'Çanakkale: Tracing the Steps of Voyagers' is a highly ambitious yet equally challenging subject. This is because Çanakkale and its surrounding region have witnessed events that have shaped world history, culture, and literature from prehistoric times to the present. One of the most difficult decisions to make at the beginning of such a study was determining under which main themes and periods the travelers visiting the region should be examined. A review of previous research reveals that the most significant reference point not only for Çanakkale but also for the Aegean—and even the Mediterranean—region is a city and its epic:

TROY AND THE EPICS OF HOMER

Almost everyone who traveled through the Aegean region, its islands, or the straits has mentioned the geography that gave rise to the story of Troy. For this reason, it was quite difficult to make a selection. As a starting point, I chose that “eternal city.” I compiled a selection from travelers who left their mark on the waters and lands of Çanakkale over a period spanning more than 800 years, from 1103 to 1913. In doing so, I also tried to include memories and anecdotes that highlighted the city itself.read more

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