Cıngırt Kayası Settlement is an ancient settlement built on rock blocks in Yapraklı village, 5 km from Fatsa district of Ordu. Dating back to the Hellenistic Period, it is one of the lesser-known archaeological sites of the Black Sea with its rock tombs, tunnel, and wall remains.
Cıngırt Kayası is built on a rock mass rising within the borders of Yapraklı village, approximately 5 kilometers south of Fatsa. This settlement, which was within the borders of the Pontus region in ancient times, is located on a sheltered hill. It is clearly a place chosen for defensive purposes. A tunnel, rock tombs, niches carved into the rock, and wall remains stand out in the settlement. Scattered pottery fragments are also found on the surface.
The area, also referred to as Cıngırt Castle, has archaeological site status. Traces unearthed by excavations show that it has a history dating back to the Hellenistic Period. Since it is located within a forested hill, a visit is like a walk opening up to both history and nature.
It is not a crowded tourist stop. It is more of a destination for history enthusiasts, archaeology students, and those looking for a quiet route around Fatsa. It can be combined with Fatsa city center and the coastline when visiting the region.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Ordu, Historical Places, Historical places in Ordu, İteniçi Recreation Area.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
Since it is located in a forested and rocky area, spring and autumn months are preferable. In summer, the vegetation becomes dense, and in winter, the path gets muddy. The ground can become slippery on days after rain, so check the weather beforehand.
How to Get There
From Ordu center to Fatsa is approximately 33 km by road. From Fatsa, there is a distance of about 5 km to Yapraklı village, which can be reached by private vehicle. Since the area is on a hill after the village, the last part is covered by walking, climbing a forest path. Road signs can be limited, so confirming directions with a local person is helpful.
How Much Time to Allocate
The area itself is not large. Visiting the tunnel, rock tombs, and wall remains takes 1-2 hours. While in Fatsa, a half-day plan can be made to include the coast and the city center.
Route Suggestion
Stopping at Cıngırt Kayası on the way out from Fatsa center and taking a break on the Fatsa coast on the way back is a logical sequence. For those looking for other ancient traces in the region, a day route combined with other Pontus period remains in Ordu can also be considered.
Things to Pay Attention To
The terrain is uneven and rocky, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. There may not be staff or information boards in the area; getting some information beforehand makes the experience easier. It is important not to damage the rock tombs and the tunnel, and to leave the area as it is.
Good Spots for Photos
Due to its location on the hill, wide-angle shots of the Fatsa countryside can be taken from around the rock mass. The entrance to the tunnel and the details of the rock tombs are also interesting for those looking for historical texture.
About the Area
Cıngırt Kayası is a settlement with archaeological site status. Traces revealed by excavations show that the area has a history dating back to the Hellenistic Period. The castle structure, tunnel, rock tombs, and niches are tangible remains of this past.
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