Alexandria Troas is an ancient port city located in the Ezine district of Çanakkale, founded in 310 BC by Antigonus, a commander of Alexander the Great. It is known as the first place St. Paul crossed into Europe and is recognized for the gymnasium ruins within its vast archaeological site, which is largely underground today.
Alexandria Troas was founded in 310 BC by Antigonus Monophthalmus, one of Alexander the Great's commanders, under the name Antigoneia. After Alexander's death, Lysimachus, the ruler of Thrace, changed the city's name to Alexandria Troas. Spanning an area of 390 acres and surrounded by 8 kilometers of walls, this city was once home to nearly 100,000 people. It is a Roman city meticulously planned from top to bottom, with its baths, harbor, stadium, temple, stone-paved streets, and waterways. The remains of the Herodes Atticus Gymnasium, considered the largest gymnasium in Anatolia, also stand here.
At one point, it was even considered to make this city the capital of Rome instead of Constantinople, but the decision favored Constantinople. The city then gradually emptied and was forgotten. Today, its proximity to Geyikli Pier, where ferries to Bozcaada depart, makes it a logical stop when traveling to or from the island.
Visitor reviews are divided. Some find the columns, sarcophagi, and marble reliefs impressive; they say that combined with the Aegean view, it creates a unique atmosphere, that excavation work is ongoing, and that the walls are well-preserved. On the other hand, many complain about the lack of information panels in the area, the disorganized state of artifacts on the ground, and poor maintenance. Some visitors tour the site in 10-15 minutes, while others encounter an archaeologist's narration and have a much richer experience. So, there's an element of luck involved.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Çanakkale, Historical Places, Historical places in Çanakkale, Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial.
Guide's Note
When to Visit
Visiting between May and July is the most comfortable. Since the city spans a large, shadeless area, avoid the midday heat of mid-summer. Early morning hours protect from the heat and provide better light for photography. In winter, the area can become muddy, making walking a bit difficult.
How to Get There
Approximately 30 kilometers from Çanakkale city center by private car, 21 kilometers from Ezine. Those heading to Geyikli Yükyeri Pier to take the Bozcaada ferry pass within a few kilometers of the city; a small detour is all it takes to add it to your route. Public transportation options are limited; going by your own car or taxi is the most practical way.
How Much Time to Allocate
According to visitor reviews, the duration varies greatly. Those who just want to see the surroundings finish in 10-15 minutes. For those who lean into the excavation site and curiously examine the sarcophagi, gymnasium ruins, and wall traces, this time can extend up to an hour. If you're lucky enough to encounter an archaeological team, the time spent with their narration could be even longer.
Suggested Itinerary
There are several other ancient ruins near Alexandria Troas in the region. It's possible to fit them into the same day for a total tour of about an hour. If you're going to Bozcaada, visiting before your ferry time or on your return from the island is the most logical way to allocate time here without wasting the day.
Things to Note
A frequently repeated point in visitor reviews is that there are no information panels in the area, excavation work is ongoing, and the general level of maintenance is considered low. Some visitors say their expectations were not met, while others state that the Aegean view and historical atmosphere make up for these shortcomings. Adjust your expectations accordingly; do not expect a classic museum layout or a restored archaeological site.
Good Spots for Photos
The standing arches of the Gymnasium and the surrounding marble pieces, along with pine and olive trees, enter the frame. The Aegean view from the sea-facing part of the city, especially near sunset, is a good option for photography.
About the City
The city's name is an expression of respect for Alexander the Great. It is believed that St. Paul first set sail for Europe from here during his journey described in the Bible, which makes the city important for Christian history. The presence of the Herodes Atticus structure, considered the largest gymnasium in Anatolia, shows how significant a center the city was during the Roman period.
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