Assos Historic Site of Turkey
Assos Historic Site built in the 6th century BC, located in Canakkale province, Assos was famous in antiquity with its sarcophagi. The sole Doric construction in Anatolia sits atop a spectacular hill during this old city.
Assos Turkey built in the 6th century BC, located in Canakkale province, Assos was famous in antiquity with its sarcophagi. The sole Doric construction in Anatolia sits atop a spectacular hill in this old city where Aristotle lived for a long time. Archeological finds from the ruins are seen both at the museum within the site and at the Canakkale Museum, which is one of the most popular museums in Turkey.
The location of the town of Assos is particular with its interplay of the use of the natural environment, combined with the embedding of the architecture. The leading remarkable “landmark” from Assos is the sheer rock-walled acropolis at the very best point of the town. On the side of the acropolis, the temple of Athena is situated, where it could easily be seen when one approaches town from the ocean.
The temple, which encompasses a peripteros plan with 6x13 columns, was built out of andesite blocks carved out of the rocks of the acropolis. Elevated and isolated on the highest of the acropolis, visible from the far dead set sea and commanding panoramic views, the position of the Temple of Athena is breathtaking today because it must have been in antiquity.
Today, the decorative architectural remains of the temple are stored within the collections of the museums in Paris (France), Boston (USA), Istanbul (the largest city in Turkey), and Çanakkale (Turkey).
Historical overview for Assos Turkey
In the 1st millennium BCE The people who live from the nearby island of Lesbos (now in Greece) founded Assos. The 4th century BCE was a period of great prosperity for Assos when Hermeias, a student of Plato, ruled the town, moreover because of the remainder of the Troad peninsula. In 348 BCE Aristotle came to Assos and established a philosophical school where he taught for 3 years.
Alexander the Great, a student of Aristotle, expelled the Persians in 334 BCE, and his successors exercised nominal sovereignty over the town and were acclaimed benefactors. During the years 241-133 BCE, the dominion of Pergamon ruled Assos, after which it absolutely was incorporated into the Roman Empire. Back to Jerusalem on his third missionary journey in 55 AD, Saint Paul walked alone from Alexandria Troas to Assos, where he rejoined colleagues and sailed to Lesbos!
The Best Sightseeing in Assos
The archaeological site entrance is above the mosque at the very best point within the actual town of Behramkale, where you've got to pay the doorway fee. After a walk along the Roman walls and a little cistern, one can reach the acropolis 240 meters above water level, which is a splendid view! With the foundations of an early Dorian order temple dedicated to Athena in 530 BCE.
Down and west of the acropolis stands a well-preserved 4th-century BCE city wall logic gate complete with 14 meter high towers.
Through the gate, an ancient paved road leads right down to an outsized 2nd century BCE gymnasium (52 x 52 meters) adjacent to the ruins of a 5th-6th-century church to the northeast, followed by a 2nd-3rd-century BCE agora complete with Hellenistic period shops and a two-story Doric colonnade to the north.
At last, toward the ocean may be the 3rd century BCE Greek theatre for up to 5000 spectators. West of the gate outside the town walls lies an oversized Greco-Roman necropolis, during which the oldest identified tomb dates back to the 7th century BCE.
Exploring the Coast
Timeless waters caress the ancient shoreline of Assos Turkey, where fishermen's tales and modern pleasures dance upon azure waves.
Best swimming spots
Assos Beach stands out as a serene retreat, with its sheltered waters forming a naturally ideal spot for swimming. Dawn paints the protected cove with golden light. Beach amenities cater to sun-seekers' comfort with umbrellas and chairs, while beneath the surface, snorkelers discover an underwater paradise.
Local fishing culture
Ancient stones tell tales of Assos's fishing heritage through remarkable archaeological treasures. Bronze fishing rods from the 5th century BC rest alongside ornate "fish dish" pottery once graced with fresh catches. Modern fishermen honor ancestral techniques, their methods unchanged by time's passage. Salt-preserved fish once traveled far in amphora vessels, testament to the port's historic significance.
Life pulses through today's harbor as fishing boats rock gently on turquoise swells. Fresh catches journey from net to plate in waterfront tavernas, preserving age-old connections between sea and table. Below the waves, ancient breakwater ruins stand sentinel, bridging past and present maritime traditions. Assos is one of the best places in Turkey, and it’s considered a great reflection of Turkish History!
Top visitor tips
Assos archaeological site is open daily, in the summer season (April - October) from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, and in the winter season, (November - March) from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Near the tiny harbor are some lovely fish restaurants with magnificent sea views. Plan a trip to this city and you will never regret it!
FAQS
Q1. Where is Assos Turkey?
Assos is located in the Çanakkale province of northwestern Turkey, along the Aegean coast. It sits on a hill overlooking the sea, near the modern village of Behramkale.
Q2. How to get to Assos Turkey?
You can reach Assos, Turkey, by car from Istanbul in about six hours or from Izmir in approximately three and a half hours. If traveling by bus, you can take a route to Ayvacık, the nearest town, and then continue with a short taxi or minibus ride to Assos.
Q3. What is the nearest airport to Assos Turkey?
The nearest airport to Assos, Turkey, is Balıkesir Koca Seyit Airport (Edremit Airport), located about 60 km away. Çanakkale Airport is another option, approximately 90 km from Assos. Both airports offer domestic flights.
Q4. What to do in Assos turkey?
In Assos, Turkey, visitors can explore the ancient ruins, including the Temple of Athena and the well-preserved city walls. The picturesque harbor offers charming waterfront dining with fresh seafood, while Assos Beach provides a relaxing spot for swimming and snorkeling. The town’s stone streets and traditional houses create a timeless atmosphere, and nearby Behramkale village offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.