The Lost City of Troy | Full Documentary | TRACKS

Recent questions

• What is the significance of the recent excavation at Hisarlak?

  The recent excavation at Hisarlak in Turkey has revealed a larger Bronze Age city that matches Homer's description of Troy. This discovery provides strong evidence of Troy's existence at the site, as indicated by findings such as advanced technology, earthquake-proof structures, evidence of warfare, and a bronze seal with Luwian hieroglyphs linking Hisarlak to Troy. The site's layers spanning from 3000 BC to late Roman times present a challenging excavation process, likened to delicate surgery by the archaeologist leading the dig, Manfred Kaufman. The advanced technology and earthquake-proof structures found at the site suggest a sophisticated ancient society, shedding light on the historical significance of the excavation at Hisarlak.

• How does the location of Hisarlak differ from Homer's description of Troy?

  The location of Hisarlak differs from Homer's description of Troy, as the ruins suggest that the city stood closer to the sea, surrounded by swampy land during the Trojan War era. This proximity to the sea enabled trade and wealth, matching Homer's description of Troy as a wealthy port. The discovery of marine sediments beneath farmland indicates that the area was once underwater, suggesting a different landscape from what was described in Homer's epic. Despite this discrepancy in location, the evidence found at Hisarlak, such as the bronze seal with Luwian hieroglyphs and signs of warfare, strongly supports the identification of the site as Troy.

• What evidence supports the existence of Troy at Hisarlak?

  The existence of Troy at Hisarlak is supported by various pieces of evidence uncovered during the recent excavation. These include the discovery of a larger Bronze Age city that matches Homer's description of Troy, advanced technology, earthquake-proof structures, evidence of warfare, and a bronze seal with Luwian hieroglyphs linking Hisarlak to Troy. The findings at the site, spanning from 3000 BC to late Roman times, provide a comprehensive historical timeline that aligns with the narrative of Troy as depicted in ancient texts like the Iliad. The presence of these archaeological artifacts and structures offers strong evidence of Troy's existence at Hisarlak.

• How did Illium decline and ultimately lead to its abandonment?

  Illium, the historical shrine dedicated to the Trojan War, faced decline due to various factors that ultimately led to its abandonment by the 5th century A.D. The silting up of its harbor resulted in a loss of trade and wealth, diminishing its importance as a wealthy port city. Additionally, the rise of Christianity and natural disasters further contributed to Illium's decline, leading to a fall from favor among the rich and powerful. The abandonment of Illium by the 5th century A.D. marked the end of its significance as a cultural and historical site, highlighting the impact of environmental, social, and religious changes on ancient cities like Troy.

• What comparisons can be drawn between Ephesus and Illium?

  Ephesus, a city along the Turkish coast, provides a glimpse of what Illium might have looked like, boasting grand architecture and public buildings that offer a comparison to Troy's appearance. The similarities between Ephesus and Illium suggest a shared cultural and architectural heritage in the region, reflecting the influence of ancient civilizations on urban development. Both cities showcase advanced infrastructure, religious sanctuaries, and evidence of trade and wealth, indicating a thriving ancient society. The comparison between Ephesus and Illium highlights the interconnectedness of historical sites in Turkey and the broader Mediterranean region, shedding light on the cultural and architectural legacy of ancient civilizations.