Happy TravellerWelcome to Sinop, a city with a rich history and stunning natural beauty located on the northernmost edge of the Turkish side of the Black Sea coast. Sinop, historically known as Sinope, has been settled by various civilizations over a period of approximately 2,500 years, including Colchians, Greeks, Romans, and Turkic people. Today, it serves as the capital of Sinop Province and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a unique and authentic travel experience.
One of the main attractions in Sinop is the Sinop Fortress, a fortification surrounding the peninsula and the isthmus of Sinop. It was built initially by migrants from Miletus in the 8th century BC and underwent reparation and expansion to its current extent during the reign of King Mithridates IV of Pontus in the 2nd century BC after its destruction by the Cimmerians in the 7th century BC. Some parts of the fortress, especially the north walls, are ruined. Visitors can also explore the Sinop Fortress Prison, a defunct state prison situated inside the Sinop Fortress. Served between 1887 and 1997, the prison rose to fame when it featured in many literature works of notable authors, who were inmates of the prison for political reasons. It became also a shooting set for many movies and television series. It is a prison museum today.
Another must-see attraction is the Sinop Archaeological Museum, a 1941-established archaeological museum exhibiting artifacts dating back to Early Bronze Age and from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman periods as well. The museum is a great place to learn about the rich history of the city and the surrounding region.
For those interested in religious history, the Balatlar Church is a ruined church from the Byzantine Empire period. It is partly preserved as only the chapel vault is in undamaged condition while other parts of the church have no roof any more. Fresco paintings on the chapels ceiling and on the nave walls are still intact. The Alaaddin Mosque is a 13th-century mosque of Seljuk architecture named after its endower Sultan Alaaddin Kayqubad I (1188–1237).
Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning landscapes surrounding Sinop. The nearby mountainous terrain is green and noted for its timber. The city is located on a promontory at the narrowest point of the Black Sea and has two harbors. The winters are cool and wet, the average for February is just below 7 °C (45 °F). Snowfall is occasional December to March, sometimes lasting a week or two.
Sinop is also known for its delicious local cuisine. Visitors can try traditional dishes such as Sinop Tava, a dish made with lamb, potatoes, and tomatoes, and Sinop Mantısı, a type of dumpling filled with ground beef and served with yogurt and tomato sauce.
In conclusion, Sinop is a city with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, learning about the region’s religious history, or simply enjoying the beautiful landscapes, Sinop has something for everyone. Book your trip today and discover the many treasures of this enchanting destination.
