Parion is a lesser-known ancient city of the Troas region, located on the Marmara Sea coast in Kemer Village, Biga district of Çanakkale, featuring two harbors and a theater, with free entry and a peaceful atmosphere.
Parion is an ancient city located on the coast of the Marmara Sea, within the borders of Kemer Village, part of the Biga district of Çanakkale. There are two theories regarding the city's name: according to some sources, it comes from the Parians who founded it, while others suggest it comes from Paris, son of King Priam of Troy. The city's two harbors, its proximity to the Marmara Sea and the entrance to the Dardanelles, explain why the region has been settled for thousands of years.
Excavation work has been ongoing since 2005, and the city is still slowly emerging from beneath the earth. Kemer Village, located on the road to the city, also draws attention with its historical texture where Greeks and Turks lived together. The stream passing through the village and the old houses make for a worthwhile stop before heading to the ancient city. Parion is less known than Troy or Assos, allowing for a quieter visit; it's a good option for those who want to avoid crowded ancient city tourism.
Related discoveries: Historical Sites, Çanakkale historical sites, Suvla Bay.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
Since Parion is an open-air site, it is recommended to avoid the midday heat in summer. Spring and autumn offer a more comfortable visit, both in terms of temperature and the light for the excavation area. Going in the morning is sensible to avoid the heat and crowds. The city is not a frequently visited place anyway, but exploring the dusty area in the summer midday can be tiring.
How to Get There
Going by your own car is the most practical option. From Çanakkale city center, head towards Biga, and after passing Balıklıçeşme village, follow the Parion sign and turn right. The approximately 13 km road via Kemer Village takes 20 minutes. Access with small vehicles is smooth; if you are going by large bus or minibus, be careful of the narrow roads within the village.
How Much Time to Allocate
Parion is not a large-scale ancient city like Troy or Assos. 1-1.5 hours of exploration is sufficient for most visitors. If you also plan to wander around Kemer Village, half a day would be enough. Due to its distance from Çanakkale city center, it makes sense to include it in a day trip program along with other points around Biga.
Route Suggestion
Those coming from Çanakkale towards Biga usually combine Parion with other historical sites in and around Biga. Before entering Kemer Village, it's worth slowing down a bit to see the village's old Greek-Turkish texture. The village houses by the stream offer an interesting stop before the ancient city. The city's two harbors and its location overlooking the Marmara also stand out as photographic spots.
Distance from Çanakkale City Center
Parion is approximately 90 km from Çanakkale city center, so it needs to be planned as a day trip if staying in the city center. For those staying in the center, the area around Demircioğlu Street is a practical base due to its proximity to the bus station and airport; from here, it's easy to head towards Biga.
Things to Pay Attention To
Since excavation work is still ongoing, there may be work barriers or limited access in some areas. The city is an open-air site, do not expect a smooth surface. Sturdy shoes are required. Exploring with a stroller or wheelchair can be challenging, as earthy and stony terrains prevail.
Photography Spots
The part of the city facing the Marmara Sea and the area where the harbor ruins are located offer the chance to frame the sea and ancient ruins together. The old houses by the stream in Kemer Village are another photographic spot to visit along with the city.
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