Biblical Apollonia is another Saint Paul related site that we visit on our way to Philippi. Biblical Apollonia is worth visiting as it offers a glimpse into the early history of Christianity and the role that Saint Paul played in spreading the gospel. In addition, it is beautiful and inspiring place, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you are a Christian pilgrim or simply interested in history and culture, Apollonia in Northern Greece is definitely worth a visit.

Acts 17:1

17 When Paul and his companions had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue.

 

Biblical Apollonia: Cursus publicus

The Romans maintained a highly efficient postal system known as the cursus publicus. This system was established by Emperor Augustus in the 1st century BC and was operational throughout the Roman Empire. The system was based on a network of relay stations located along the Roman road network. These stations were spaced at convenient intervals, typically a day’s journey apart. Couriers, often on horseback, would carry messages between these stations.

When a courier reached a station, a fresh horse and rider would take over, ensuring rapid delivery.  The cursus publicus was primarily used for official correspondence, including military dispatches and government documents.

The system was highly secure, with couriers often traveling in groups for protection. Messages delivered across the empire relatively quickly, especially considering the vast distances involved. The cursus publicus was a remarkable achievement of Roman engineering and logistics, contributing to the efficient administration and communication of the vast Roman Empire. It is considered one of the most advanced postal systems of the ancient world.

Apollonia was a relay station of cursus publicus as located almost in the middle between Amphipolis and Thessalonica on Via Egnatia, the ancient Roman road connecting Rome with Constantinople. There was a strong Roman garrison at Biblical Apollonia protecting the locals and travelers while promoting local commercial activity. According to tradition, Saint Paul, preached to the Greeks, baptized many of them and established a church. 

Biblical Apollonia: Footsteps of Saint Paul

 The intertwinement of biblical Greece and early Christianity forms a profound narrative that continues to resonate through the ages. Pilgrimage tours to Greece provide an avenue for the faithful to immerse themselves in this narrative, experiencing firsthand the sacred geography that shaped the Christian ethos. Saint Paul visited Greece on two of his missionary journeys, establishing some of the earliest Christian communities & churches in Europe.

Biblical tours in Greece and early Christianity sites have gained popularity in recent years, as more and more travelers mainly from U.S.A express interest in exploring the true history and significance of Christianity in its early years. Nowadays pilgrimage tours to Northern Greece provide a unique blend of devotional practice and historical exploration.

Our Footsteps of Paul tours are not merely tourist excursions but acts of faith that retrace the steps of the Apostles and Greek martyrs, seeking connection with the divine through the sanctity of ancient sites and monuments.

Biblical Apollonia: Tours to Philippi

Our biblical Philippi private day trips can accommodate your small group in one of our minivans (max 6 guests), or Mercedes Sprinter minibus (max 12 guests). We may start your private tour from any location, including all Thessaloniki hotels or from Kavala and Thessaloniki Port for our guests from U.S.A, Canada and Australia arriving via cruise ship.

We also pick up from the SKG Thessaloniki International Airport or Airbnb Vacation Rental for a small fee. Flexible itinerary with plenty of stops along the way like Biblical Apollonia. For our Philippi tour, we may start your tour from any location, including all Thessaloniki or Kaval hotels or from Kavala and Thessaloniki Port for our guests arriving via cruise ship.Celebrity Infinity cruises.

Your chauffeur and local guide

Michael E. Nalbantis is both your driver and local guide for all your Thessaloniki day trips. Thessaloniki born and grown, English speaking and a Google maps local guide level seven. Also available licensed tour guides for archaeological sites and museums upon request at an extra cost.

Availability & rates

For more info (availability – rates) on our Philippi biblical day trips from Thessaloniki, please click here or simply contact Michael at +306976888113

For more information on our Thessaloniki, day trips please contact us or simply call Michael at +306976888113 WhatsApp & Viber available. In addition, SKG Thessaloniki Airport pickups available upon request.