Durrës, Apollonia, and the Bashtovë Castle: Exploring the Rich History

Accordion content.

We depart for the coastal city of Durrës, known in antiquity as Dyrrah. Upon arrival in the city center, we stop to admire the ruins from the Byzantine and Roman periods.

Following a short stop at the Byzantine columns, we visit the Durrës Amphitheater, dating back to the 2nd century AD. Built with Roman architecture. Remains one of the city’s most significant landmarks.

Finally, we head to the Vollga area, featuring the coastal promenade, a must-visit attraction. The surrounding restaurants and the aroma of freshly prepared seafood dishes make it even more enticing. Lunch will be enjoyed at one of the nearby restaurants.

The next stop after Berat is Apollonia, where we will visit the Temples of Apollo and Artemis. This archaeological site played a significant role in the religious and cultural life of the ancient city.

Adjacent to the Temples of Apollo and Artemis is the Monastery of Saint Mary, located in a picturesque area that attracts believers and visitors from around the world.

In the Archaeological Museum of Apollonia, we will find a wide variety of weapons and artifacts uncovered in the ancient city and its surrounding area.

After exiting the Archaeological Museum, we take a short walk to the Roman Library and Portico, two magnificent structures that highlight the cultural and architectural importance of Apollonia during the Roman period.

Within this complex of Apollonia, we find the city’s small theater, which demonstrates Apollonia’s dedication to culture and art, along with the adaptation of Greek and Roman architectural styles.

Near the Small Odeon Theater, we find the Mosaics of Apollonia, offering a visual journey into the ancient world.

Encircling these attractions, we find ourselves surrounded by walls that, in present times, are partially covered by erosion.

After visiting the ancient ruins of Apollonia, we head to Bashtova Castle, located not far from Apollonia. The uniqueness of this castle is that it is the only castle in the Balkans built in a plain.