Why was Troy’s position near the Dardanelles strategically important?

Ancient Troy’s strategic importance stemmed from its command over two critical lines of communication at the southern entrance to the Dardanelles (Hellespont).1

• Maritime Control: The city sat at the entrance to the narrow strait that links the Aegean Sea with the Black Sea via the Sea of Marmara. This position allowed the city to potentially exact tolls from trading vessels and travelers passing through the strait.1
• Land Control: Troy also commanded a vital land route that ran north along the west Anatolian coast and crossed the narrowest point of the Dardanelles into Europe.1

By positioning itself astride these maritime and terrestrial routes, Troy functioned as a powerful gatekeeper between the Mediterranean and the regions surrounding the Black Sea.12