Troy

The ancient city of Troy may not look much like a “city” at first glance, but a tour among the ruins will reveal just how mystifying and beautiful it must have been in the days of old. Set in the idyllic Aegean coast of Turkey, Troy is a remarkable site archeologically and culturally. It was mentioned in Homer’s masterpieces as one of the most powerful kingdoms in the Heroic Age. Today, the legend of Troy continues to be a shady issue among historians—but archeological truth shows traces of civilizations, from the Late Bronze Age to the glorious Byzantine empire. Throw in abysmal cliffs, a staggering cerulean sea, and the cleanest air in Turkey, and you have yourself a leisurely afternoon blessed with culture and nature.

The ruins of Troy come divided into periods sprawling over the rich and earthy land. The classical red-brick walls of Troy occupy a section of the inner circles. Most well-preserved fortifications, however, are on the outer edges. Further along, the path meandering through the must-see parts of the city lead to Greco-Roman Troy IX. There, the Temple of Athena and remnants of a megaron are more fascinating sights. Other highlights are the Troy VI Palace Complex and traces of sanctuaries. But perhaps the most iconic monument is the wooden Trojan Horse, bewitching visitors with its enigmatic story and worldwide renown.