Tokat

Last Updated: 02.12.2025

About the City

Tokat is a historic and culturally rich city located in the interior regions of Türkiye’s Black Sea Region. It has been an important settlement since ancient times, bearing traces from the Hittite, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods.

The city derives its name from the ancient settlement established at the foot of Tokat Castle. Situated on fertile lands watered by the Kelkit and Yeşilırmak rivers, Tokat holds significance both in agriculture and history.

Tokat is a city rich in both nature and history. One of its most prominent structures, Tokat Castle, is situated on a high point of the city and offers a commanding view over the surrounding area. Other historical landmarks include the Gök Medrese, Sulusaray Ancient City, Ballıca Cave, and Yağıbasan Medresesi.

Ballıca Cave is a natural wonder formed over thousands of years, featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Additionally, Kaz Lake is a unique natural site for birdwatchers.

Tokat possesses a rich culture characterized by handicrafts, folk music, and traditional cuisine. It is especially known for its copperwork, yazma (printed fabric), and Tokat kebab. Traditional delicacies such as “cevizli sucuk” and “zile pekmezi” are also famous in the city.

Cultural activities in the city remain vibrant throughout the year with festivals, folk dances, and concerts. Folk music in Tokat is performed with the bağlama and zurna, while dances range from zeybek to halay.

Where Is It on the Map?

Tokat is located in the interior of the Black Sea Region, on a plateau surrounded by highland meadows. To its east lies Sivas, to its west Amasya, to its north Ordu, and to its south Yozgat and Kayseri. On the map of Türkiye, Tokat occupies a transitional zone between the Black Sea and Central Anatolia regions.

Region: Black Sea Region (interior areas)

Population: Approximately 600,000 (2024)

Climate: Transitional characteristics between Black Sea and continental climates (hot summers, cold and snowy winters)

Neighboring provinces: Amasya, Yozgat, Sivas, Ordu, Samsun

Notable features: Historic caravanserais, medreses, and handicrafts