Nicopolis: A symbol of the Roman Empire

This triumph marked the end of the Roman Republic and the dawn of the Imperial era, ushering in a long period of stability and peace across the Roman Empire (known as the Pax Romana).

The city’s location, near both the Ambracian Gulf and the Ionian Sea, offered great strategic, administrative and economic advantages. Its creation was achieved through the relocation of populations from cities and settlements across Epirus and neighboring regions, combined with Roman colonists.

The Roman city was adorned with impressive public buildings – a theater, an odeon, nymphaea, baths and more. Even in their ruined state today, they impress visitors with their architectural scale and decorative richness. Nicopolis also drew important figures, such as Emperor Hadrian and the Stoic philosopher Epictetus, who taught here and established a philosophical school.

With the rise of Christianity and the impact of barbarian invasions, the city’s character changed significantly. New religious buildings – basilicas with magnificent mosaic floors – became the focus of religious, social and political life during the 5th and 6th centuries. Fortifications were also rebuilt, though enclosing only a fraction of the original city.

Today, Nicopolis ranks among the largest archaeological sites in Greece. Its monuments – such as the Monument of Augustus, the Stadium, funerary structures, and luxurious villas – many of which have been restored, stand as striking witnesses to the enduring history of a city that mainly flourished during the Roman period.