What is…
Troas

also known as: Alexandria Troas, Eski Stambul, Sigeia

This is a large ancient city on the coast of Mysia, in the northwest of Asia Minor, named after ancient Troy, which was at some little distance from it (about 4 miles) to the north. It was a chief port of northwest Asia Minor.

Here Paul, on his second missionary journey, saw the vision of a “man of Macedonia,” who appeared to him, saying, “Come over, and help us” (Acts 16:8-11).

He also visited this place on other occasions, and on one of these visits he left his cloak and some books there (2 Corinthians 2:12; 2 Tim. 4:13).

The ruins of Troas extend over many miles. According to archaeologists the city may have had a population of about 100,000 at its height. Both Julius Caesar and Emperor Constantine considered making Troas the capital of the Roman Empire.1

Ruins of ancient Alexandria Troas, a port city which included a large stadium, an aqueduct, and thermae (bathing and gymnasium facilities) and many other ruins—satellite view

Alexandria Troas was located on the western coast of Turkey, The modern name of the ruins is Eski Stamboul i.e., Old Constantinople.

More information

  1. Siméon Vailhé, “Troas,” in Charles Herbermann (editor), Catholic Encyclopedia, Vol. 15 (New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1912)
Article Version: May 21, 2024