Amisos Hill and the Royal Tumulus Tombs

🏛️ Amisos Hill and the Royal Tumulus Tombs – The Ancient Royal Heritage of Samsun

📍 General Information

• 🌍 Location: Baruthane Neighborhood, İlkadım District, Samsun, Turkey

• ⛰️ Elevation: Approximately 90 meters above sea level

• 🏺 Period: Hellenistic Period (3rd–2nd century BC)

• 🏛️ Associated City: Ancient Amisos, an important Black Sea port city

Amisos Hill is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Samsun. It is particularly known for its royal tumulus tombs dating back to the Pontus Kingdom, reflecting the power and wealth of the ruling elite.

🕰️ Historical Background

• 🏺 Founded: Amisos was established in the 6th century BC by Milesian colonists.

• 👑 Later came under Persian, Hellenistic, and Pontic rule.

• 🏛️ In the 1st century BC, the city fell under Roman control.

During the Pontus Kingdom, Amisos became a major trade center along the Black Sea coast. Members of the royal family and high-ranking officials were buried in monumental tombs constructed on the hill.

⚱️ The Tumulus (Royal Tombs)

• 🔎 Discovery: Accidentally uncovered in 1995 during illegal excavations.

• 🏗️ Structure: Two main tumulus tombs have been identified.

• 🧱 Architecture:

  • Stone-block constructed burial chambers

  • Barrel-vaulted ceilings

  • Narrow entrance corridors (dromos)

• 💎 Artifacts Found:

  • Gold jewelry

  • Glass and ceramic objects

  • Bronze items

  • Weapon fragments

These artifacts are currently exhibited at the Samsun Archaeology and Ethnography Museum.

🚡 Touristic Features

• 🚠 Cable Car Access: Visitors can reach Amisos Hill by cable car from Batıpark.

• 🌊 Panoramic Viewpoint: Offers spectacular views of the Black Sea and Samsun cityscape.

• 🌳 Walking Areas: Landscaped recreational spaces ideal for relaxation.

• 🌙 Night Illumination: The tombs are illuminated, creating an impressive evening atmosphere.

🕒 Visitor Information (2025)

🌟 Cultural Significance

Amisos Hill and its Royal Tumulus Tombs are among the most important Hellenistic burial monuments in the Black Sea region.
They represent the political authority and economic strength of the Pontus Kingdom, demonstrating that Samsun’s history extends far beyond the modern era.

Today, the site offers visitors a rare combination of archaeology, panoramic views, and cultural heritage, making it one of the must-see attractions in Samsun.