Overview:

The Ruins of Antigonea is an archaeological site located in the city of Gjirokastër in southern Albania. The remains of the once flourishing Roman city date back to the year 168 BC and are believed to have been founded by King Antigonus I. Archaeologists believe that the ruins once housed a fortress, an amphitheatre, a port and a vast marketplace. The ruins were partially destroyed by an earthquake in the early 17th century but remain remarkably well-preserved to this day. The site is now a popular tourist attraction in Gjirokastër, offering visitors a glimpse into the ancient history of the region. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Albania
Prominent Features:

, the ruins of Antigonea are a well-preserved archaeological site of historic importance. It is located near the city of Gjirokastër in southeastern Albania, about three kilometers north of the village of Vrina. The ruins of Antigonea cover over 12 hectares of land and feature a large central plaza, a large amphitheater, and a large number of other ruins including temples, towers, walls, and tombs. The site dates back to the 3rd century BCE when it was founded by the great Macedonian ruler, King Antigonus. It was later inhabited by a number of city-states, including Illyrians, Dardanians, and Celts. The ruins of Antigonea are a popular tourist destination due to their historical significance and their spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The site is often used as a backdrop for festivals such as the Gjirokastër Summer Festival and regularly hosts music and theatre performances. In 2016, it was added to UNESCO’s tentative list for World Heritage Site status. As a result, it is now managed by a team of 20 archaeologists. Visitors to the site can explore its ruins, and learn more about its history and its archaeological importance. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Albania.

History:

The ruins of Antigonea are located in the south-eastern region of Albania, in the city of Gjirokaster. Antigonea was founded in the year 295 BC, by Antigonus I Monophthalmus, one of Alexander the Great's generals. Evidence suggests that the city was initially populated by the Illyrian tribe known as the Taulantians, and was an important trading hub for the region, connecting the Adriatic and Aegean sea coasts. In 168 BC, during the Third Macedonian War, the city was destroyed by the Romans, and the city was abandoned. The ruins of Antigonea remain today, and the site is one of Gjirokaster's most important attractions. The ruins include the remains of an acropolis, theatre, bouleuterion, and temples to Zeus and Poseidon. The walls of the acropolis are still visible, as are the foundations of a number of houses, palaces, and public buildings. The city also included an array of tombs and Thermae, which are now lost. The ruins of Antigonea are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are part of the UNESCO-recognized Historical and Environmental # of Butrint Cultural Landscape. Visit one of the famous monuments of Albania with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Antigonea is believed to be the birthplace of famous Albanian musician and political figure Zana Bytyqi. 2. The ruins of Antigonea are located in an incredible natural setting on top of a mountain ridge near the town of Gjirokastër. 3. The site dates back to the 3rd century BCE, when it was founded by King Lysimachus. 4. The ruins are organized around two areas: an acropolis and a lower city. 5. Archaeological excavations have revealed a number of impressive structures, including a basilica, an amphitheater, a round temple, a fortified gate, and an archway. 6. Antigonea was destroyed by the Romans in 168 BCE. 7. The ruins were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. One of the historical monuments of Albania, it tells the story of a bygone era