Ancient Troy is now more accessible than ever for exploration
- The 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, opened two years ago, facilitates easier access to Troy from Istanbul, eliminating the long ferry ride.
- Visitors can explore various ancient layers of the city and see significant archaeological features from the Bronze Age through to the Roman era.
- Troy has become a key educational and cultural destination, attracting tourists and scholars alike.
Türkiye, home to the legendary ancient site of Troy, has made access to this historic location significantly easier in recent years. The 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, which opened two years ago, allows visitors to skip a lengthy ferry ride and enjoy a direct four- or five-hour drive from Istanbul to Troy. This remarkable infrastructure connects the Gallipoli peninsula to Çanakkale province, enhancing tourism and interest in the ancient ruins that date back more than 5,000 years. At the site, which encompasses 74 acres, visitors can explore various layers of ancient cities, including Troy I, dating back to 3000 BC, and Troy IX, representing the Roman era up to 500 AD. Recent excavations have revealed even deeper layers, providing insights into the Bronze Age with significant historical findings that include the famous Polyxena Sarcophagus and an intact Odeon. The remains of massive walls and structures, such as the limestone blocks at the Troy VI East Gate, highlight the architectural advancements of the times. The historical significance of Troy is underscored by its connection to Homer’s Iliad, making it a fascinating destination for both casual visitors and scholars. The leisurely stroll through the ruins reveals not only the remnants of an ancient civilization but also provides a picturesque setting enlivened by fields of spring poppies and diverse bird species, echoing the natural environment described in classic texts. The outdoor exhibit of large pithoi pots near the entrance offers insight into ancient storage techniques for essential goods like oil and grains, marking the site as a commercial hub in its day. The prominent 40-foot-tall wooden Trojan horse serves as both a photo opportunity and a reminder of the site’s legendary past. Visitors today are privileged to witness one of history's most storied locations, which once thrived as a center of human settlement across multiple eras. The advancements in access, alongside the ongoing archaeological efforts, ensure that Troy remains a significant educational and cultural landmark that continues to draw interest from around the globe, inviting new generations to explore its storied history.