Looming above the northern bank of the river is a sheer rock face with the conspicuous cut-rock Tombs of the Pontic Kings. The tombs, cut deep into the limestone as early as the 4th century BC, were used for cult worship of the deified rulers. There are more than 20 (empty) tombs in the valley and they're at their most striking when viewed from the southern river bank. At night they are lit up in a memorably garish fashion.
Climb the steps from the souvenir stalls to the ticket office . Just past the office the path divides: turn right to view the most impressive tombs, with good panoramas of Amasya. Turn left to find the remnants of the Baths of the Maidens Palace , built in the 14th century, and, through a rock-hewn tunnel, a couple more tombs.
