The ancient city of Troy is know throughout the world thanks to Homer’s epic poem, The Iliad. The others might remember the movie starring Brad Pitt.
Either way, according to the legend, the city of Troy was conquered by the Greeks who after ten years of unsuccessful attacks, faked a withdrawal, introducing a wooden horse as a present to the Troyans. The Troyans pulled the horse inside the city buildings, and during the night the greek warriors hidden inside the horse crept out and opened the city gates to their fellow warriors.
The story was thought to be a myth till the 1870s, when a German amateur archeologist, Heinrich Schliemann, used his own fortune to finance digging at the hill called Hisarlik, uncovering nine successive settlements, one a top of the last. The oldest dated back 5000 years!
The site perhaps is not as impressive as many expect, but the history and legend attached to the area make this a really fascinating place.
WHERE TO FIND IT
In Canakkale, a province in the western part of Turkey, not far inland from the Sea of Marmara
WHAT TO SEE THERE
Ancient Pergamon, Heinrich Schliemann’s house. Ask about the “King Priam’s treasure”. There is the Troy Festival in August, and is worth visiting.
WHEN TO GO THERE
The climate is best in spring and autumn.
WHAT IS IT KNOWN FOR
Steeped in history and legend, the ruins of the ancient city of Troy.
