Behramkale

The acropolis of Assos (Behramkale) is 238 meters above sea level and the Temple of Athena was constructed on this site in the 6th century B.C. This Doric temple is being restored to its former glory and role as guardian of the Biga Peninsula and Edremit Gulf. Linger to see the moonlight scattered through the temples, or rise early for the gentle awakening of dawn over the ruin acropolis, from the top of which you can take in the magnificent vista of the Gulf of Edremit; and you will appreciate why this heavenly location was chosen. On the terraces descending to the sea are agoras, a gymnasium and a theatre. From the northern corner of the acropolis, you can see a mosque, a bridge and fortress, all built in the 14th century by the Ottoman Sultan Murat I. Below lies a tiny and idyllic ancient harbor. Assos has gained the reputation of being the center of the Turkish art community with its lively, friendly and bohemian atmosphere. This may be the holiday you will remember for years to come. 25 km west of Behramkale, in the village of Gulpinar is the ancient city of Chryse where the 2nd century B.C. temple of Apollon Smintheus is located. 15 km west of Gulpinar on an unmarked road along the jagged coastline lies Babakale, a scenic village of houses terraced on a cliff which drops to the sea. The town of Biga has tent its name to its entire peninsula. A town of parks, it is a good place to see houses built in a traditional style. The closest beaches are at Karabiga and 5ahmelek, where you will find reasonably priced accommodations. Karabiga was known in ancient times as Priapos, after the god, and thus has cult and fertility associations. Can is well known for its ceramics and sulphur springs, said to be helpful in various disorders of the liver, intestine and urinary tract. There are two other hot springs at nearby Kalcaler and Kirazli. Kaz Dagi (Mt. Ida, 1,774 meters) is situated at the southern tip of Canakkale by the beautiful Kaz Dagi National Park with magnificent landscapes, restful green areas and several hot springs. At the northern entrance, via Bayramic, and Evciler, to the Kaz Dagi National Park are the main day-camping facilities. In Bayramic, 60 km from Canakkale is the beautiful 18th century Hadimogullari Mansion (Ottoman House) with its ethnography museum.