Amasya Castle

Amasya Castle

Amasya Castle, also known as Harşena Castle, is a historic fortress located in the northern region of Turkey. Throughout its existence, the castle has undergone numerous attacks, changes of ownership, and restorations, dating back to the Persian, Roman, Pontic, and Byzantine eras. Following the Ottoman conquest of Amasya, significant restoration work was undertaken on the castle, which remained in use until the 18th century, when it lost its military significance.

Amasya Castle

The castle complex boasts an array of features, including cisterns, water tanks, Turkish bath ruins (known as "Hamam") that reflect the Ottoman Empire, rock tombs of Pontus kings, armouries, warehouses, mosques, and dungeons. Visitors can also climb the 150 steps of Cilanbolu, which have a diameter of 8 meters.

On the southern hillside of the castle, visitors can explore the ruins of the "Kızlar Sarayı" (Maidens' Palace), which was used during the Ottoman era. At a height of around 20-25 meters, there are 18 large and small limestone tombs of the Pontus kings carved into the plain wall. The castle itself features four gates, each with dungeons, cisterns, and wells. Overall, Amasya Castle is a fascinating historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich and diverse past.