Ancient Nikopolis

The remains of ancient Nikopolis (victory city) can be found just 7 kilometres north of the city of Preveza. It was built to commemorate Octavian’s great naval victory at Aktion over the forces of Mark Antony and Cleopatra in 31 BC.At its height, more than 150,000 people resided here, most of which were forced to re-locate there from surrounding villages. The apostle Paul visited Nikopolis briefly and the philosopher Epictetus opened a school here. The city was sacked in 267 AD by the Goths and in 540 AD the Byzantine ruler Justinian re-fortified the walls. Many archaeologists and other researchers believe that modern day Preveza grew out of an extension of Nikopolis. The site is quite extensive, and many of its components are well –preserved, particularly the Roman Odeon. The remains of walls, theatres, temples to Poseidon and Ares, aqueducts, and baths can still be seen.