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How many cities can you name, which are built in the name of love?
Whose walls have been built to honor the name of a girl who had won the heart of a king?
You may have heard something alike, but none like the beautiful story of Antigonea, the city that rose from love and was destroyed by hatred.
This is the story that has traveled through the centuries and today, traces of time remind us. Antigonea was an ancient school town in the 3rd century b.c. It was a short-lived city that lasted about 150 years.
The founding of the city is associated with one of the most famous names of antiquity, King Pyrrhus of Epirus. When he was 17 years old after King Pyrrhus and ousted from the throne after an uprising against him, he went into the service of King Demeter of Macedonia, and later in honor of the Ptolemaic kingdom of Egypt. He attracted the attention of the queen of Egypt Berenice, who has been selected among other princes to marry Antigone, one of the royal couple’s daughters.
With the support of his wife Antigone, Pyrrhus raised money, army and returned to Epirus retaining the royal throne. Due to the gratitude to his mother-in-law Berenice and his wife Antigone, Pyrrhus rushed to establish two towns by their name: Berenica and Antigonea. The first was in Thesprotia, while Antigonea in Antitani. Antigonea was founded in 295 b.c. The city became a proper center, due to the control of the Drinos valley which is called the Straits of Antigonia.
But now that so much time has passed, and the centuries have covered the ruins with dust and oblivion, can we find traces of this city? In fact, the first excavations in the city were undertaken on the eve of the First World War. In the ancient city, several dwellings of different types were discovered, which belonged to the commercial-craft strata of the city. Rich archaeological findings testify to the high degree of culture and well-being of the city. The Paleo-Christian Church of Antigonea is a triangular-shaped church of the V-VI century. It is distinguished by the mosaic discovered in it, which depicts a figure with a human body and a dog’s head. This figure is identified with St. Christopher and is the oldest example of this iconographic representation.
The city survived less than 2 centuries, burned within a night by the order of the Roman general Aemilius Paulus, as revenge against Pyrrhys. The ancient city of Antigonea is situated between two peaks connected by a narrow pass. The peak in the northern part is 700 m high above sea level and has a small field on top, while the southern peak is 600 m high and is formed by a series of folded terraces.
What distinguishes Antigoneia from most other ancient cities is its quadrangular and quite modern urban plan. The ancient city was surrounded by solid walls about 4000 m in length, protecting the city on all sides. The highest hill is connected with the settlement by a 4 m wide corridor between two parallel walls. The latter are 3.50 m thick and up to 3 m high. The fortifying walls and those of majority of houses discovered until now are made of huge and medium size blocks of lime stones extracted from the mountain of Lunxhëria. The surface area of the city, within and outside fortified walls, is estimated to be about 60 ha, while the Archaeological Park has a total surface area of 90 ha.
According to archaeologists and experts of antiquity, the Drinos valley in Gjirokastra district has an extremely high number of archaeological sites and ancient settlements. Thus far, about 20 sites have been identified, including ancient cities and fortifications, monumental tombs, ancient temples, and theaters. They stretch from the extreme south of the valley on the frontier with Greece, up to Lekël in the northern part of the valley. In this context Antigoneia is undoubtedly the main center of the area’s ancient civilization.
Antigoneia is situated at a dominant point on the hill of Jerma, southwest of the village Saraqinishtë, 14 km by road from the city of Gjirokastra. The park is open every day from 8.00-16.00. The ticket is 200 ALL. During the National Festive days, the entrance is free.
If you want to learn more about this tourist attraction, in addition to having to visit the city, you can take part in the Argjiro folk festival, where historians and scholars of local culture will explain more about Antigonea. The festival usually takes place in September and starts from Gjirokastra, to be further distributed in the suburbs.
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Dhermi Beach Stunning Turquoise Waters and Pristine White Pebbles
Dhermi Beach, a jewel on the Albanian Riviera, boasts some of the clearest turquoise waters and pristine white pebbles you’ll ever see. Nestled between towering cliffs, this beach offers breathtaking views and a peaceful ambiance that’s perfect for unwinding. Besides lounging on the beach, you can explore the nearby village of Dhermi, known for its traditional stone houses and delightful local cuisine. The mix of natural beauty and cultural charm makes Dhermi Beach a top destination on the Ionian coast.
Adventure Awaits for you in Dhermi
For those who love a bit of adventure, Dhermi Beach has plenty to offer. You can try jet skiing, paddleboarding, or snorkeling to see the vibrant marine life up close. As the sun sets, Dhermi transforms with its lively nightlife. Beach clubs and open-air venues come alive with music, making it a fantastic spot for a night out. Whether you’re looking to relax or have some fun, Dhermi Beach has something for everyone.
