The Ancient City of Perinthos is a port city in Tekirdağ's Marmaraereğlisi district, founded by Samos colonists in the 6th century BC, and it became the capital of the Thracian province during the Roman period; it features acropolis walls, basilica ruins, and mosaics.
Perinthos was founded in the 6th century BC by communities from the island of Samos and, over centuries, became one of the busiest port cities in Eastern Thrace. Prominent as the capital of the Thracian province during the Roman period, the city today lies directly beneath the Marmaraereğlisi district of Tekirdağ; meaning almost the entire modern city is built upon this ancient settlement. As a 1st and 3rd Degree Archaeological Site, Perinthos was therefore not sufficiently researched for many years, only beginning to reveal its true scale with systematic excavations that started in 2021.
While the acropolis walls, bearing architectural traces unique to Thrace, and the lower city walls are notable in the upper part of the city, basilica ruins also offer important findings. It has been determined that the main hall of the basilica was paved with marble, while the side naves and narthex section were covered with mosaics featuring animal and plant motifs. Among visitors, comments suggest that a large part of the area is still underground; visitors state that a much more extensive city awaits beneath the surface than what is visible. It is clear that the picture presented by Perinthos will expand as excavations continue.
Related discoveries: Historical Sites, Tekirdağ historical sites, Dut Limanı Bay.
Guide's Note
What is Perinthos?
Perinthos is one of the most ancient cities in Eastern Thrace. Founded in the 6th century BC by colonists from Samos, an important island state in the Aegean, the city quickly became the region's trade and administrative center thanks to its strategic port location. During Roman rule, Perinthos was known as the capital of the Thracian province, holding great political and economic importance at that time.
Today, the city lies directly beneath the modern fabric of the Marmaraereğlisi district, and for this reason, it has not been sufficiently researched for many years. This ground, where even locals are not allowed to dig deep foundations when building houses, is protected under the status of a 1st and 3rd Degree Archaeological Site. Excavation works, which began in 2021, continue to reveal the true scale of Perinthos.
When to Visit?
The most suitable period to visit Perinthos is spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the area is convenient for touring. In summer, the combination of humidity and heat on the Marmara coast can make staying outdoors for long periods tiring; if you go, prefer the early morning hours. Although the site is open to visitors in winter, finding an active atmosphere may be difficult as excavation works are carried out seasonally.
How to Get There?
The Ancient City of Perinthos is located in the Marmaraereğlisi district of Tekirdağ. It is approximately 35 km from Tekirdağ city center via the D110 highway. Regular minibus services operate from Tekirdağ bus terminal to Marmaraereğlisi; after arriving in the district, you can reach the ancient city area on foot or by taxi.
For those coming from Istanbul, using the E80 highway to Tekirdağ and then the D110 to Marmaraereğlisi is the most practical route. The total distance is approximately 100 km and takes 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic. By public transport, a bus connection can be made from Istanbul to Tekirdağ, and then a minibus connection.
What to Eat, Where to Eat?
Marmaraereğlisi is a small but established fishing town on the Marmara coast. After visiting the ancient city, you can eat fresh fish and seafood at the restaurants along the district's coastline. Meatballs, a symbol of Tekirdağ cuisine, are also readily available in the region; local artisan restaurants in the district center are a good option for lunch.
Photo Spots
At high points near the acropolis walls, it is possible to capture both the ancient city ruins and the Marmara Sea in the same frame. Mosaic fragments in the basilica area offer interesting details for close-up shots. In areas where excavation works are ongoing, unique shots showing ancient stonework can be obtained; however, active excavation areas should not be entered.
Things to Consider
Visitor comments draw attention to maintenance issues in the area; some visitors state that the area is covered with weeds and bushes, and that sufficient arrangements have not been made. Therefore, it is important to wear comfortable walking shoes and pay attention to the ground. Since the area largely consists of open terrain, do not neglect to take sun protection measures.
As excavations are still ongoing, certain parts of the area may be closed from time to time. We recommend obtaining up-to-date information from Marmaraereğlisi Municipality or Tekirdağ Museum before your visit.
How Much Time to Allocate?
Perinthos, in its current accessible state, is suitable for a 1-2 hour visit. Those who also wish to explore Marmaraereğlisi and its coastline can plan for half a day. If combined with other historical sites in Tekirdağ city center, it is possible to create a full-day cultural tour.
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