Troy (Hisarlik)

The site, located in northwestern Anatolia in modern-day Turkey, was extensively excavated by Heinrich Schliemann beginning in 1871. Schliemann was convinced that this mound held the ruins of the ancient city of Troy described in Homer's epics. His controversial methods destroyed parts of the site, but he ultimately proved the city's historical existence.

Archaeological digs have revealed multiple layers of settlements spanning the Early Bronze Age to the Byzantine era, traditionally categorized into nine distinct layers. Troy VI and Troy VII are most commonly associated with the Late Bronze Age period depicted in Greek mythology. The layers demonstrate thousands of years of continuous habitation.

Heinrich Schliemann discovered a cache of gold and artifacts, which he named the 'Treasure of Priam,' believing it belonged to the legendary king of Troy. The artifacts were actually from a much earlier period than the Trojan War, dating back to Troy II. The treasure was controversially smuggled out of Turkey and later seized by Soviet forces.

Yes, the site is a popular tourist destination and features a wooden replica of the legendary Trojan Horse at the entrance. Visitors can walk through the various excavation trenches and observe the ancient city walls. The site was officially inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.