ÇANAKKALE — The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism officially registered the Battlefield of Granikos and its surrounding areas as a protected "Historical Site" on June 15, 2026. The designation followed a decision by the Çanakkale Regional Board for the Protection of Cultural Heritage and archaeological verification.

Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced the registration on X/Twitter in mid-June 2026. "We have secured the site of the Battle of Granikos, a turning point that changed the course of world history," Ersoy said. "The Battlefield of Granikos, where Alexander the Great achieved his first major victory against the Persians and opened the doors to his campaign into Asia, has now been officially registered as a 'Historical Site.'"

Prior to the board's decision, archaeological and scientific surveys evaluated whether the site met the criteria for designation as a historic site. Researchers formally identified the site of the Battle of Granikos in 2025. The site is situated within the boundaries of the Karabiga township in the Biga district of Çanakkale.

Reyhan Körpe, an archaeology professor at Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, commented on the historical context. "The Battle of Granicus was not only one of the most significant turning points in Alexander's life, later earning him the epithet 'the Great,' but [was] also a pivotal moment in world history," Körpe said. Her team discovered the remains of the ancient city of Hermaion, which provided additional evidence for the battlefield's location. Historical records indicate Hermaion served as Alexander the Great's final encampment before his battle with the Persians. A 19th-century archaeologist, Heinrich Kiepert, had previously suggested the area near the Biga River as the battlefield's location.

Ersoy also stated, "I believe this important step, which will add value to Çanakkale's cultural heritage, will make significant contributions to historical science, cultural tourism, and the strengthening of our cultural routes."

Why It Matters

The official registration of the Battlefield of Granikos as a "Historical Site" recognizes an ancient military encounter. The Battle of Granikos is identified as the location of Alexander the Great's initial major victory against the Persian forces. The designation aims to enhance Çanakkale's cultural heritage and is expected to support historical research, cultural tourism, and regional cultural routes.