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Located in the Black Sea region, in northern Türkiye, the city of Amasya lies in a narrow valley along the banks of the Yesilirmak River, nestled between the Pontus and Canik mountain ranges. The city is known for its rich history spanning over 7,500 years, with significant traces from ancient times that are still visible today.
Up to roughly 183 B.C.E., Amasya, also known as Amaseia, was a significant ancient metropolis and the capital of the Pontus monarchs. It has archaeological remnants from the Pontic Kingdom, including rock tombs carved into cliffs.
Under the Ottoman Empire, the city was given special status and served as a training ground for princes who governed Amasya to gain expertise in administration. It was also the birthplace of Ottoman sultans Murad I and Selim I.
The city was also a cultural hub and one of the main seats of learning in Anatolia under the Ottomans. Various ethnic communities lived in distinct villages around Amasya, reflecting the empire's diversity.
The Amasya Castle, originally built by the Romans and later developed by the Seljuks and Ottomans, served as a strategic fortification. The current walls and towers largely date from the Ottoman period, especially the 16th century under Suleiman the Magnificent and Murat IV. The castle continues to stand as a testament to the historical significance of the city.
Despite the city’s proximity to the Black Sea, it sits at an elevation of about 400–411 meters, giving it an inland climate rather than a typical coastal one. The terrain is mountainous, and the city itself is nestled in a steep valley, which shapes its distinctive landscape.
The region is ideal for agriculture due to its rich plains and river valleys, particularly for the production of apples, tobacco, peaches, cherries, and okra. Amasya is known as Türkiye's top apple-producing province.
Amasya has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Csa) according to the Koppen classification, and a hot summer oceanic climate (Doa) under the Trewartha classification. The climate combines elements of the continental Mediterranean and Black Sea oceanic regions, with warmer temperatures than central Anatolia and milder winters than inland areas.
The city offers a variety of attractions and is accessible by multiple transport options. The key attraction is the ancient Rock Tombs of the Pontic Kings, carved into cliffs overlooking the Yesilirmak River.
There is also the Amasya Castle on Harsena Mountain offering panoramic views, and the Ottoman-era Yaliboyu Houses lining the riverbanks, many of which have been restored as museums, cafes, and hotels.
Getting to the city by air is possible, as the closest airport is Amasya-Merzifon Airport, which is about 45 kilometers from the city center and has daily flights from Istanbul and other major cities.
Amasya is also accessible by land transport. It is well-connected by highways and railways to major Turkish cities. Regular bus services operate to and from Amasya, making it easy for travelers who prefer land transport.
Amasya also offers a range of accommodations, including boutique hotels in restored Ottoman houses, guesthouses, and modern hotels. There are several cafes and restaurants available, especially along the river, serving local specialities such as manti (Turkish dumplings) and baklava.
Amasya appeals to tourists who are interested in culture and the outdoors because it blends historical significance and scenic beauty with easy access and expanding tourism infrastructure.
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