Named Phoinike, it has been the capital city of the Illyrian tribe of the Chaonians in Epir. The cyclopean walls of Finiq are the evidence of the acropolis of Phoenicia, as the ancient writers claim, was seven times larger than the acropolis of Athens. How is it possible?!!!
The location of Cronus, the father of Zeus, as many authors say, show the lands of Pelasgian Epirus, or two parts, Dodona and the surroundings up to the coast. It is even said that Kron's stables were in Palavli, in today's Delvina, Albania. There is also one of the most ancient Pelasgian fortifications, Phoenicia. And, if we refer to the toponymy, there is also a town called Kron-gji, that is the place of Kroni. Even 'Rheas Kolpos', pregnant with Zeus, gave birth there, in her husband's stables and not in the royal palace in Dodona.
According to the legends, Rhea did not give birth to her son in Dodona, for fear that Cronus would eat him, as the fates had predicted that her son would take over her power, but in the stables of Palavlia (village in today's Saranda) in ancient Phoenicia : "...Zeus...was born not in Dodona, in the palaces of Kronos, but in Palavli, where there was a camp of Kronos. From there he was exiled through Onhezm (ancient name of Saranda) and sent to Crete, where he grew up and...
Read moreFiniq Archaeological Park in southern Albania is a fascinating site with a rich historical legacy dating back to antiquity. Once known as Phoenice, it was an important center in the ancient world, particularly during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The city was the capital of the ancient Greek tribe of the Chaonians and later became a significant Roman settlement.
Some of the most intriguing features of the park include: Well-preserved ancient theater: This Hellenistic theater, built into a hillside, could accommodate around 4,000 spectators and provides insight into the cultural importance of the city in ancient times. City walls and fortifications: Massive stone walls encircle the ancient city, offering evidence of its strategic importance and defensive capabilities. Byzantine basilicas and Roman ruins: Scattered across the site are remnants of early Christian churches and Roman-era structures, reflecting the city's long and varied history. Panoramic views: Situated on a hill, the site offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, adding to the park’s allure.
Finiq's archaeological richness provides a unique window into ancient civilizations and their interactions...
Read more300LEK pp, not really worth it. Very small, mostly a pile of scattered rock, concrete, overgrown. Could use a lot more excavation to reveal details and scale. The theater is impressive, sitting in a big natural bowl of hill, great view of valley. Indeed the view is best part of the visit. Also, they have assorted benches around to relax and enjoy the view (more would be nice). Drive up is a bit sketchy, narrow, windy, debris, rockfalls, dogs, sheep. In bad weather could be scary. The paths on the site are wild, just grass, weeds and small shrubs. Some signage, not much, mostly weather beaten.
Nice guy at entrance building (no WC, just portables), that's it. Small parking lot, will get crowded in summer. Offseason, nobody there. ...
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