Parion (Parium) Ancient City

Parion (Parium) Ancient City

Parion is an ancient village located in the Kemer region of the Biga District in Çanakkale Province. The origin of its name is not clear, but one theory suggests that it may have been named after Parion, the son of Iason or Demetria from Erythrai, or even Paris, the prince of Troy.

In 546 BC, Parion became a Greek city under Persian rule, and later in 334 BC, it fell under the sovereignty of Alexander the Great after he invaded Asia Minor. The city's theatre, odeion, and baths are solid evidence of its historical significance during this period.

Parion (Parium) Ancient City

Starting in the 5th century AD, Parion became a city inhabited by Christians and an important Bishopric center during the Byzantine period due to the presence of various priests who were sent there. Notably, during the reign of Emperor Constantine Porphyrogennetos (911-959 AD), the city became the Archbishopric Center, marking an important period for Christianity in Parion.

Parion, an ancient city located in Kemer, Biga District of Çanakkale Province, has undergone archaeological surveys, excavation, and restoration led by different teams of experts. Professor Dr. Cevat Başaran's team conducted excavations in 1997, 1999, and 2002, while Professor Dr. Vedat Keleş from the Archeology Department of the Ondokuz Mayıs University has been leading the efforts since 2015.

Archaeological work in Parion started with systematic excavations in 2005, directed by Professor Dr. Cevat Başaran. However, Professor Dr. Vedat Keleş has been leading the excavations since 2015. These excavations have provided insight into the social life and public realm of the ancient city. As the excavations continue, archaeologists are discovering new mounds and cultural artifacts, contributing to our understanding of this historic site.