Apollonia (Apolonia) is one of the most important Greek archaeological sites in Albania, set on a gentle hill with views over the coastal plain near Fier. Founded in the 7th century BC by Greek colonists from Corinth and Corcyra, it grew into a prosperous city and centre of learning — the Roman emperor Augustus sent his nephew Octavian (later Augustus Caesar) to study here.
The site is not on the scale of Butrint, but it is attractive and well-presented. The outstanding feature is the portico of the Bouleuterion (council house), whose columns still stand in the landscape. The on-site museum houses finds from the excavations including sculpture, coins, and ceramics. The Monastery of Shën Meri (St Mary), which incorporates a 13th-century Byzantine church within its walls, adds another historical layer to the site.
Apollonia makes a natural combination with a visit to the nearby Monastery of Ardenica and can be reached from Fier or as a day trip from Berat.