Accommodation Options in Dhermi
When it comes to places to stay, Dhermi has a wide range of options. Luxurious hotels like the Black Diamond Hotel offer stunning sea views and top-notch amenities. For a more intimate experience, consider staying at a cozy guesthouse where you can enjoy warm hospitality and connect with local culture. Whatever your preference, Dhermi has the perfect accommodation to make your stay memorable.
Dhermi’s Cultural Heritage
A visit to Dhermi isn’t complete without exploring its cultural heritage. The Church of Saint Mary, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the area’s history. Walking through Dhermi village, you’ll find traditional stone houses and friendly locals who are always happy to share their stories. The blend of history and hospitality adds depth to your beachside retreat.
Culinary Delights in Dhermi Beach
Dhermi’s culinary scene is another highlight. Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Albanian dishes at beachside restaurants. The locally sourced ingredients, including olive oil produced in the region, make for a delicious dining experience. Imagine savoring these flavors while watching the sunset over the Ionian Sea – it’s truly unforgettable.
Festivals and Events Held in Dhermi
Festivals are a big part of the Dhermi experience, with events like the Kala Festival drawing crowds from all over. This summer music festival turns the beach into a vibrant party scene with live performances and DJ sets. It’s a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Dhermi while experiencing Albania’s growing cultural scene.
Nature and Hiking in and around Dhermi Beach
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore around Dhermi. Hiking trails through olive groves and hills offer stunning views and the chance to discover natural wonders like the Pirates’ Cave. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just enjoy a leisurely walk, the landscapes around Dhermi will leave you in awe.
Wellness Activities you can do in Dhermi
Dhermi’s serene environment is perfect for wellness activities like yoga and meditation. Many hotels offer spa services, so you can indulge in massages and treatments while soaking in the calming coastal atmosphere. These activities enhance the relaxing experience of a visit to Dhermi Beach.
A Photographer’s Paradise
For photographers, Dhermi Beach is a paradise. The combination of turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant sunsets creates endless opportunities for stunning photos. Whether you’re a professional or just love taking pictures, the beauty of Dhermi Beach will inspire you.
Plan Your Visit To Dhermi
To plan your perfect trip to Dhermi Beach, check out guides on the Top 10 Things to Do in Dhermi and Top 15 Hotels in Dhermi on Albania360. These resources will help you make the most of your visit to this beautiful part of Albania. -
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Welcome to the Visit Albania podcast powered by Albania360 .com. I'm your host, Klajdi Hena, here to guide you through the best travel experience Albania has to offer. Today we're highlighting a unique and charming accommodation option in the heart of Korca Situated in a historic building, old bazaar rooms offer a delightful stay in Korca with a cozy bar and stunning views of the city.
Old bazaar rooms is conveniently located just meters from the famous Korca Old Bazaar, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. Old Bazaar rooms feature spacious family rooms and outdoor fireplace, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere for all guests. Each unit at the guest house includes a comfortable seating area and a private bathroom equipped with a walk -in shower and slippers. Enjoy complimentary Wi -Fi in all rooms. And some rooms even offer a private terrace for an extra touch of luxury.
Guests can unwind in the shared lounge area, perfect for relaxing with a drink after a day of sightseeing in Korca. Discover the charm of Korca and enjoy a memorable stay at old bazaar rooms.
Ready to explore more? Visit albania360 .com to discover, explore and plan your perfect Albanian vacation.
At Albania360 .com you'll find detailed information about all bazaar rooms and many other fantastic destinations across Albania. Start your adventure today and make your dream vacation a reality. Albania360 .com Don't visit Albania without it!
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Hello and welcome to Visit Albania podcast by Albania 360. I am your host, Klajdi Hena And today we're going to talk about discovering Albania on a budget with low cost car rentals with rentfromlocals .com. This service allows you to explore more, spend less and travel with ease in Albania's largest cities and airports.If you're planning a trip to Albania and looking for an affordable way to explore its vibrant cities and stunning landscapes, look no further. RentFromLocals .com is here to make your travel experience in Albania smooth, convenient, and budget friendly. At RentFromLocals .com, they focus on the importance of finding the best rates for car rentals in Albania. They offer competitive rates starting from just 8.99 Euros per day. Whether you're visiting Tirana, Saranda, Durres, Vlore, Shkoder, Kukes or just need a car near the airports in Rinas or Kukes, you are covered with this service. Finding the best rates for car rentals in Albania is important for several reasons. First of all, it allows you to save money that you can use for other experiences during your trip. Secondly, an affordable rate gives you greater freedom of movement and allows you to explore more places during your stay in Albania. And finally, let's admit it, you feel much better when you feel like you've gotten a good deal, right? Okay, so why choose rentfromlocals .com? First reason is local expertise. The team consists of locals who know Albania inside and out. They provide you with insider tips and recommendations to make your tripSecond is convenience. Booking with rentfromlocals .com is easy and convenient. With just a few clicks you can secure your rental car and focus on planning the rest of your trip which you can easily do with Albania 360. Third reason is a wide range of vehicles. Whether you're traveling solo with a family or in a group they have a diverse fleet of vehicles to your needs. From compact cars to spacious SUVs they have it all. And fourth but not least is flexible options. They offer flexible rental options including daily, weekly and monthly rentals so you can choose the best option that best fits your travel plans. To book your rental you can go to rentfromlocals .comSo don't let transportation constraints hold you back from exploring all that Albania has to offer. One thing to keep in mind is Albania is a small country, but the terrain is mountainous. And another issue is the public transportation isn't that great in Albania yet, at least. So by having a car at your disposal, you can travel everywhere you'd like. This is a service that is recommended by Albania 360. So if you'd like to book your next car, you can go to albania360 .com and we have a bunch of places where we're promoting rentfromlocals .com. You can just click on that and you'll save tens and even hundreds of euros. That's all we have for today. We'll see you on the next podcast.
