The Oldest City in Albania: Why Durrës Was Called ‘The Second Constantinople’

The Oldest City in Albania: Why Durrës Was Called ‘The Second Constantinople’

Durrës, Albania’s ancient coastal city, holds a remarkable place in the country's history and culture. Founded by two Illyrian kings, Dyrah and Epidamn, the city emerged as a thriving settlement known as Epidamnus-Dyrrhachium around the 7th century BC. With its strategic location along the Adriatic Sea, Durrës became a pivotal trade hub and a gateway between the East and West. During the reign of Emperor Anastasius I (491-519) — himself an Illyr…