Lampsacus, Archaeological site near Lapseki, Turkey
Lampsacus is an archaeological excavation on the eastern coast of the Hellespont near Lapseki, where ruins from different historical periods have been uncovered. The site displays the remains of buildings, harbor structures, and other installations that developed over many centuries.
The city was founded around 654 BC by settlers from Phokaia and quickly grew into a major port for sea trade. It later minted its own coins and played a role under Alexander the Great before eventually falling under Byzantine rule.
The coins and decorative objects found here show this was an important trading hub where people from different cultures met and exchanged goods. You can see through these finds how daily life and commerce shaped the community.
The best way to reach the excavation is to take a bus from Istanbul to Lapseki and then follow the marked trail from the town. Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven and requires walking to explore the site properly.
A substantial treasure of silver objects was discovered here in 1847 and later distributed to major museums. Portions of this valuable collection can be seen today in London, Paris, and Istanbul.
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