For an Athenian, Nicopolis is truly a new world. Unlike our city with its confusing alleys, narrow streets, and convoluted plan, Nicopolis is neatly laid out according to the principles of that old Miletian architect, Hippodamus. Sure, the temple of Apollo on top of the hill is somewhat reminiscent of our Acropolis and both cities have divine founders but Nicopolis’ strict geometric plan with the rectangular city blocks and the streets running north-south (cardines) and east-west (decumani) is spectacular. And how fortunate we are to be living in an age when there are no barbarians threatening us. The impressive city walls are clearly more of a status symbol than a necessity.