Played a key role in shaping Europe: What we know about the Egnatia Road (photos)

The Via Egnatia, or Egnatian Road, was the primary Roman road that stretched over a vast distance, linking the Adriatic Sea coastline with Byzantium, now known as Istanbul. As a continuation of the Appian Way, one of the oldest and most significant roads of Rome, it played a crucial role in enhancing trade and military movements throughout the empire, writes GreekReporter.

While Roman culture is often associated with exquisite mosaics and marble sculptures, the extensive network of roads was instrumental in the long-lasting influence of the Romans.

The Via Egnatia was the first highway to cross the Balkan Peninsula and the first road constructed by the Romans outside Italy.

Construction and Engineering

Built between 146 and 120 BC, the Via Egnatia was named after Gnaeus Egnatius, a Roman senator who oversaw its construction. His tenure as proconsul of Macedonia began after Rome conquered the region in 148 BC during the Fourth Macedonian War.

The Egnatian Road stretched approximately 1120 kilometers, although the easternmost sections may not have been completed until decades after Egnatius managed Macedonia, with some segments built over earlier military roads connecting Illyria and Byzantium.

The road, about six meters wide, was constructed using advanced Roman engineering techniques. Geodetic instruments and markers were utilized to ensure the path was as straight and level as possible.

Key Route and Strategic Cities

The Via Egnatia connected the most significant urban centers of Illyria, Northern Greece, and Thrace, facilitating both trade and military logistics. At the westernmost point of the route was Dyrrachium (modern-day Albania), a vital hub near the Greek city of Apollonia.

The main cities along the route included Thessalonica, Amphipolis, Philippi, Neapolis, and Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great and the former capital of the Macedonian kingdom.

The eastern terminus was Byzantium, which gained particular significance after Emperor Constantine established Constantinople as the new capital of the Roman Empire in 330 AD.

Later, at the city entrance, the triumphal arch known as the Golden Gate was erected, through which the Egnatian Way led into the city. After successful military campaigns, Byzantine emperors would lead a ceremonial procession along this road, passing through the Golden Gate into the city.

Historical Significance

Given its strategic importance, the Via Egnatia was the site of several decisive military confrontations. In 84 BC, Roman general Sulla pursued the forces of Mithridates VI Eupator along the road.

Later, in 48 BC, Julius Caesar's victory over Pompey at the Battle of Dyrrachium secured control over the route. The road also played a significant role in the civil war between Mark Antony and Octavian against Caesar's assassins, Brutus and Cassius.

In addition to its military role, the Via Egnatia was a key route for early Christian missionaries. The Apostle Paul traveled this road during his journeys, spreading teachings in cities such as Thessalonica, Philippi, and Amphipolis.

Interesting Facts

Parts of the ancient Via Egnatia are still in use today, with some sections incorporated into modern roads in Greece and Albania, enduring for over 2,000 years.

Today, the Egnatia Odos highway, or Autobahn 2, runs parallel to the ancient route, connecting the city of Igoumenitsa in northwestern Greece with the Greek-Turkish border in the Evros region. This is a major transport corridor linking Greece with Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey, making it vital for international trade.

The road traverses the mountain ranges of Pindus and Rhodopes, featuring 76 tunnels (with a total length of over 100 km) and 1,650 bridges. It is also connected to 4 ports and 6 airports.

Additionally, we have discussed the 3000-year-old complex in Egypt, where gold has been processed for thousands of years.