A Thorough Guide to the Unique Apollonia Festival
Taking place in the ancient city of Fier, the Apollonia Festival celebrates Albania’s rich and unique cultural heritage with its harmonious blend of Greek and Roman influences.
Out of all the places in Albania,
Apollonia
is the best choice to host this festival, as it’s among the most
historical and important cities of the Mediterranean world and a significant economic and trading center that’s also known for its
beautiful architecture.
In this article, we’ll walk you through all you need to know about this
traditional and authentic festival, so you can have an unforgettable experience!
Let’s jump right into it!
Setting and Location of Apollonia Festival
As we previously mentioned, the Apollonia Festival is held in one of the most historic cities in Albania, Fier, inviting every culture and history lover to participate in the festivities. The venues of the festival include the ancient theater, where musical and theatrical performances take place, the Odeon, the Temple of Apollo, and the Archaeological Museum.
The Apollonia Festival location enhances the festival vibe in many ways, providing a
sense of timelessness,
cultural depth, and
inspiration for artists, standing out from other festivals in Albania.
Music and Performances at Apollonia Festival
The Apollonia Festival features numerous events, such as theatrical performances and art exhibitions. During the theatrical performances, you’ll get to see creative recreations of old stories from Greek and Roman history, which allow every visitor to enjoy the beauty of classical theater.
Next are the art exhibitions that allow local and international artists to
showcase their works inspired by the ancient city and its long history. Here, you’re guaranteed to see incredible
paintings,
drawings, and
sculptures.
What to Do at the Apollonia Festival
Here are some extra activities you can do while at the festival:
#1. Archaeological Tours
If you’re interested in learning more about Apollonia and its surroundings, you can take part in a guided tour through the city ruins, led by history experts. You’ll hear how the city flourished during the fourth century AD as an important trade center, and how the Roman and Greek rules changed the area’s culture and way of life.
Apollonia is often compared to the archaeological site of Agrigento in southern Italy, both being cities founded by Greek colonists during the sixth century BC. They also have architectural features in common, like Doric temples, the style of public buildings, and mosaic pavements.
#2. Enjoy a Scenic Walk Along the Archaeological Park of Apollonia
One of the emblems of antiquity in Albania, the Archaeological Park of Apollonia, is a must-visit during your holiday in Albania. As soon as you step into the park, you’ll feel like you’ve taken a trip back in time, marveling at the lush greenery, the Arch of Triumph, the Sanctuary, and the stairs of the beautiful Odeon.
You can also see the
Monastery
and
Church of St. Mary, which are close to the park.
#3. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Apollonia
Opened back in 1958, the Archaeological Museum of Apollonia is located in a 14th-century monastery, containing countless artifacts and remnants from the Illyrian, Greek, and Roman eras.
It’s one of the most popular
Albanian tourist attractions, expanding across two floors and seven wings, with broad corridors filled with
statues
and
paintings
of mythical creatures. You’ll also get to see some unique
jewelry
and
armor showcasing the advanced metalworking techniques from Apollonia’s bronze era.
Then, on the upper floor, you’ll get to learn about
later antiquity, including the rule of the Roman Empire over Apollonia.
You can access the museum by passing through the village of
Pojan, either by car or bus. From
May
to October 15th, the museum is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and from
October 16th
until the end of
April,
it’s open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Where to Stay during the Apollonia Festival
Being located in a pretty
remote area
far from the city center, there aren’t many accommodation options directly near the festival site. Here are the closest options:
List of Services
-
#1. Vila KasemiList Item 1
Located about a 15-minute drive from the Apollonia Archaeological Park, Vila Kasemi offers great accommodation, with a beautiful garden and nice views from the balconies. The rooms are kept clean and well-organized, with every amenity you might need.
Each room has air conditioning, along with free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms. You’ll also get to enjoy a delicious Italian breakfast every morning. A standard double room at Vila Kasemi costs about €35 per night.
-
#2. Prince Hotel FierList Item 2
Siempre Viva is also situated next to Dhërmi Beach, and it’s a peaceful guesthouse with very welcoming hosts who always make sure their clients are satisfied. The rooms are comfortable and chic, providing every amenity you might need for an enjoyable stay. There’s also a terrace, with a seating area and flowers in every corner.
If you choose to stay in a four-star hotel, you’ll be paying €496 for accommodation and the festival ticket.
-
#3. Aulona HotelList Item 3
Another charming hotel in Fier, Aulona Hotel, offers three-star accommodation with a restaurant, free parking, and a bar. The rooms are simple but elegant, providing everything you might need, like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a safety deposit box, and a flat-screen TV.
At Aulona Hotel, you can book a double room for only €38 per night.
Why Go to the Apollonia Festival
If you’re still wondering why you should go to the Apollonia Festival when visiting Albania, here are a few excellent reasons:
- Historical Significance. As we previously mentioned, Apollonia is an ancient city with a long history dating back centuries. The visitors will get the chance to explore the ruins of the old city, learning more about it.
- Diverse Performances. Apollonia Festival includes a variety of events, such as musical and theatrical performances, all paying tribute to ancient times.
- Scenic Location. Organized in the picturesque and scenic countryside, the festival site is filled with lush greenery and surrounded by beautiful forests, encouraging tourists to visit and explore the vibrant countryside of Pojan, an absolute Albanian must-see!
- Friendly Atmosphere. Albanian people are known for their hospitality to tourists, making every visitor feel welcome and at home. It won’t be any different at the festival, with every local encouraging you to socialize and learn more about the country’s history.
Apollonia Festival FAQ
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