NICOPOLIS ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE

Nicopolis, whose name means "City of Victory", was founded by Octavian Augustus just after his decisive victory over the fleet of Mark Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium in 31 B.C. It was from the hill on which the city was built that Octavian directed his troops during the battle. Nicopolis is very large. For the moment, it's better known for its basilicas than for its ancient site. Today, it lends its theater to a summer festival. It was in Nicopolis that the famous philosopher Epictetus taught his philosophy, Stoicism, to his followers until 125 AD. Before visiting the beautiful site museum (2.2 km to the south), take a look at the Doumetios Basilica. After visiting the museum, take the small path a few metres past the parking lot and pass under the ramparts to discover the Odeon. You can then head for the fountain house, a little further on. Turn left after the Odéon, then right. There's a very large nympheum with walls filled with well-preserved niches. These alcoves must have contained statues. On the way back to the main road, you can see the Alkyson basilica, a ^6th-century cathedral. Heading towards Arta, you'll see the theater, a little further along on the left. Follow the signs to the monument to Augustus. Finally, to the left of the theater, one of the poorly preserved entrances to the stadium. This was the venue for the Actia.