A Historic Day in the Heart of Amasya: A Family Discovery Route

Amasya, embraced by the Yeşilırmak River, is a city that attracts travelers of all ages with its history-filled streets. This one-day route takes you on a fun and informative family discovery of the 7 most important stops in the heart of Amasya. With these stops within walking distance, you will witness the city's ancient past up close.

Alçak Köprü (Low Bridge)

Start your Amasya trip at Alçak Köprü, one of the oldest witnesses of the Yeşilırmak River. This cut-stone bridge from the Roman period reflects ancient engineering knowledge with its four arches and triangular cutwaters. Named for the river's rising level over time, this bridge offers beautiful photo opportunities against the backdrop of the King Rock Tombs and historic riverside mansions. You can spend about an hour and a half walking on the bridge and observing the surroundings.

Magdinus and Helkis Bridges

Right next to Alçak Köprü, the Magdinus and Helkis Bridges, stretching over the Yeşilırmak River, are also historical structures from the Roman period that have survived to the present day. Known by different names such as Maydonoz, Madenüs, or Kuş Köprü among the public, these stone bridges have connected the two sides of Amasya for centuries. While strolling on these pedestrian-friendly bridges, it can be enjoyable to imagine the city's hustle and bustle in ancient times. About an hour and a half will be sufficient.

Kızlar Sarayı (Maidens' Palace)

Carved into the steep cliffs of Harşena Mountain north of the Yeşilırmak River, Kızlar Sarayı has a deep-rooted history extending from the ancient Pontus period to Ottoman princes. Located just below the King Rock Tombs, this historical site attracts attention with its panoramic views dominating the city. While wandering among the palace ruins, which also saw additions like baths during the Ottoman period, you can experience Amasya's layered history and unique scenery for about an hour and a half.

Saraçhane Mosque

As you descend towards the city center after Kızlar Sarayı, you will encounter Saraçhane Mosque, built in 1372 by Amasya Emir Şadgeldi Pasha. This historical mosque, distinguished by its stone and brickwork, is also known as Şadgeldi Pasha Mosque among the public. It received this name because it was located in an area where saddlers were concentrated in the past. You can visit the mosque's simple but impressive architecture within about an hour and a half.

Amasya Bedesteni (Covered Bazaar)

Within walking distance of Saraçhane Mosque, Amasya Bedesteni is a covered bazaar built in 1483 by Hüseyin Ağa, the guardian of Bayezid II. This Ottoman-era structure, located next to Taşhan, has undergone changes over the centuries but sheds light on Amasya's trade history. You can allocate about an hour and a half to get lost in the atmosphere of the bedesten and feel the spirit of old bazaars.

Amasya Taşhan

Built in 1699, Amasya Taşhan is one of the important examples of Ottoman-era caravanserai architecture in Amasya. This historical building, located in the city center near the Yeşilırmak River, stands out with its thick stone walls and large courtyard. Today, Taşhan serves as a hotel and restaurant, offering both accommodation within history and the opportunity to taste local delicacies. You can spend about an hour and a half here and have lunch.

Burmalı Minare Mosque and Cumudar Tomb

As the last stop of your Amasya trip, visit the Burmalı Minare Mosque, located behind the Coppersmiths' Bazaar. Completed in 1243, this Seljuk-era structure has a unique originality rarely seen in Anatolian architecture, with spiral flutes wrapping around its minaret. The octagonal-bodied Cumudar Tomb next to the mosque is also worth seeing. You can allocate an hour and a half to explore this special structure and tomb.

After completing this route in the center of Amasya, you can take a walk along the Yeşilırmak River and have dinner at restaurants offering local delicacies. Since all stops are within walking distance, you will not need public transportation. Don't forget to check the websites of the venues for current opening hours and entrance fees.