Guided visit of The Archeological Site of Bylis

The ancient city of Bylis is strategically situated on the right side of the Ballsh-Tepelenë national road, only 35 kilometers from Fier, 10 kilometers from Ballsh, and just 1.5 kilometers from the center of Hekal village. Founded in the early 4th century BC, Bylis quickly became a prominent urban center equipped with impressive infrastructure. The city was fortified with a massive surrounding wall stretching 2.2 kilometers in length, 3.5 meters in width, and rising to a height of up to 9 meters, enclosing a surface area of 30 hectares. This fortification marked Bylis as a significant defensive and administrative center of the region.

Bylis is considered one of the most important representatives of Illyrian civilization. In the 2nd–1st centuries BC, it even minted its own coins for the Bylin community, establishing its role as the capital of this confederation. The community included nearby cities such as Nikaja (modern-day Klos), Margëlliç, Gurzezë, and other fortifications and villages. With the Roman conquest, Bylis evolved into a Roman colony under Emperor Augustus, adding notable structures such as public baths, the altar of Augustus, and Roman-style residential buildings. These architectural additions reflected the shift in cultural and political influence while enhancing the city's prominence.

During Late Antiquity, Bylis became an influential episcopal center. After the decline of Apollonia, its last bishop relocated to Bylis, which led to further urban transformation. A new defensive wall was constructed, reducing the city's protected area to 10 hectares. The most remarkable structures from this era are five basilicas, one forming part of a larger episcopal complex. These basilicas are among the most magnificent in the Balkans, celebrated for their extensive mosaic floors—covering around 1,000 square meters—and their finely detailed decorative sculptures. The city also featured oil and wine production facilities, residential quarters, and other significant elements of urban life before it was ultimately destroyed during barbarian invasions in 586 AD.