Filyos Tios Ancient City is an ancient port city located on the Black Sea coast in Çaycuma, Zonguldak, founded by Milesian colonists in the 7th century BC. With its acropolis, theater, bath, and harbor ruins, it is the best-preserved archaeological settlement in the region; admission is free.
Tios is a port city founded just east of where the Filyos River flows into the Black Sea. It was established by Milesian colonists in the second half of the 7th century BC, then successively came under the rule of the Lysimachus Kingdom, Bithynia and Pontus kingdoms, and from 70 BC, Rome. During the Byzantine period, it became an episcopal center, and after 1261, it fell into the hands of the Genoese, and in the early 15th century, the Ottomans. According to sources, it is the only example among the Greek-Roman cities on the Black Sea coast that has not been covered by modern settlements or alluvium. This makes the urban fabric more legible than others.
Excavations ongoing since 2006 have unearthed an acropolis with structural remains dating to the 6th century BC, a medieval church, a Roman temple in the Corinthian order, and a burial chapel from the 10th-12th centuries to its west. The area also features traces of an ancient harbor and breakwater, a Roman theater, bath structures, aqueduct remains, a fountain, and a necropolis area. Visitors most frequently highlight the view from the observation terrace, from where the breakwater remains by the sea are visible. It is said that there was a secret passage under the sea-facing part of the castle in the past, but this is a rumor; it is not confirmed in excavation reports.
There is a recurring point in the comments: the site is found to be poorly maintained. Many write that weeds extend among the artifacts and that the lizard density can be disturbing. In contrast, the sunset and sea view are details praised by almost everyone. Some visitors complain about the attitude of the security guard. Such experiences can vary from person to person; it would be more realistic to base your expectations on the scenery and historical atmosphere rather than archaeological richness before visiting.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Zonguldak, Historical Places, Historical places in Zonguldak, Kapuz Beach.
Guide's Note
When to Visit
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable periods. In summer, the grass grows tall and the number of lizards increases, which bothers some visitors. Those who go towards sunset write that they capture the best view at this time. It's hard to find shade in the midday heat, so morning or late afternoon might be preferred.
How to Get There
It's about 30 km from Zonguldak city center, taking 55 minutes by car. When coming from the Çaycuma direction, it appears on your way; those coming from the Türkali side see it on the left side of the road after passing the central market. There are potholes on the road near the entrance, so you need to adjust your speed. If you don't have your own car, it's possible to take minibuses from Çaycuma to Filyos and complete the last part on foot.
How Much Time to Allocate
The area is not large, 45 minutes to 1.5 hours is sufficient. Those who love taking photos might stay longer on the observation terrace. If you add Filyos beach to the same day, half a day will easily be filled.
Route Suggestion
Visitors to Filyos usually visit the beach first, then the ancient site. The beach in front of the castle is mentioned in comments for its clean water and suitability for swimming; a logical sequence for those who want to swim after visiting the ancient site. Stopping in Çaycuma center for lunch can also be easily added to the route.
Things to Consider
A frequently mentioned topic in comments: the maintenance of the area is poor, with weeds extending among some of the ruins. Lizard density is also noted in summer; if this bothers you, go knowing this. Wearing closed shoes will make it easier to walk on the stony and uneven ground. Some visitors complain about the attitude of the security personnel. If you experience such an incident, it is recommended to remain calm and continue your visit.
Photo Spots
The frame looking out to sea from the observation terrace is the most shared image; the ancient breakwater remains are also visible from here. The stone rows of the theater ruins and the view of Filyos from the upper part of the acropolis are also preferred for photography. During sunset hours, the light brings out the texture of the stones more clearly.
Brief History
Tios begins as a port city founded by Milesian colonists in the 7th century BC. It successively came under the rule of Lysimachus, Bithynia, and Pontus kingdoms, and then Rome (70 BC). It became an episcopal center in Byzantium, and from 1261, it was part of the Genoese territories, and from the early 15th century, the Ottoman Empire. The city, which turned into a small fishing village during the Ottoman period, is now being brought to light again through excavations.
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