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Hello everyone, my name is Klajdi Hena. I am your host for Visit Albania Podcast powered by albania360 .com. Today we are going to talk about the platform statistics for June 2024 for albania360 .com. June was surely a busy month for Albania, especially for tourism. More than a million people came to the Mother Teresa airport in Tirana not to count the other points of entry into the country. And today we're excited to share some platform statistics for this last month and we hope you can enjoy. And the first one we're going to start with is the 10 most booked places on Albania 360. These are bookings that happen through multiple channels on our platform, whether it's our website social media accounts. Please note that the following rankings are in no way in any particular order.The first first we have is the Cocja Boutique Hotel in Shkoder It provides accommodation with a garden, free parking, private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. Each room is fitted with a desk and a flat-screen -frame TV and certain rooms at the hotel have a balcony. And you'll also have a fridge inside the rooms. Coming up, it's Hotel and Spa Butrinti in Sarande, which provides accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center and a terrace. Coming up is Guest House Prrockaj in Theth. Boasting mountain views, Guest House Prrockaj Theth offers accommodation with patio around 3 .2 kilometers from Theth National Park. Next up we have Life Gallery Hotel in Korca. Opened in May 2011 and reopened after renovation in July of 2023. In the historic part of Korca, the Life Gallery Hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with free Wi -Fi and LCD smart TVs as well as two locally popular bars with different ambiances. Next up we have IlioBoutique Hotel in Ksamil Set in Ksamil, 300 meters from Ksamil Beach, Ilio Boutique Hotel offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, terrace and a restaurant.Next up we have Kodiket Guesthouse in Berat. Located in the center, in close proximity to UNESCO protected Old Town of Berat, Kodiket Inn is surrounded with a garden and features a terrace and offers air -conditioned rooms with free Wi -Fi access.Located in Tirana, 700 meters from Skanderbeg Square,Hotel Teatro City Center provides accommodation with a terrace, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar. Next up we have Mervin Hotel in Kruja. Set in Kruja, Mervin Hotel offers accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking, a terrace and a bar.Next up we have Hotel Chicago in Shkoder. It provides accommodation with a fitness center, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. Next up we have Hotel Villa Pascucci in Durres. Set in Durres, Hotel Villa Pascucci offers accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free parking, private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. These were the top 10 most booked places in June 2024 on our platforms. And next up, we have the most searched terms on Albania 360.These are just the top 10. We have the city of Fier, Shpella e Pellumbave or Pigeon's Cave, Dermi Beach, Berat Castle, Durres Beach, Lezhe Vlore Beach, Radhime Beach, Himare Beach and Tepelene.And we have the most users by country. These are in order. It's Albania, USA, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, North Macedonia, Netherlands, Poland, Greece, and Canada. And we also have the top 10 most read articles on albania360 .com, precisely on our website. Most read is The 10 best beaches near Durres to enjoy this summer. Second one is a guide to the Outdoor swimming pools and water parks near Tirana. Third one is 10 best beaches near Vlore to enjoy this summer. Fourth one is 10 best beaches near Himare accessible by car or boat.Then we have Experience Euro 2024 Live at the Fan Zone at Skanderbeg Square in Tirana. Next up we have Top 10 Things to do in Tepelene Next up we have Top 10 Things to do in Ksamil, Albania. Next up we have Top 7 Party Beaches in Albania, the Summer Party Guide. Then we have the 11 Islands of Albania and why you should visit them. And last but not least is the 10 Best Beaches near Sarande to enjoy in 2024. So these were our platform statistics. If you want to read the articles, we have a link on albania360 .com. Just go there and search for statistics, June, 2024, and you will be able to see the 10 most booked places, which you can book directly from the link. We also have the search, most searched terms and most used by country. And also at the end, we have most read articles, which you can click and read all of them. That's all we have for today. If you want to go to albania360 .com, you can find accommodations, eats, drinks. It's a full tour guide that you can explore and plan your Albania vacation.
