Byzantine Forum | Durres

The Byzantine Forum in Durrës (known in antiquity as Dyrrhachium) is a significant archaeological site, offering insights into the Roman and Byzantine periods of the city. Durrës, strategically located on the Adriatic coast, was a major port and trading hub during both the Roman and Byzantine empires, and the Byzantine Forum stands as a testament to the city’s importance during this time.

1. Overview

• Location: Located in the central area of Durrës, close to the modern city center and the harbor.
• Time Period: The forum dates back to the Byzantine period, around the 5th-6th centuries AD, though it was built on the foundations of earlier Roman structures.
• Significance: The forum was a center of public life in Byzantine Dyrrhachium, where citizens gathered for administrative, political, and social purposes.

2. Historical Background

Durrës has been a key site for many ancient civilizations, including the Illyrians, Romans, and Byzantines. The Byzantine Forum was established when the city was part of the Eastern Roman Empire and served as the capital of the Province of Illyricum.

2.1 Roman Beginnings

• Durrës was originally an important Roman colony and trading port. As part of the Roman Empire, the city had a forum and other public buildings, which were later adapted by the Byzantines after the fall of the Western Roman Empire.

2.2 Byzantine Development

• In the 5th century, the Byzantine Empire took control of the area, and the city of Durrës became an important military and trade hub in the region.
• The Byzantine Forum was constructed as part of the city’s revitalization. It likely served as a central gathering place for administrative activities, public speeches, and market exchanges.

2.3 The Role of the Forum

• The forum was the heart of the city’s political, social, and economic activities.
• It would have been surrounded by important government buildings, temples, and possibly basilicas, typical of Byzantine civic planning.

3. Archaeological Features

Today, much of the Byzantine Forum is in ruins, but several elements can still be observed by visitors.

3.1 Forum Layout

• The forum was typically a large open space, bordered by columns, porticoes, and gathering areas.
• Marble paving stones and ancient columns remain, showcasing the impressive scale of the forum.

3.2 Public Buildings and Structures

• Basilica remains: Some of the remains of a basilica (Christian church) have been found near the forum, reflecting the transition of the city from paganism to Christianity during the Byzantine period.
• Mosaics: Some intricate mosaics from the Byzantine era have been uncovered, which may have adorned the floors of the forum or surrounding buildings.

3.3 Column Bases and Ruins

• Several column bases and wall sections still stand, offering a glimpse into the architecture of the forum.
• The forum's boundaries can still be traced, giving an idea of the forum’s original size.

4. Visitor Experience

The Byzantine Forum is one of the important historical sites in Durrës, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the city’s past and its role in the Byzantine Empire.

4.1 Archaeological Exploration

• Visitors can walk through the ruins of the forum and get a sense of its original layout, as well as view the column bases, mosaics, and other remnants.
• Information boards provide historical context for the site, explaining the significance of various structures and their role in Byzantine society.

4.2 Nearby Attractions

• The Durrës Archaeological Museum houses many artifacts discovered at the forum, including pottery, coins, and other everyday items that reflect life during the Roman and Byzantine periods.
• The Durrës Amphitheater is another nearby site that complements the Byzantine Forum, as it showcases the Roman influence on the city’s architecture and public life.

4.3 Guided Tours

• Guided tours are available, offering insights into the history of the forum, its construction, and its role in Byzantine Durrës. Knowledgeable guides explain the significance of the forum in relation to the city's history.

5. Practical Information

How to Get There

• By Car: Durrës is easily accessible by car from Tirana, about a 45-minute drive. The forum is located within the city center and is easily reachable by foot or local transportation.
• On Foot: The forum is located near other significant attractions like the Durrës Amphitheater and Durrës Castle, making it part of a historical circuit within the city.

Opening Hours

• The site is typically open daily, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though the hours may vary seasonally.

Entry Fees

• There is usually a modest entry fee, typically ranging from 200–300 ALL (~2–3 EUR), with additional fees for guided tours.

6. Tips for Visitors

1. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The site involves walking through uneven terrain, so wear sturdy footwear.
2. Combine with Other Sites: Pair your visit to the Byzantine Forum with nearby attractions like the Durrës Archaeological Museum and Durrës Amphitheater for a comprehensive historical tour of the city.
3. Photography: The ruins provide great opportunities for photography, especially the remaining columns and mosaics.

7. Why Visit the Byzantine Forum?

• Historical Significance: The Byzantine Forum offers a rare opportunity to explore the cultural and political heart of Byzantine Durrës, which played a significant role in the region during the early Middle Ages.
• Architectural Remains: The site features impressive remnants of Byzantine and Roman architecture, including columns, mosaics, and parts of a basilica.
• Cultural Context: The forum is a valuable site for understanding the transition from Roman to Byzantine rule in the region and the cultural transformation that followed.

8. Conclusion

The Byzantine Forum is an essential historical site for anyone interested in the rich, multi-layered past of Durrës. It provides visitors with a glimpse into the Byzantine period of the city’s history and its role as a major center in the Eastern Roman Empire. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, the forum offers a fascinating look at ancient urban life and architecture.