Military defense and practical needs shaped much of the architecture in the ancient Kingdom of Pontus (Greek: Πόντος), according to a new archaeological study. The research shows how rulers built fortified settlements across the Black Sea region of modern-day Turkey, favoring strategic locations and functional buildings over the grand public structures seen elsewhere in the Hellenistic world.
The study, led by Ahmet Emirhan Bulut, examined architectural remains at seven archaeological sites dating to the Hellenistic period. The findings suggest that military concerns, mountainous terrain, and local resources strongly influenced construction across the kingdom.
Fortresses shaped the Kingdom of Pontus
The Kingdom of Pontus controlled large parts of northern Anatolia and became a powerful regional state under the Mithridatic dynasty. Unlike major Hellenistic cities such as Ephesus, Miletus and Pergamon, the settlements examined showed little evidence of elaborate public architecture.
Archaeologists have not identified public squares or council buildings comparable to those found in major Greek cities at these sites. Instead, rulers established fortresses on rocky hills and steep slopes. These positions helped protect agricultural land, monitor transportation routes, and secure borders.
At Amasya Harşena Fortress, located in the kingdom’s former capital, researchers identified substantial defensive walls and tunnels carved into bedrock. Amasya served as the royal capital before the kingdom transferred its political center to Sinope around 180 BC.
Kurul Fortress reveals ancient building techniques
Kurul Fortress in Ordu province offers some of the clearest evidence of Pontic architecture. The settlement developed into a fortified stronghold under Mithridates VI, who ruled from 120 to 63 BC. Unlike several other sites, Kurul was not occupied by later communities after the kingdom’s collapse in 63 BC. This helped preserve its Hellenistic buildings.
A new study reveals how the ancient Kingdom of Pontus prioritized fortresses, defensive walls and strategic strongholds over monumental architecture. Archaeological discoveries offer a rare look at life under Mithridates VI. pic.twitter.com/KgP3StXOZN
— Tom Marvolo Riddle (@tom_riddle2025) October 9, 2026
Excavations revealed defensive towers, storage rooms, and residential buildings constructed using local stone and mudbrick. Researchers estimate that builders used tens of thousands of mudbricks, an unusual choice given the Black Sea region’s humid climate. They also carved foundations into natural bedrock to strengthen walls and improve stability.
Religious sites and workshops reveal everyday life
The fortresses served purposes beyond military defense. At Kurul, archaeologists discovered a religious area dedicated to Greek god Dionysus, along with a terracotta statue depicting the god as a child. The settlement also contained a rock-cut tunnel extending approximately 180 meters, with 381 steps. Researchers suggest that such tunnels may have supported religious activities or water storage, although their precise purpose remains uncertain.
At nearby Cıngırt Kayası, excavations uncovered a wine-production facility and evidence of ironworking. On Aretias Island, now called Giresun Island, archaeologists identified rock-cut sanctuaries associated with the worship of Kybele, an ancient Anatolian goddess.
Military priorities influenced architectural choices
Bulut concludes that the kingdom’s rulers generally favored practical construction suited to military needs and difficult terrain. However, the study also acknowledges that later construction damaged or destroyed many Hellenistic buildings, limiting what researchers can determine about the region’s original architecture. Further excavations could clarify how military planning, religious traditions, and cultural exchanges shaped the Kingdom of Pontus during the Hellenistic period.
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