Zile

Zile

Zile, located 62 km away from the city center of Tokat, is a settlement that has been shaped by various cultures throughout history, including the Hittites, Phrygians, Persians, Pontus, Romans, and Byzantines. Today, the town is home to a number of artifacts from different periods, including the Hittites, Seljuks, Phrygians, Persians, Romans, Ilkhanids, Danishmends, and Ottomans.

Zile

In 49 BC, a civil war erupted between Julius Caesar and Pompey, which distracted the Romans from the actions of Pharnaces II of Pontus, who sought to avenge his father. Pharnaces attacked Zela, but his campaign was ultimately defeated by Julius Caesar in a bloody battle in 47 BC. This victory solidified Caesar's dominance, and he famously sent a message to the Roman Senate stating "Veni Vidi Vici," which translates to "I came, I saw, I conquered." A marble column inscribed with these words was placed within the city castle, where it can still be seen today.

The Zile Castle, which is believed to be of Roman origin, features an acropolis built on a mound and can be seen from anywhere in the town center. Inside the castle, there are various ruins to explore.