Archaeologists in southern Albania have uncovered a previously unknown defensive wall at the ancient city of Amantia, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, the government said on Thursday.
The structure was found during excavations at the Amantia Archaeological Park, near the coastal city of Vlorë.
Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja said the discovery sheds new light on the urban and public organisation of the Illyrian settlement. The wall is believed to have remained in use until the 6th century CE, when it was destroyed.
“This is an entirely new element for archaeologists,” Gonxhja wrote in a social media post.
Archaeologists have also carried out urgent restoration work on monumental tombs and other vulnerable structures at the site to protect them from frost, rainfall and other environmental damage.
Authorities said the discovery and conservation efforts are part of a wider programme to preserve Amantia – once a key centre of Illyrian civilisation – for research and visitors.