It is very possible that the notorious Roman emperor Nero once graced the stage of the Theatre of Nikopolis. It seems that he participated in music and drama contests and – as expected! – distinguished himself.  His presence at Nikopolis is supported by local coins bearing his image that were issued at the time. The “adoration” for Nero exhibited by the city was no random act, but a move in the hope that the emperor would return the favor, bestowing gifts and other material benefits. The honors paid to Nero culminated in the renaming of the city: Nikopolis became “Neronikopolis”.