Amasya

Amasya is a historic riverside city in northern Turkey, set in a narrow valley along the Yeşilırmak in the Central Black Sea region. Often called the "City of Princes," it is best known for the rock-cut tombs of the Pontic kings above the river and the well-preserved Ottoman houses lining the waterfront.

Amasya's history reaches back to the Hittites, but the city rose to prominence as the capital of the Kingdom of Pontus and as the birthplace of the geographer Strabo. Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman layers remain visible across the old town, from the cliff tombs and castle to mosques, medreses and bridges.

The Pontic King Rock Tombs and Harşena Castle dominate the southern slope above the Yeşilırmak, while the restored Ottoman mansions of Yalıboyu Evleri face the river. Landmarks such as the Sultan Bayezid II Mosque complex, Amasya Archaeology Museum and the Şehzadeler Museum highlight the city's role as a training ground for Ottoman princes.

The compact centre is easy to explore on foot, especially the riverside promenade and the Hatuniye neighbourhood with its old streets, tea gardens and local restaurants. Amasya is also famous for its sweet, crisp apples and local dishes such as Amasya çöreği and keşkek.

Amasya is a meaningful stop for both leisure and business travellers moving between the Black Sea coast and central Anatolia. It combines an unusually deep cultural heritage with regional trade, apple production and a relaxed provincial atmosphere.