Ancient Butrint Adventure
-
port
Kerkira, Nisos Kerkira (Corfu), Greece
-
activityLevel
Strenuous Activity
-
excursionType
Information Not Currently Available
-
wheelchairAccessible
No
-
startingAtPrice
$260
-
minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
-
duration
Approximately 7 hours
-
mealsIncluded
Meals included
Butrint
Inhabited since prehistoric times, Butrint has been the site of a Greek colony, a Roman city and a bishopric. Following a period of prosperity under Byzantine administration, then a brief occupation by the Venetians, the city was abandoned in the late Middle Ages after marshes formed in the area. The present archaeological site is a repository of ruins representing each period in the city's development.
You will depart the port of Corfu on a hydrofoil headed for Albania and the beachfront city of Saranda, which hugs its wide bay with gusto.
In Saranda, board a coach and travel to the archaeological excavations at the ancient town of Butrint. Originally named Buthrotum, Butrint was an important Greco-Roman port city, inhabited continuously from the 7th century BC until it was abandoned in the 18th century AD. Its impressive walls are reminiscent of ancient Mycenae in Greece, and its most noteworthy excavated remains are early Hellenistic and Roman as well as Byzantine and Venetian -- an eclectic blend indeed. Of special interest is the circular baptistery dating from the 6th century AD, paved with mosaics.
A traditional lunch is served back in Saranda; then, you'll head back to the port area.
Reboard the hydrofoil for the return trip to Corfu and, when you leave the boat in Corfu Town, your guide will tell you about its history, ancient and not-so-ancient, before you return to the ship.
Please note: Travel time to Butrint is approximately 90 minutes each way. You must bring your passport with you on the tour.