Ancient Cities

ANCIENT CITIES

Most important antic cities within the territories of the city, are Ereğli (Herakleia Pontike) and Filyos (Teion). Ereğli, which is founded by Mariandines, who were the successors of Frigs, during the 6th century B. C., and was an important commercial wharf (emperion), had taken its name from the famous hero of the mythology, Hercules (Heracles). City had preserved its importance during Roman, Byzantium, Seljukian, Otooman periods. Important historical ruins of the region are leading Acheron Valley Ruins, in which Cehennem Ağzı Caverns are present, Helen, Roman, Byzantium and Ottomans periods’ products, rampart ruins, Ereğli castle, Heracles (Hercules) palace, Çeştepe lighthouse tower, Byzantium water cistern, Krispos mausoleum, Byzantium church, Hagia Sophia Church and Halil Paşa Mansion.

Filyos, other antic city of the city is known as Teion (or Tion) during antic period. Ruins within the region, holds the signs of Roman, Byzantium and Genevan periods. Antic port, castle, aqueducts, open - air theater and church ruins are remained from this period.