Assos

City of Philosophers and Panoramic Views

ssos, once home to Aristotle’s philosophy school, offers a unique blend of intellectual heritage and stunning natural beauty. Situated atop a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea, it invites visitors to explore its ancient ruins, including the famous Temple of Athena

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History

Gallery

How to Visit

Explore Nearby Sites

1.History

Assos, an ancient city located on the coast of what is now northwestern Turkey, was a significant site in the Troas region. It faces the island of Lesbos, about 11 km (7 miles) offshore to the south. Assos was founded by Aeolian colonists from Lesbos between 1000 and 900 BC, specifically from Methymna. Throughout its history, the city experienced several rulers: it was under Persian control, became part of the Athenian empire, and later fell under the rule of Alexander the Great, Lysimachus, the kings of Pergamum, and eventually Rome.

The city was significant in early Christianity, as St. Paul visited Assos during his third missionary journey between 53 and 57 AD. Despite its decline after Roman rule, it has continued to exist as a small village, and excavations have revealed various ruins.

Among the most notable structures in Assos is the Temple of Athena, located in the acropolis. Though much of it has been lost over time, a few columns remain, demonstrating the structure’s Doric style, which is typical of Greek architecture. The theatre of Assos, another key structure, is built on the southern slope of the agora, overlooking the Aegean Sea. Dating from the late 4th century BC, the theatre follows the classical Hellenic horseshoe-shaped plan.

Aristotle

One of the most significant historical aspects of Assos is its association with the philosopher Aristotle, who lived and taught in the city around 348 BC. Aristotle founded a Platonic school in Assos and conducted research in biology and zoology. This philosophical school contributed to Assos’s reputation as a center of intellectual thought during ancient times.

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The city’s natural beauty, rich historical layers, and preserved ruins, including the Temple of Athena and the remnants of the Aristotelian school, make Assos a unique blend of historical, cultural, and intellectual heritage.

2.How to get there

Assos is located about 90 kilometers from Çanakkale, on the Aegean coast. You can reach Assos by car following the Çanakkale-Izmir road, or by taking a bus to Ayvacık and then a taxi to the site. The drive takes about 1.5 hours from Çanakkale. Assos is known for its stunning views of the Aegean Sea, and many visitors enjoy combining the trip with a visit to the nearby town of Behramkale.

3.GALLERY

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City walls
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theater
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Assos Temple
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4.Explore Nearby Sites

You can also explore several nearby historical spots around Assos. These close-by attractions offer further insight into the rich history of the region and are easily accessible for visitors wanting to extend their journey:

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