Amasra: Turkey’s Hidden Paradise

Explore the seaside town adorned with a unique history, the very city that Homer mentioned as “Sesamus”: Amasra. This place, described by Fatih Sultan Mehmet as the “apple of the world,” is one of the oldest settlements in Anatolia and is eagerly waiting for your discovery.

Journey into the Depths of History

Amasra, deriving its name from the Persian Princess Amastris, has evolved into a more easily pronounced form over time. This quaint coastal town, with its 2 islands, 2 bays, and 5 hills, is one of the oldest settlements in Anatolia. It has been under Pontus, Roman, and Genoese rule, changing hands numerous times throughout history.

Historical Discoveries

Amasra greets its visitors with prehistoric remnants, bridges from the Roman period, and the impressive sight of its castle. The Amasra Castle, constructed in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian II, bewitches its visitors with a magnificent view. The Kuşkayası Road Monument is a Roman-era monument with reliefs carved into a natural rock block, dazzling to the eye. One of the two islands, Rabbit Island, attracts tourists with its unique nature and historical ruins.

Sea and Delights

Amasra is famous not only for its unique seafood but also for its local flavors. Amasra soup, Amasra salad, and fresh fish are just a few of the area’s tastes worth trying. These flavors, which can be enjoyed at seaside restaurants, will take you on a gastronomic journey.

A Touristic Paradise

In the past, the people of Amasra made their living from shipbuilding and hammering. However, these professions lost their importance in the 1920s, and the local people migrated to big cities. The visit of Marshal Fevzi Çakmak to Amasra in 1931, followed by the visit of İsmet İnönü in 1938, opened this small town to tourism. Starting from the 1940s, thanks to tourist groups, the town began to become more lively.

Exploring Amasra means tracing the traces of the past in this peaceful seaside town and finding yourself in the fascinating atmosphere of history. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or just want to take a break and enjoy a nice meal, Amasra is waiting for you.

On your next trip, savor the place Fatih Sultan Mehmet called the “apple of the world.” And who knows, maybe you’ll find yourself saying, “I love Amasra so much.”