Nicopolis
Archaeological Site Ancient Roman city and archaeological site in Epirus
Founded by Octavian after Actium, Nicopolis near Preveza preserves Roman and Byzantine ruins and a local archaeological museum; visitors come for the excavations and nearby coastal scenery.
Nicopolis is an ancient city in northwestern Greece that was founded by Octavian (the future Emperor Augustus) after his victory at Actium in 31 BCE. It became an important regional center in Roman and late-antique Epirus and contains substantial archaeological remains.
Excavations have revealed city walls, a Roman theatre, baths, and early Christian and Byzantine period structures that reflect the city’s development and long occupation. Over time the urban center underwent changes in response to shifting political and economic conditions in late antiquity.
The ruins of Nicopolis lie near the modern town of Preveza in the Epirus region, on the coastal plain where the Ambracian Gulf meets mainland northwestern Greece.
- Foundation: The city was founded by Octavian (later Emperor Augustus) to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Actium in 31 BCE, and archaeological remains include a theatre and public buildings from the Roman period.
How to Get to Nicopolis #
Nicopolis is accessible by road from Preveza and Aktion (around 10-15 km from Preveza). Regional buses and private car are the usual options; check local signs for the archaeological site.
Tips for Visiting Nicopolis #
- Wear sturdy shoes-archaeological remains are often on uneven ground and not heavily interpreted on-site.
- Bring water and sun protection; some ruins sit in open countryside with little shade.
- Combine with regional visits to nearby Epirus sites (e.g., Nikopolis museum) to get historical context.
Best Time to Visit Nicopolis #
Spring and early autumn avoid peak summer heat and tourist crowds.
Weather & Climate near Nicopolis #
Nicopolis's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Mediterranean - Hot-Summer Mediterranean climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 5°C to 32°C. Moderate rainfall (881 mm/year) with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 13°C and lows of 5°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (114 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (34 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 17°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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July
July is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 10 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 32°C and lows of 19°C. Light rainfall and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (155 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (144 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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