Albania - The Ancient City of Apollonia

"The ancient city of Apollonia is situated in southwestern Albania, about 13 miles from the city of Fier. The fascinating landscape of the archeological park, which has been preserved in an exceptionally intact condition, comprises a successful combination between the beauty of monuments and nature, attractive through its long history, in an atmosphere of relaxation and meditation. Its foundation took place immediately after the foundation of Epidamnus – Dyrrachium and quickly became one of the most eminent cities of the Adriatic basin, which was mentioned more frequently from the other 30 (thirty) cities bearing the same name during Antiquity. The city lay in the territory of the political communion of the Taulantii and was broadly known as Apollonia of Illyria. According to the tradition it was founded during the first half of the 6th century BC by Greek colonist from Corfu and Corinth, led by Gylax, which named the city after his name (Gylakeia). After its quick establishment the city changed its name to Apollonia, according to the powerful divinity Apollo. It stands on a hilly plateau from where expands the fertile plain of Musacchia with the Adriatic Sea and the hills of Mallakastra. The ruins of Apollonia are discovered in the beginning of the 19th century."

Source: UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List

The amphitheatre of Apolonia, Albania. Thanks to Ron of Sweden who was visiting Albania. Postmarked June 8, 2021 and arrived in Penang island on July 1, 2021.

Albania - The Amphitheatre of Durres

"It is the largest and most important Balkan amphitheater built in the early I sc. which contains remarkable functional architectural values ​​and constructive, the unique found in Albania. Systematic excavations began in 1966 and now e jusq'á been updated in the middle of the monument. The amphitheater is located in the center of the city, based on the cavea western slope of the hill and the part opposite stands on level ground. The amphitheater is presented in the form of an ellipse diameter 136 m. The height of the cavea starting from the base, is 20 m. The capacity of the stands was 15000 to 20000 spectators. These steps were covered with white tiles. The gladiators fought in the arena. On the constructive side, the cavea of the amphitheater was based on a system of stone arches that surrounded the whole object. The size and the technical realization of this amphitheater shows a development of the city of Durres in the early centuries of our era. After having suffered the social and economic changes after the IV sc the Durres amphitheater ceased to function as such. In one of his galleries were built in the X sc. a Byzantine chapel, whose walls were decorated with mosaics representing different figures." Source: UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List

View of Durres Amphitheatre of Albania. Thanks to Darina of USA.