Dyrrhachians

The Dyrrhachians were an ancient Illyrian tribe that inhabited the region of Dyrrhachium (modern-day Durrës, Albania) and its surroundings. They were part of the broader Illyrian confederation, which encompassed various tribes in the Balkans. The Dyrrhachians are known for their significant role in the history of the region, particularly during the 4th and 3rd centuries BCE.

The Dyrrhachians were mentioned by ancient Greek historians such as Thucydides and Polybius. They were known for their military prowess and their alliances with various powers, including the Macedonians and the Romans. The city of Dyrrhachium, founded by the Dyrrhachians, became an important center of trade and culture in the region.

The Dyrrhachians' interactions with the Macedonian king Philip II and his son Alexander the Great are well-documented. Philip II sought to expand his empire into Illyria, and the Dyrrhachians played a crucial role in this endeavor. Alexander the Great, upon ascending to the throne, continued the expansionist policies of his father and further solidified Macedonian control over the region.

The Dyrrhachians' alliance with the Romans also played a significant role in the region's history. After the Roman conquest of the Illyrian territories, the Dyrrhachians became a part of the Roman province of Illyricum. The city of Dyrrhachium remained an important Roman settlement, serving as a military base and a center of administration.

The Dyrrhachians' legacy is reflected in the modern-day city of Durrës, which retains many historical and cultural ties to its ancient Illyrian roots. The region continues to be an important part of Albania's cultural and historical identity.