Çanakkale is a city and seaport in Turkey on the southern shore of the Dardanelles at their narrowest point. Its population is 143,622 (2021).
Çanakkale is the nearest major urban centre to the ancient city of Troy, which (together with the ancient region of the Troad) is also located inside Çanakkale Province. The wooden horse the 2004 movie Troy is exhibited on the Çanakkale waterfront.
Today Çanakkale is the main base for visits to the ruins of Troy and to the First World War cemeteries at Gallipoli. Particularly around 18 March and 25 April (ANZAC Day) when there are major celebrations of the events of the war the town is heavily visited.
Çanakkale was originally the site of an Ottoman fortress called Kal'a-i Sultaniye. 'fortress of the sultan'; Turkish: Sultaniye Kalesi). From the late 17th century onwards it became known for its glazed Çanakkale ceramics, compared by the traveler Richard Pococke to Delftware, hence the later name Çanak Kalesi "Pottery Castle". This was adopted as the official name for the town in 1890, although having already been in use a century earlier.
The Greek-Byzantine name for Çanakkale was Dardanellia, which the English name Dardanelles is derived. Many accounts by 19th-century visitors to the town refer to it as Dardanelles.
From around 1920, the British began to call Çanakkale 'Chanak' and 'Kale Sultanie' in their reporting.
Troy, located in Çanakkale, Turkey, is one of the most famous ancient cities, known for its role in Homer’s epic, the "Iliad," which tells the story of the Trojan War. Founded over 4,000 years ago, Troy was a thriving city at the crossroads of East and West. The archaeological site reveals multiple layers of settlement, showing its long history of destruction and rebuilding. Highlights include the ancient city walls, gates, and the remnants of a palace. Today, Troy is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors fascinated by its legendary past and historical significance.
The Trojan Horse in Çanakkale, Turkey, is a large wooden replica commemorating the legendary wooden horse the ancient city of Troy. It was a gift the production team of the 2004 film Troy, starring Brad Pitt. The replica stands near the Çanakkale waterfront and has become a popular tourist attraction. Visitors come to see this modern tribute to one of history’s most famous myths. The structure serves as a symbol of the region’s connection to the ancient tale of the Trojan War, offering a visual link to Troy’s legendary past.
The Çanakkale Monument of Martyrs, located in Turkey, commemorates the soldiers who lost their lives during the Gallipoli Campaign in World War I. Erected in 1954, this impressive structure honors the bravery and sacrifice of the Ottoman troops who fought valiantly against Allied forces in 1915. The monument features a striking design with four large pillars and a prominent stone archway, symbolizing unity and resilience. Surrounding the monument, visitors can find memorial plaques and serene gardens, making it a poignant site for reflection. It attracts numerous tourists and locals, serving as a powerful reminder of Turkey's military history.
