Apollonia + Ardenica Monastery Tour

On this excursion to Apollonia from Berat, we'll discover a prominent archaeological site in Albania and the Byzantine monastery of Ardenica.

Apollonia + Ardenica Monastery Tour

We will meet at the Mangalemi Hotel in Berat and begin our excursion to Apollonia and the Ardenica Monastery. The trip includes scenic views, history, and archaeological exploration.

After a 1 hour and 15 minutes drive, we will arrive at the Archaeological Park of Apollonia, where we'll participate in a guided tour. This site, founded in 588 BC by Greek settlers, is referred to as Little Athens.

The tour includes visits to the Hellenistic theatre, triumphal arch, agora, colonnade, and gymnasium. Additional sights include the monument of Agonothetes, Odeon, library, and villas with mosaic floors.

After exploring the remains, we will have a lunch break before proceeding to the next stop, the Monastery of Ardenica.

At this site, built in 1282 by Byzantine emperor Andronicus, we will visit the interior, including the church of St. Mary, the hermitage of St. Triadhe, and the mill. This is one of the most important historical and religious monuments in Albania.

Following eight hours of activity, we will return to Berat.