Archeology and religion in one tour- Finiq and Mesopotam from Saranda -Small group

In ancient times, the territory where Finiq is located belonged to the powerful kingdom of Epirus, a significant player in the politics and warfare of the Western Balkans. This region held considerable strategic and cultural importance, being situated at the crossroads of major trade and military routes. Over time, particularly during the Byzantine era, the city saw considerable expansion and development. The landscape of Finiq still reflects this layered history, with traces of its ancient foundations blending seamlessly with the remnants from later periods.

Historical sources mention Finiq as playing a prominent role during the Hellenistic period. In fact, it rose to political prominence as the capital of the League of Epirus, a confederation of tribes and cities united under a shared cultural and military identity. Finiq’s influence was such that the peace treaty marking the end of the First Macedonian War between Rome and Macedonia was signed there, underscoring the city’s importance in regional diplomacy. These events place Finiq among the historically significant centers of classical antiquity in the region.

Today, a visit to Finiq offers a compelling journey into the past, with a variety of archaeological remains still visible on site. Among these are the ruins of an ancient temple, believed to have played a central role in religious and civic life. Visitors can also explore the partially preserved theater, residential structures from the Hellenistic period, Roman baths indicative of urban sophistication, and a Byzantine church that stands as a testament to the city’s continued relevance through the medieval period. These remains provide a vivid picture of a city that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, yet still quietly tells its story through the stones left behind.