Tieion (Teion) – Filyos, Zonguldak

Tieion (Teion) – Filyos, Zonguldak

The ancient port city of Tieion, located in the modern coastal town of Filyos, was one of the most important settlements in the Black Sea region for centuries. Founded as a Greek colony in the 7th century BCE, its strategic position at the mouth of the Filyos River made it a bustling hub for maritime trade, particularly in timber and other regional goods. The city's extensive ruins, which are currently being brought to light through large-scale excavations, tell the story of its journey from a Greek colony to a prosperous Roman city and a significant Byzantine bishopric.

A City Shaped by the Sea and Empires

Tieion's history is a tapestry of different cultures. After its founding by Greek colonists from Miletus, it came under the influence of various regional powers before being incorporated into the Roman Empire in 70 BCE. Under Rome, the city experienced a golden age, with the construction of monumental public buildings that solidified its status as a major urban center. Its importance continued into the Byzantine era when it served as a religious center. Later, it was controlled by the Genoese before becoming part of the Ottoman Empire.

Archaeological Highlights of a Black Sea Port

Excavations at Tieion, which began in 2006, are revealing a remarkably well-preserved ancient city. Unlike many other sites in the region, Tieion is not covered by modern settlement, allowing archaeologists an unobstructed view of its past.

  • The Roman Theatre: A major discovery at the site is a Roman-era theatre with a capacity for 5,000 people. It is one of only a handful of ancient theatres found in the Black Sea region, making it exceptionally important for understanding the cultural life of the area.
  • Ancient Harbor and Acropolis: The city's ancient harbor and a defensive castle on the acropolis (the highest point of the city) are clearly visible. These structures underscore the city's dual role as a center for both trade and defense.
  • Roman and Byzantine Infrastructure: The remains of city walls, a Roman temple, several bathhouses, a basilica, and an impressive aqueduct system demonstrate the high level of urban planning and engineering in Tieion.
  • The Necropolis: The city's ancient cemetery contains numerous stone sarcophagi and brick tombs, providing valuable information about the inhabitants and their burial customs over the centuries.

As excavations continue, Tieion is rapidly becoming one of the most important archaeological sites in the Black Sea region, offering a unique window into the history of a city that thrived at the crossroads of empires and trade routes.

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Location Information

Latitude:41.573859
Longitude:32.032132
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