The remains of the ancient city of Phoenice are situated on a hill above the Drino valley and represent one of the most important archaeological sites in southern Albania. Once the capital of Epirus (3rd–2nd century BC), it was for centuries a political and commercial center of the region — Polybius described Phoenice as 'the strongest and wealthiest city in Epirus'. Today visitors can explore the remains of city walls, a Hellenistic theater, temples dedicated to Greek gods, and early Christian basilicas. Unlike Butrint, which receives tens of thousands of visitors per year, Phoenice attracts considerably fewer — walking among the ruins often gives the feeling that you have the entire site to yourself. Open during the day, nominal entrance ticket. Located approximately 20 km from Saranda (bus to Delvina, then a local taxi or 30 min on foot).
