Tombs of the Kings of Pontus

The stone chambers carved into Mount Harşena contain five principal royal tombs with entrances positioned high on the limestone rock face at different elevations.

The necropolis was established in the 3rd century BC when Mithridates I made Amaseia the capital of the Kingdom of Pontus in northern Anatolia.

The architectural design of the tombs incorporates Greek elements, with some facades featuring four to six columns and others displaying rounded tops without columns.

Access to three of the five tombs requires climbing two separate stone staircases, while the remaining two tombs are reached through a stepped tunnel.

The largest tomb chamber, belonging to Pharnaces I, measures 15 meters in length and contains an altar dedication inscribed by the castle commander Metrodorus.

Location: Amasya Province

Part of: Mount Harşena and the Rock-tombs of the Pontic Kings

GPS coordinates: 40.65360,35.83042

Latest update: May 11, 2025 07:36