| Page Views: 2,724 Last Visit to Amasya: May, 1993 | Amasya by suvanki - last update: Nov 28, 2007 |
Amasya-pronounced ah-MAHSS-yah | Family group under Ataturk Statue Amasya |
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....... |
| River and typical houses of Amasya |
|  | Amasya- some history! 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. |
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| Pros: | "Historical houses, Friendly locals." | | Cons: | "Didn't find any!" | | In A Nutshell: | "One of my favourite Turkish experiences!" |
suvanki's Amasya Travel Tips
| Overview | Things to Do Tips: 2 - Photos: 10 | | | | Restaurants | Hotels & Accommodations | | | | Nightlife | Off The Beaten Path | | | | Tourist Traps | Warnings Or Dangers | | | | Transportation | Local Customs | | | | Packing Lists | Shopping | | | | Sports Travel | General Tips |
Comments for suvanki about Amasya | | | | |
amesian Mon Dec 26, 2005 12:34 UTC 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 ;) | MalenaN Thu Dec 22, 2005 08:09 UTC Amasya is a beautiful city! |
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