As part of the TÜBİTAK 1519 Cost Action Seadda 18128 Project, the "Ancient Times in Trabzon" project, conducted in collaboration with Karadeniz Technical University (KTU), Atatürk University, Gümüşhane University, Trabzon University, and SEADDA (Archaeologists and digital experts working together to secure the future of archaeological data across Europe and beyond), held its promotion meeting in Trabzon.

The meeting was attended by Trabzon Governor Aziz YILDIRIM, Trabzon Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Esq. Ahmet Metin GENÇ, our Rector Prof. Dr. Hamdullah ÇUVALCI, Trabzon University Rector Prof. Dr. Emin AŞIKKUTLU, Trabzon Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TTSO) President Erkut ÇELEBİ, our university's Karadeniz Research Institute Director Prof. Dr. İsmail KÖSE, Department of History, Ancient History Chair at the Faculty of Literature, Associate Prof. Dr. Osman EMİR, journalists, and faculty members involved in the project.

"It is a National Duty to Transfer the Region's Cultural and Historical Values to Future Generations and Contribute to Tourism"

In the opening speech of the "Ancient Times in Trabzon" Project, led by Prof. Dr. İsmail KÖSE, which aims to map and promote historical routes followed by tens of thousands of mercenaries in 400-401 BC and Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1461 as they marched from Bayburt to Trabzon, Rector Prof. Dr. Hamdullah ÇUVALCI stated, "Researching these historical paths followed by the Tens of Thousands and Fatih Sultan Mehmet to reach the Trabzon Port — a strategic meeting point of the Caucasus, Anatolia, and the eastern Black Sea's road networks — and determining these routes' archaeological significance is of vital importance. By doing so, we will protect and digitize this national heritage and pass it on to future generations, enhancing its recognition and highlighting its roles in civilization history. The transfer of these irreplaceable archaeological, cultural, and historical values to future generations and their contribution to tourism is not only a responsibility to history but also a national duty."

"We Are the Owners of a City Where 4000 Years of Civilization Has Contributed"

After Rector ÇUVALCI’s speech, Trabzon Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Esq. Ahmet Metin GENÇ stated, "Trabzon's hallmark is being a city of history, culture, and art. We are the owners of a city where 4000 years of civilization have contributed. It is very important to preserve our historical identity. I want to express the importance of supporting all research conducted or to be conducted in this area, and as a citizen and administrator of this city, I consider myself obliged to contribute. I am also very happy to be a stakeholder in this project."

"In Today's World, History, Culture, and Tourism are Indivisible"

Trabzon Governor Aziz YILDIRIM, addressing the attendees, said, "This is a very valuable initiative. In today's world, history, culture, and tourism are inseparable. When we talk about history, we are curious about where people lived, what they did, and the culture they created. Some of the historical sites and routes mentioned in history books have not survived until today, but some can still be found. However, some routes may remain hidden forever. These issues require meticulous work. I congratulate and thank our universities, academics, and supporting institutions for their efforts."

After the opening speeches, Prof. Dr. İsmail KÖSE and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Osman EMİR presented a detailed briefing on their expertise in the project. This scientific research has mapped the historical routes traveled by Tens of Thousands and Fatih Sultan Mehmet between 400-401 BC and 1461 AD, respectively, and identified significant sites along these paths, including castles, tombs, and historic landmarks.

With a research period spanning 24 months due to the extensive subject matter and seasonal conditions, the project involved a team of interdisciplinary experts from various fields. The project’s outcome will contribute to the region's development, tourism, and rural growth by carefully preserving these identified paths without harming nature.

 

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