The Roman colony
Caesar arrived at Butrint in 44BC and recognized its potential as a town. After his bitter struggle with Pompey he designated Butrint a Roman colonial city. Augustus, Caesar's adopted son, further developed the colony after defeating Anthony and Cleopatra at nearby Actiumin 31 BC.
The colony required a major building programme, which was funded by Augustus, his family and private sponsors. The funds paid for public works in the 1st century AD such as a new aqueduct and bridge across the Vivari Channel.
The larger-than-life size early Imperial statues discovered in the theatre (which can be seen in the museum), include Augustus, his wife Livia and his successful general Agrippa. They were daily reminders to the citizens of Butrint of their patrons' generosity.
- Roman imperial portraits and busts in the Butrint Museum