Archaeological Site of Troy

A Traveler’s Guide to the Legendary Archaeological Site of Troy

Welcome to the ancient city of Troy! This iconic site, immortalized in Homer’s epic tales, has captivated imaginations for centuries. Nestled on the western coast of Turkey, the archaeological site of Hisarlik offers a unique chance to walk in the footsteps of history and experience the legendary city of Troy firsthand.

History and Legend:

Hisarlik, located near the modern-day village of the same name, is a large mound thought to be the site of the ancient city described in Homer’s Iliad. This epic poem tells the story of the Trojan War, a 10-year conflict between the Greeks and Trojans that was sparked by the abduction of Helen of Troy, a tale as fascinating as it is enduring.

Before You Go:

  • Location: The archaeological site of Troy is located in the Çanakkale Province on the northwestern coast of Turkey, near the modern town of Çanakkale.
  • Timing Your Visit: Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Tickets and Tours: Entry tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Guided tours are available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the site’s history.

Getting There:

The archaeological site of Troy is easily accessible from Çanakkale, Canakkale (Çanakkale), Turkey.

  • From Çanakkale City: Regular minibuses (dolmuş) run from Çanakkale city to the village of Çayırköy, where the site is located. The journey takes about 30 minutes and is a short walk from the entrance.
  • By Car: You can drive to the site, but it’s important to note that the area around the site is now an archaeological park with restricted access.

What To Expect:

The ancient city of Troy offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its multi-layered ruins spanning millennia. While the famous “wooden walls” and “Trojan Horse” are fictionalized in Homer’s epic, the real-life city holds incredible historical significance.

  • Layers upon Layers: Be prepared to experience history in depth. The site of Troy is a complex tapestry of ancient civilizations, layered over time.

Key Sites and Attractions:

As you explore Hisarlik, you’ll encounter:

  • The Archaeological Site:

    • The Citadel (Hisarlık Hill): This towering mound was the heart of ancient Troy, containing palaces, temples, and important public buildings.
    • The Walls: While the Trojan Horse is mythical, the impressive remains of ancient walls are a major highlight of the site.
    • The Palace of Priam: This reconstructed citadel offers an immersive experience into the potential grandeur of the original city.

  • Reconstruction and History: Explore the reconstructed gates, walls, and buildings, offering a visual representation of what life was like in ancient Troy during different periods.

    • The Trojan Horse: This legendary wooden horse is recreated in the form of a theater set-up, showcasing its symbolic presence in the epic tale.

Beyond the Ruins:

  • The Archaeological Museum of Troy: Located near the site, this museum houses artifacts and discoveries excavated from the ruins. It’s worth visiting for a deeper understanding of the archaeological evidence for the Trojan War and the city itself.
  • The “Trojan Horse” Experience: While not a direct historical link, the “Troy: The Trojan Horse Story” exhibit at the site offers insights into the history of the Trojan Horse myth and its evolution through time.

Visiting the Museum:

  • Museum Layout: The museum is well-organized with exhibits labeled in Turkish and English for easy navigation.
  • Exhibit Highlights:
    • The “Face of Helen”:** A fascinating reconstruction of a potential face of the legendary figure based on archaeological findings and artistic interpretations.
    • Artifacts from all periods: You can explore the history of Troy beyond the Trojan Horse myth, with artifacts showcasing the city’s various stages from the Bronze Age to the present day.

Tips for a Memorable Visit:

  • Dress Appropriately: The weather at the site can be hot and sunny, so dress in comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring Water: It is essential to stay hydrated while exploring the ancient ruins under the Turkish sun. Carry plenty of water and water-rich snacks.

Guided Tours:

  • Benefits: Taking a guided tour can significantly enhance your understanding of the site’s history and significance. Guides can provide context for what you see and answer any questions you have.
  • Accessibility: They are often available at the entrance to the archaeological sites, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

Practical Information:

  • Language: While Turkish is the official language of Turkey, English is widely spoken in the tourism industry.

  • Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. Ensure you have some cash on hand for small purchases or tips.

  • Accessibility: The site is open to the public and accessible year-round.

Visiting Hours:

  • Hours: Check the official website or with your travel provider for the current visiting hours of the museum, as they may vary.

