08/08/2026
THE THREE PORTS OF CYZICUS: THE LOST GATEWAYS TO THE ANCIENT SEAS
Thousands of years ago, in the region of present-day Erdek and the Kapıdağ Peninsula, Cyzicus was not only a magnificent ancient city but also one of the important maritime and commercial centers of the Propontis, thanks to its three strategic ports.
Today, we know the Gulf of Erdek for its peaceful shores and natural beauty.
But thousands of years ago, these waters were filled with ships arriving from distant lands.
The three ports of Hytos, Panarmos and Thrakikos gave Cyzicus a remarkable strategic advantage, connecting the city to maritime trade routes between the Black Sea, the Aegean and the Mediterranean.
⚓ Hytos Port
Located southwest of the city, Hytos was one of Cyzicus' important commercial ports. Much of its ancient breakwater is now underwater, and its remains can occasionally emerge when the sea level retreats. Beneath the waters of the Gulf of Erdek, traces of a port that witnessed thousands of years of history still remain.
⚓ Panarmos Port
Situated to the south of the city, Panarmos was a naturally protected inner harbor where ships could seek shelter during bad weather. Over time, sediment carried by rivers gradually filled the harbor and weakened Cyzicus' connection with the sea.
⚓ Thrakikos Port
Located southeast of Cyzicus, Thrakikos occupied an important strategic position along the eastern maritime routes. It served not only commercial activities but also military logistics and transportation.
And then, what happened to these magnificent ports?
Over the centuries, sediment carried down from the mountains gradually filled the harbors. Geological changes also transformed Kapıdağ from an island into the peninsula we know today.
As the ancient ports lost their function, maritime activity gradually shifted toward the nearby natural and sheltered harbor of Arteke — present-day Erdek.
Today, when we look across the Gulf of Erdek, we see more than a beautiful blue sea...
Beneath those quiet waters and along these shores lie the traces of a forgotten maritime world — a world of ships, merchants, sailors and ancient journeys.
Perhaps the silence of the sea still carries the memory of the bustling ports of Cyzicus...
Note: The accompanying image was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence to recreate the historical atmosphere of one of the ancient ports of Cyzicus.
