Before Schliemann began his archaeological investigations at Hissarlik in 1870, many scholars believed that Troy was a mere figment of Homer's imagination. The story of the Trojan War, as it was described in the Iliad and the Odyssey, lacked corroboration from reliable historical sources, and the ancient city's geographical position had never been determined.Excavating entirely at his own expense, Schliemann discovered multiple cities built one above the other after periodic destruction by earthquake, fire, or war. The golden treasure he found there dazzled the world and led to an understanding of the historical period now known as the Bronze Age.The present volume is Schliemann's own account of his discoveries at Troy, including a brief but fascinating autobiographical sketch. It also contains his reply to critics of his decision to deceive the Turkish authorities, smuggling his discoveries to safety in the west. He defends his actions on the grounds that these objects belong in museu