"Amasya" Amasya by suvanki

Amasya Travel Guide: 122 reviews and 411 photos

Family group under Ataturk Statue Amasya

Amasya-pronounced ah-MAHSS-yah

Planning out my trip around Turkey, back in 1993, I came across pictures of the old houses of Amasya, balancing by the riverside- Straight away, this town was added to my list of places I 'Had to See'!

Arriving late evening, from Ankara, via Samsun by bus, I checked into my hotel, then set out in search of food, then an early night to catch up on much needed sleep.

Next day, up bright and early to explore- I had most of the day, as my bus to Trabzon wasn't booked until late afternoon.

I enjoyed a breakfast of fresh orange juice, cay and a pastry at a modern pattisserie overlooking the river, before starting my look around Amasya.

Although it was May, the weather was still quite cool, and the high swirling waters of the river indicated there had been much rain, as well as the snow melting from the distant mountains.

Wandering along the streets, I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere.
(A change from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and Ankara).

Stepping into the museum, I was the only visitor, the curator was friendly, and pointed out items of interest, even opening a door, that led straight onto the riverside. Of particular interest to me were the old costumes, especially the high platform shoes, designed to keep the wearers feet dry!

To be continued.......

Amasya- some history!

River and typical houses of Amasya

Originally the capital of this province of the Pontic kings- evidence of their inhabitation can still be seen in the rock tombs above Amasya.

Alexandra The Great conquored the town in Hittite times!
The Roman conquorors collected Amasya into the area known as Asia Minor, which engulfed Anatolia.
Later, The Byzantines, Seljuks and Mongols invaded and built up the town.
During Ottoman times, the town developed further, both as an important Theological centre, and as a military base for invasions into Persia.

This Anatolian valley town sits astride the banks of The Yesil Irmak -translated as The Green River, surrounded by mountains.

The main purpose for visitors to Amasya is for either viewing the Pontic caves, or admiring the old Ottaman houses that add to the attractiveness of this Anatolian town.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Historical houses, Friendly locals.
Cons:Didn't find any!
In a nutshell:One of my favourite Turkish experiences!

Last visit to Amasya: May 1993
Intro Updated Nov 28, 2007
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Reviews (2)

Old Ottoman houses, Amasya, Turkey - Amasya

Typical Ottoman Riverside Houses Things to Do (2)

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Ataturk Statue Things to Do (2)

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Comments (3)

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cachaseiro May 1, 2010 at 4:24 PM

amasya is a fantastic town. i had a turkish girlfriend back in 1998 who had her parents living there so i have been there on "family visits".
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amesian Dec 26, 2005 at 4:34 AM

Thnx 4 the page about my home-town.i am happy to hear that you liked it.But it has improved a lot in recent years in a good way.still the hidden gem of Turkey ;)
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MalenaN Dec 22, 2005 at 12:09 AM

Amasya is a beautiful city!