History You Can Touch:

The history of Troy goes beyond the Trojan War story. The site’s archaeological significance lies in its multi-layered past:

  • The “Troy” of Homer: The most famous aspect of the site is the association with the Trojan War.
  • Ancient Architecture:

Witness the remnants of ancient structures like the walls, towers, and houses from different periods.

Things To See:

  • The Citadel: Explore the remains of the ancient citadel, a crucial part of any city’s defense system in antiquity.

  • The “Face of Helen”: This isn’t the face of Helen herself (she is a mythical character), but a reconstruction of what the ancient Greeks might have imagined her to look like.

  • The Walls:

The reconstructed walls and gates are a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the civilizations that inhabited Troy.

  • Ancient Artifacts: Discover artifacts from the various layers, offering a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the people who lived there in different eras.

Things To Do:

  • Explore the Ruins: Walk through the ancient ruins, imagining the daily life at the site.
  • Visit the Museum: Explore the museum and learn about the archaeological discoveries that shed light on the history of Troy.

Food and Drink:

  • Local Cuisine: Experience the delicious flavors of Turkish cuisine with a visit to the “Trojan Horse” Tavern near the excavation site.

Traditional Restaurants:

The tavern offers traditional Turkish dishes, such as:

  • Meze: Enjoy a variety of small, flavorful dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, and dolma (stuffed grape leaves).
  • Kebab: Savor different types of grilled meat, a staple of Turkish food.

Other Activities:

  • Trojan Horse Exhibit: Visit the museum exhibit that details the history of Troy’s archaeological excavations and provides insights into the lives of those who lived there in ancient times.

  • Explore the “Face of Helen”: The “Face of Helen” display is a highlight of the site, allowing you to see the reconstructed face of the legendary figure.

Accessibility:

  • The “Trojan Horse” exhibit is located on a relatively flat and accessible area within the archaeological site.
  • Accessibility Options:

The museum offers various accessibility options for visitors with disabilities.

Tips:

  • Visit early: Avoid the midday heat and crowds by arriving before they open.

  • Bring water and snacks: It’s crucial to stay hydrated and energized, especially when exploring during warmer months.

  • Wear comfortable shoes: The terrain is uneven and rocky in some areas, so wear shoes suitable for walking on such surfaces.

Getting Around:

  • Walking:

The best way to experience the archaeological site of Troy is on foot.

  • Guided Tours:

Hiring a guide is highly recommended. They can provide historical context, point out important features and answer questions about:

  • The Trojan Horse:

Guided tours can enhance your understanding of the Trojan Horse story and its significance in literature and history.

  • Wear comfortable clothes: The site itself is outdoors and visitors are likely to be walking for a while.

Important Notes:

  • Respect the Site: Remember that this is an ancient archaeological site, and it’s important to treat it with respect. Stay on marked paths, don’t touch artifacts, and follow all instructions from staff.
  • Photography:

While some photography is allowed at the site, you may need a special permit for professional or commercial photography.

  • Photography Rules:

It’s important to be aware of the rules regarding photography at archaeological sites.

Respectful Exploration:

Remember that archaeology is a destructive science. The more we dig, the less there is left to excavate.

  • The “Trojan Horse”:

A famous historical landmark!

Beyond the Site:

The Archaeological Museum of Troy is a popular destination for visitors. Many tourists combine their visit with exploring the nearby ancient city of Assos or even take a day trip to the island of Lesbos, where they can discover:

  • Ancient artifacts from different periods:

The museum showcases the history of the “ancient” city

  • Discoveries that relate to the Trojan War:

While the site itself is fascinating, it’s important to remember that the Trojan Horse and the stories surrounding it are largely considered mythical. However, the stories do provide a fascinating glimpse into the past,

even if they are not historically accurate.

  • Guided tours of the ancient city:

These can be a great way to learn about the history of Troy.

  • Wear comfortable shoes:

The site is large and there’s a lot to see, so wear comfortable shoes.

  • Bring water and sunscreen: The sun can be intense in this region.

  • Learn About The Trojan Horse:

Remember: The Trojan War is a story that has been told and retold for centuries.

It’s important to remember that the stories are largely considered mythical, but they have inspired and captivated generations.

Enjoy exploring the site and learning about its history!