Troy: The Legendary City Where Myth Meets History

THE MYTH THAT CHANGED HISTORY

When you hear the name "Troy," your mind probably conjures up images of warriors, gods, and a giant wooden horse. And you’re not alone. Immortalized in Homer’s Iliad, the Trojan War is one of the most iconic stories in Western literature. But what if we told you that Troy isn’t just a myth—it’s a real place you can walk through today?

Located in modern-day Turkey, near the Dardanelles, the ancient city of Truva (Troy) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that blends powerful storytelling with real archaeological wonders.

WHERE IS TROY AND HOW DO YOU GET THERE?

Troy is situated near the town of Tevfikiye, just outside Çanakkale in northwestern Turkey. It's roughly a 5.5-hour drive from Istanbul, making it a popular stop on tours heading toward the Aegean coast or Gallipoli. It’s also just a short drive from the ferry terminals that connect Europe and Asia.

We often combine Troy with visits to nearby sites like Gallipoli or Pergamon, creating immersive, history-rich itineraries for our guests.

THE DISCOVERY OF A LEGEND

For centuries, many believed Troy was nothing more than a myth. That changed in the 19th century when amateur archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann unearthed the ruins of a city he believed to be Homer’s Troy. He even found a treasure he dubbed “Priam’s Treasure,” which he controversially smuggled out of the country.

Today, archaeologists agree that the site contains multiple layers of ancient cities—at least 10 cities built on top of one another, spanning over 3,000 years. The layer known as "Troy VII" is widely considered to be the most likely candidate for the city destroyed in the legendary war.

WALKING THROUGH TIME: WHAT TO SEE IN TROY

Visiting Troy is like peeling back the pages of history. Here’s what you can expect to see:

• The Replica Trojan Horse: A towering wooden horse welcomes visitors at the site’s entrance. It's a great photo opportunity and a fun way to introduce younger travelers to the legend.
• Ancient City Walls: Massive stone walls that once protected the city still stand—silent witnesses to the battles of centuries past.
• Ruins of Homes and Temples: Foundations, altars, and remnants of everyday life reveal the layers of civilization that flourished here.
• The Bouleuterion (Council House): This well-preserved structure gives a glimpse into the political life of the ancient city.

FUN FACTS THAT WILL WOW YOUR FRIENDS

• The name “Truva” is the Turkish name for Troy.
• The Trojan War, if it happened, likely took place around 1200 BC—that’s over 3,200 years ago!
• The site shows evidence of destruction by fire, supporting Homer’s tale of a burning city.

• Brad Pitt filmed part of his 2004 Troy movie in Malta—but the real Troy is right here in Turkey!

TROY IN TURKISH CULTURE

While Troy is often associated with Greek mythology, it holds a special place in Turkish heritage. The city symbolizes the deep, ancient roots of Anatolian civilization. Turkish poet Nazım Hikmet even wrote about Troy in his epic poem “Human Landscapes from My Country,” blending legend with national identity.

In 2018, Turkey celebrated the “Year of Troy” to mark the 20th anniversary of the site’s inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list. A modern Museum of Troy now stands near the site, showcasing artifacts, sculptures, and interactive exhibits that breathe life into the legend.

SHOULD YOU VISIT TROY? ABSOLUTELY. HERE’S WHY:

• It’s perfect for history lovers who want more than just textbook learning.
• It offers great storytelling opportunities for families and curious minds.
• It’s a less crowded site, making for a more peaceful and reflective experience.
• It’s the only place on Earth where you can say you’ve walked through a legend!

COMBINE YOUR VISIT WITH A CUSTOM TOUR

At Turkey Tour Organizer, we specialize in tailor-made journeys through Turkey’s most iconic sites—including Troy, Gallipoli, Pergamon, Ephesus, and more. Whether you're a solo traveler or organizing a small group, we’ll design the perfect itinerary just for you.

Want to see how Troy fits into your dream vacation?
Explore our private tours for inspiration, or read what past guests say about their experience on our testimonials page.

READY TO WALK THROUGH A LEGEND?

Let’s plan a journey that combines myth, history, and breathtaking scenery. Reach out today and we’ll create a custom itinerary that includes Troy—and much more.

👉 Contact us here to get started.