Amasya is one of the provinces in Central
Anatolia of Turkey which is distinct both with its natural setup and historical
values it holds. It was the homeland of the famous geographer Strabo. Located
in a narrow cleft of the Yesilirmak (Iris) river, it has a past of 3000
years during which many civilizations left priceless
remains of their times.
The ruins of the citadel on the rock face of the cleft shelters 2000 year old water-channels, 1000 year old bridges, a mental hospital, an Ottoman Palace and a secret underground passageway. On the rock faces there are impressive rock tombs of the Pontus kings, which contribute very much to the attractiveness of the city. At night, when they are illuminated, the view is unforgettable.
The city also has many historically and architecturally precious buildings; the Ferhat water channel, the 13th century Seljuk Burmali Mosque, the 15th century Yildirim Beyazit Mosque and Complex; the 14th century Ilhanli Bimarhane Mental Hospital with lovely relieves around its portal, the extraordinary octagonal Kapi Aga Medrese (theological school), the Torumtay Mausoleum and the Gök Medrese. There are traditional Turkish mansions which have been well-preserved showing the best examples of Turkish architecture. The 19th century Hazeranlar Mansion has been restored perfectly and now it is of great interest with an art gallery on its first floor and an ethnographical museum on the second. The Archaeological Museum of Amasya has an interesting collection including the mummies of the Ilhanli rulers of Amasya.
As for natural beauty, Amasya is set apart from the rest of Anatolia
in its tight mountain valley and hides its own secret beauty. Lake Borabay
(65 kms northeast of Amasya) is a crater lake with an amazing view and
fresh air. It is a perfect area for fishing (especially trout), for picnicking
and for being alone with nature and doing some sports. Yedikir Dam Lake and Omarca National
Park are other excursion sites. Terzikoy spa center, a thermal resort,
is also worth a visit.
Amasya was also one of the Turkish cities which had the best viewing location for the last total solar eclipse of the 20th century which happened on 11th August 1999. Many visitors came to the city to witness this spectacular event. Now, on 29th March 2006, there will be another total solar eclipse in this city wich can be seen at 14:06pm local time.
. .
|