Apollonia Archaeological Park Albania – Ancient History in Fier Verified listing

🏛️ Apollonia Archaeological Park Albania – Ancient Beauty in the Heart of Albania

Apollonia Archaeological Park Albania is one of the most important ancient sites in the Balkans, located just outside the city of Fier, in central Albania. Founded in the 6th century BC by Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth, Apollonia was a thriving city of the ancient world, dedicated to the god Apollo. Today, it stands as a remarkable destination for history lovers, archaeology enthusiasts, and cultural travelers.

🏛️ A Glimpse Into History of Apollonia Archaeological Park Albania

At its peak, Apollonia was a major cultural and commercial center, with over 60,000 inhabitants. The city held a strategic position on the Via Egnatia, the Roman road that connected the Adriatic to Byzantium. It attracted philosophers, artists, and even Roman emperors—Octavian Augustus studied here before becoming Caesar.

Today, the site contains impressive ruins such as:

• The grand Bouleuterion (council house)
• The ancient theater
• The Arch of Triumph
• Roman villas with mosaic floors
• The monastery of St. Mary, built in the 13th century and turned into a museum

The surrounding landscape adds to the park’s beauty, with gentle hills, olive groves, and panoramic views over the Adriatic Plain.

📍 How to Get at Apollonia Archaeological Park Albania

The park is located just 12 km from Fier, and about 2 hours from Tirana. The roads are accessible by car, and guided tours are available from nearby cities. On-site parking is available near the entrance.

🎟️ Tickets & Visiting Info

• Opening Hours: Daily, 09:00 – 19:00 (summer), until 17:00 (winter)
• Entrance Fee: 400 ALL (approx. €4) for adults
• Free for children under 12 & students with ID

📸 What to See & Do at Apollonia Archaeological Park Albania

• Walk among ancient ruins and feel the essence of classical antiquity
• Visit the small archaeological museum inside the monastery
• Enjoy photography of ancient columns, statues, and surrounding views
• Relax at the on-site café with traditional Albanian drinks and snacks
• Learn from multilingual info boards and local guides

🏨 Where to Stay Nearby

While there is no accommodation inside the park, the city of Fier offers plenty of options:

• Boutique hotels and guesthouses
• Budget accommodations
• Family-friendly apartments
• Easy access to restaurants and transportation

🍽️ Where to Eat

You can dine in traditional restaurants in Fier or enjoy a light lunch and coffee at the small café near the museum. Local dishes include:

• Byrek, fresh salads, grilled meats, and local wine or raki

🌟 Why Visit Apollonia Archaeological Park?

• It’s a UNESCO Tentative Site of global historical significance
• Offers a peaceful and educational break from the coast
• Perfect for families, solo travelers, and history buffs
• Less crowded than other ancient ruins in the Balkans