Excursion Assos & troy tour at Canakkale

Troy

Begin with a 30-minute journey from the pier to reach the site of Hisarlik - as Troy is referred to in modern day Turkey. Few realise that this historical city is actually located within the borders of modern Turkey. Once thought to be a mythical city invented by Homer in The Iliad, most historians now accept that Troy was his inspiration for the tale. Alexander the Great declared himself a descendent of Achilles, and made a pilgrimage to Troy in 334 B.C.

Although the city is thought to have been inhabited for up to 5,000 years, few structures remain intact. The remaining sites to be explored include Troy's ancient walls, some palaces and houses, the Roman Theatre, the Pillar House, believed to be the Palace of King Priam, and the giant replica of the Trojan Horse. The epic film Troy has revived interest in this piece of ancient history.

Assos

Assos, also known as Behramkale or in short Behram, is a small and historically rich town in the Ayvacik district of the Canakkale Province of Turkey. Assos has a cultural heritage started by Aristotle, carried on by Saint Paul and the Ottomans that continued into the modern age, creating a destination with a mixture of the classical and modern. Sites here range from the ancient acropolis with stunning views of the Aegean Sea followed by a charming look into authentic Turkish culture in Behramkale's village and marina.

You will walk in the footsteps of Aristotle as you explore the ancient Greek acropolis with such sites as the Theatre of Assos and Temple of Athena (built 2,500 years ago). After studying in Athens under Plato, Aristotle opened an academy of his own here in Assos. Being hundreds of metres above sea level with panoramic ocean views, it is easy to see how this historic site encouraged free-thinking and deep contemplation of life's complexities.

After visiting the site, you will have some free time in the village at a local café overlooking the area before you start the journey to the old harbour, where you will have lunch at one of the boutique hotels located on the seaside. At the end of the tour, you will re-board your coach for a transfer of approximately 30 minutes will return you to Canakkale to board the ship.

Please note: On Voyage# 2613 calling on April 25th, 2016, the Troy portion of the tour will be removed and the duration will be shortened to approximately 5.5 hours. This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles) over steep and uneven surfaces along with several stairs to manage. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing with closed-toe walking shoes, and sun protection. The tour sequence may vary.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Cannakale, Troy, Trojan Horse Replica, Ancient Ruins, Assos, Behramkale, Temple of Athena, Theatre of Assos, Behramkale village and marina.

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