It is an Anatolian district located to the west of Tokat province, which has hosted many civilizations throughout history and stands out with its rich cultural heritage, natural beauties, and agricultural production. Zile, a continuously settled area since ancient times, bears the traces of many civilizations from the Hittites to the Romans, from Byzantium to the Ottomans. Zile also attracts attention with its historical importance; it is known as the place where Julius Caesar uttered his famous words “Veni, vidi, vici” (I came, I saw, I conquered) after the Battle of Zile.

Location and Neighbors

Zile, located approximately 67 km from Tokat city center, is bordered by Turhal to the north, Artova to the east, Yeşilyurt to the south, and Gümüşhacıköy and Suluova districts of Amasya province to the west. The district is situated in the Yeşilırmak basin and has fertile plains and a temperate continental climate, making it suitable for agriculture.

History

The history of Zile dates back approximately 3000 years. The region, first used as a settlement during the Hittite period, later came under Phrygian, Persian, Macedonian, and Roman rule. During the Kingdom of Pontus, it became a strategic center and an important point of resistance against the Roman Empire. In 47 BC, after defeating the Pontic army in the Battle of Zile, Julius Caesar sent his famous letter containing the words “Veni, vidi, vici” to the Roman Senate from here. Zile, which became an important religious and military center during the Byzantine period, was also used by the Seljuks and then the Ottomans, and served as an administrative sanjak center during the Ottoman period.

Neighborhoods and Settlement

Zile district consists of a total of 17 neighborhoods, together with the central district and over 80 villages connected to it. Some of these are:

• Şeyhali Mahallesi
• Ali Kadı Mahallesi
• Aynalı Köyü
• Namlı Mahallesi
• Atatürk Mahallesi
• Belediye Evleri Mahallesi
• Karşıyaka Mahallesi
• Çayır Mahallesi
• Yeni Mahalle

Zile offers traditional and modern life together, with both its city center and village life.

Economy

Zile's economy is largely based on agriculture and animal husbandry. In the fertile Zile Plain, especially sugar beet, wheat, barley, sunflower, corn, and tomatoes are grown. In addition, fruit production such as cherry, sour cherry, grape, and apple has increased in recent years. Zile grape is regionally known for its quality.

In animal husbandry activities, large and small livestock farming is common. Especially dairy production and cheesemaking are among the most important sources of livelihood in the villages.

Additionally, small-scale food processing facilities, flour mills, agricultural machinery production, timber industry, and traditional "peksimet" (hardtack/rusk) manufacturing are noteworthy in the district. Zile peksimet is known for both its durability and taste.

Education and Culture

Education in Zile is widely provided from primary to high school level, and higher education institutions such as Zile Dinçerler Tourism and Hotel Management Vocational School are also present in the district. There are numerous primary schools, middle schools, and high schools in the district. Especially Zile Science High School and Zile Anatolian High School are among the preferred schools in the region.

Culturally, Zile is one of Tokat's most vibrant districts. It continues to preserve its cultural values through traditional handicrafts, village weddings, folk dances, and events like the Zile Fair.

Historical and Natural Beauties

Zile is home to many historical and natural structures:

• Zile Castle: Built during the Roman period and becoming the symbol of the district, this castle is located on a hill with a bird's-eye view of the city. Caesar's “Veni, vidi, vici” inscription is found in the castle.
• Zile Ulu Mosque: This mosque, dating back to the Seljuk period, stands out with its stone craftsmanship.
• Zinav Lake and Canyon: This region, notable for its natural beauties, is suitable for hiking and camping.
• Maşat Mound: An important archaeological mound from which significant Hittite-era findings were unearthed.
• Old Zile Houses: Traditional mansions from the Ottoman period still preserve their original structure in some neighborhoods.

^{Zile Castle (Zile Municipality)}

Transportation

Zile is connected to Tokat Center and surrounding districts by road. The nearest railway connection to the district is via Turhal. With the opening of Tokat Airport, transportation opportunities have expanded.

• Bus Routes: There are regular bus services between Tokat – Zile and Turhal – Zile.
• Intra-District Transportation: Provided by municipal buses and minibuses.

Sports and Social Life

Various sports facilities are located in Zile. Especially, sports halls, turf fields, and basketball courts are available within schools and youth centers. Zile Belediyespor, operating in the district, competes in amateur leagues and supports young athletes.

Additionally, various courses for youth and children, and training in branches such as handicrafts and music, are offered at the public education center in the district.

Life in Zile continues in a simple but meaningful way, intertwined with nature; activity increases annually with the participation of expatriates returning to their villages during the summer months. During these periods, social life is enlivened with village festivals, fairs, and outdoor events.