Located near Chrysavgi, it was an important ancient city of Thesprotia. It was the seat of the Thesprotian “Koinon” in the period (335-330 BC).
The city is built on a plateau at the foot of the mountains of Paramythia having a view over the valley.
The monumental fortifications, dating from the first half of the 4th century BC, are preserved today at a height of 7m. Its width is 4m and its construction still impresses the visitor.
The city flourished during the Hellenistic period and was destroyed in 167 BC by the Romans.
The excavations have brought to light many significant findings and data on the plan of the city.
Many coins of other important cities of that time have been also found, demonstrating the economic prosperity, but also the scope of the trade and communication between its inhabitants.
Many of the findings are today exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Igoumenitsa.
Elea is now a significant archaeological site of Thesprotia, open to visitors.
