Monumental bronze statue of Queen Teuta unveiled in northern Albania

A monumental bronze statue dedicated to the Illyrian queen Teuta was unveiled today in northern Albania, local reports say. The sculpture honours the ruler who resisted the expansion of the Roman Republic in antiquity.

Officials placed the statue at a site historians identify with some of the events connected to Teuta’s rule and the clashes between Illyrian forces and Rome.

Historical context and meaning

At the unveiling ceremony, historians spoke about Teuta’s role in the region’s past and described her as one of the best‑known rulers among the ancient Illyrians. They also emphasised that Illyrians are regarded as direct ancestors of modern Albanians.

Teuta governed parts of Illyrian territories in the 3rd century BCE and is remembered for her conflict with Rome, which culminated in the First Illyrian War. That campaign led to an expansion of Rome’s political and military influence across the eastern Adriatic.

The statue’s backers say the monument aims to highlight local historical continuity and attract attention to the archaeological and cultural landscape of the area. Organisers described the work as a large bronze representation intended for public display.

Meanwhile, separate unrest and protests around the country have unsettled tourism in recent weeks, with some travellers cancelling reservations, authorities and industry representatives report.

Photo: Fejsbuk/Greece High Definition