7. The Excavations of Heinrich Schliemann
In the late 19th century, Heinrich Schliemann embarked on a quest that would redefine the understanding of Troy’s existence. Driven by a passion for Homeric epics, Schliemann conducted extensive excavations in the region of Hisarlik, in present-day Turkey. His efforts led to the discovery of multiple layers of ancient settlements, which he boldly identified as the fabled city of Troy. Despite criticism over his methods, which some deemed destructive, Schliemann’s work provided tangible evidence of a once-thriving city. His findings sparked renewed interest and debate about the historical basis of the Trojan War, bridging myth and archaeology.
