Pegae Castle will shed light on Byzantine history

Pegae Castle, located in the Karabiga district of Biga, Çanakkale, is also known as the ancient city of Priapos. This historical site is expected to provide valuable insights into Byzantine history through ongoing archaeological surface surveys.

With a history spanning nearly a thousand years, Pegae Castle showcases clear signs of the Byzantine era. The castle’s architecture and artifacts reflect the culture and lifestyle of that time. Since 2021, researchers have conducted archaeological surface surveys, which have produced significant scientific results. These findings help us understand the historical context of the region.

Assoc. Prof. Oğuz Koçyiğit leads the surface surveys at Pegae Castle. He emphasizes that the multidisciplinary team has achieved highly productive results. Their findings not only illuminate the region’s history but also have the potential to boost local tourism and contribute to the development of Karabiga.

To explore the site, researchers have employed modern underground imaging techniques and geophysical studies. These advanced methods have uncovered important traces of settlement at Pegae Castle. For instance, the team has discovered remnants of ancient structures and artifacts that provide clues about the lives of the people who once inhabited this area.

After completing the surface surveys, the team plans to start restoration work on Pegae Castle. They aim to enhance the area for tourism, making it accessible and informative for visitors. This restoration will help preserve the castle’s historical significance and attract more tourists to the region.

Assoc. Prof. Koçyiğit explains, “Pegae Castle sits on the northern shores of the region known as Troas in antiquity, along the southern Marmara coast. It is an important Byzantine castle built on the ancient settlement of Priapos, which was a significant city in ancient times. Additionally, we know that a Latin settlement existed here. Recently, we conducted scientific studies and comprehensive surface surveys.

We developed recommendations to protect the crumbling walls and remains of the castle. Furthermore, we performed mortar analyses and underground imaging studies within the castle. Our goal was to identify potential archaeological assets in this area.

For about two years, we have shared the results of these studies with scientists and the public in various scientific environments and platforms. This collaboration helps raise awareness about the historical importance of Pegae Castle.”