We all know some or several ancient cities of Albania. Some are more and others less famous for their history and what happened there. There is also an ancient city that many may not know so well and ignore a detail of its history. It is Hadrianopolis and one of the most ancient city in Albania. Hadrianopolis has an extraordinary history in antiquity, and today one can see what is left there. You can get to know it up close if you are in this tourist area of ​​Gjirokaster, any time of the year.

This valuable archaeological remnant of the Roman period, located only a few kilometers from Gjirokastra. A settlement existed here from the late Classical or Hellenistic period originally inhabited by the tribe of the Chaonians. In the 2nd century it was re-founded by the Emperor Hadrian and was named Hadrianopolis. This occurred after the burning and destruction of Antigonea. It was situated on the road halfway between Apollonia to Nicopolis.

The excavated area is small and the main point of interest is the theatre which was designed in typical Roman fashion. The theatre is surrounded by semi-circular stairs made of stone that could sit hundreds of spectators as well as small, protective walls. The site includes another large building which is thought to have been a bath complex with changing rooms.