Riding the cable car to Amisos Hill in Samsun: Royal tombs and a panoramic view

Toraman Hill, rising within the Baruthane neighborhood of Samsun's İlkadım district, carries more than 2,600 years of history despite its closeness to the city center. The ancient city of Amisos, built on top of the hill, was founded by Milesian colonists in the 6th century BC; it experienced its golden age as one of the administrative centers of the Pontic Kingdom under King Mithridates VI.

Royal tombs uncovered in 1995

Excavations carried out on the hill in 1995 brought to light two tumuli believed to belong to the Pontic royal family. Wooden walkways now lead visitors to the burial chambers, allowing a close look at their interior structure. Valuable finds recovered during the excavations, including buttons, bracelets, a crown, and earrings, are referred to in the literature as the 'Amisos Treasures.'

A 320-metre cable car ride

The most striking way to reach the hill is the cable car line that departs from Batı Park, in service since 2006. Roughly 320 metres long, the line offers a bird's-eye view of Samsun's coastline and harbor during the ride. The hill can also be reached by road, though the cable car remains the most popular option for the different perspective it offers over a short distance.

Visitor information

Amisos Hill has a cafeteria and viewing terraces that overlook Samsun's overall skyline. The hill lies roughly 6 kilometres from the city's main bus terminal, making it an accessible stop for a short trip within the city.

An early-morning cable car ride is often preferred by those looking to avoid crowds and catch Samsun's view in the clearest light. Thanks to its closeness to the city centre, Amisos Hill is a stop that even visitors passing through Samsun for a short time can easily fit into their schedule.

Taken together, the ancient ruins, the royal tombs, and the cable car ride make Amisos Hill one of the rare spots in Samsun where history and scenery meet at the same stop.