Located in the heart of Anatolia, Tokat is a city that stands out with its thousands of years of history and rich cultural heritage. From the Hittites to the Ottomans, Tokat offers a layered civilization experience with its traditional crafts, mosques, inns, castles, and museums — a true journey through time.
For those seeking natural beauty, Ballıca Cave, Kaz Lake, Zinav Lake, and the highlands provide unforgettable experiences. For food lovers, local delicacies such as Tokat kebab, bat, keşkek, madımak, çökelekli, stuffed grape leaves, and Zile molasses offer an authentic Anatolian culinary journey.
During the congress, in addition to scientific sessions, participants are invited to discover the historical atmosphere of Tokat, experience its cultural heritage, and enjoy the hospitality of the local community.
Tokat’s historical trajectory offers a unique insight into the multicultural nature of Anatolia and the interplay between civilizations. This ancient city connects the past to the present and invites visitors on a journey not only through place, but through time.
Tokat welcomes you to a comprehensive journey of science, discovery, and culture.
One of the ancient cities of Anatolia, Tokat has hosted many civilizations throughout history. Positioned between the Black Sea and Central Anatolia regions, it has historically served as a strategic and commercial hub.
Its known history dates back to 4000 BC. It was an important settlement during the Hittite period and later came under the rule of the Phrygians, Persians, Macedonians, and Romans. Known as “Comana Pontica” during the Roman era, it became a religious and trade center, maintaining its significance during the Byzantine period.
Following the Battle of Manzikert, the city became the capital of the Danishmendids, one of the first Turkish principalities in Anatolia. During the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, it developed as a center of science, culture, and economy. After the proclamation of the Republic, it continued to be a major center of education, agriculture, and culture.
Today, Tokat stands as a living heritage with its layered cultural structure, preserved historical architecture, and deep-rooted local traditions.
Tokat is a hidden gem of Anatolia, rich in history, nature, and cultural texture. Whether during or after the congress, a brief exploration of the city will leave lasting memories.
Arastalı Bedesten – Tokat Museum A 15th-century Ottoman marketplace with unique nine-domed architecture, now serving as Tokat Museum since 2012, exhibiting artifacts from the Chalcolithic era to the Ottomans.
Gökmedrese (Pervane Medrese) A 13th-century Seljuk structure showcasing rich tilework, stucco, and architectural beauty, once serving as a theological school and hospital.
Yağıbasan Madrasah (Çukur Medrese) Built in the 12th century, it's one of the oldest madrasahs in Anatolia, notable for its large domed courtyard.
Latifoğlu Mansion An 18th-century Ottoman baroque house that reflects Tokat's urban culture, now functioning as a Museum House with authentic interior furnishings.
Tokat Mevlevihane (Dervish Lodge) A 17th-century wooden building showcasing Ottoman baroque architecture and Mevlevi Sufi traditions.
Tokat Culture House A baroque civil architecture structure offering rich wooden carvings and historical details from the 18th century.
Atatürk House and Ethnography Museum Where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk stayed in 1924; now a museum showcasing ethnographic elements.
Taşhan and Yazmacılar Bazaar A 17th-century inn still used for handicraft trade; adjacent bazaar preserves Tokat's block-printing tradition.
Ballıca Cave A 3.4 million-year-old cave with multi-layered formations, among the world's geological wonders.
Kaz Lake Nature Park A rich wetland ecosystem, ideal for birdwatching, nature walks, and photography.
Tokat cuisine is the result of centuries of culinary culture combining the richness of the Black Sea and Central Anatolia.
Tokat Kebab: Grilled on skewers with eggplant, tomato, pepper, lamb fat, and meat.
Bat: A cold dish made with lentils, bulgur, and spices — a vegetarian favorite.
Zile Molasses: A fluffy, sweet paste made with egg whites and grape molasses.
Keşkek: A traditional wheat and meat dish served during weddings.
Madımak: A local herb sautéed with eggs or onions.
Also try: Tokat Tava, Stuffed Vine Leaves with Broad Beans, Pehlili Pilaf, and Tokat Simit.
???? Tokat cuisine is not just food — it's a way of connecting with local culture, stories, and traditions.
Tokat is a city where culture lives on. With centuries-old traditions, it remains a vibrant hub for crafts such as copperwork, weaving, calligraphy, and block printing.
Yazmacılık (Block Printing): Tokat's UNESCO-listed craft using natural dyes and wooden stamps.
Wood Carving & Copper Art: Artisans continue to produce intricate works rooted in Ottoman aesthetics.
Folk Music & Minstrelsy: Tokat remains a center of Anatolian music and oral tradition.
Traditional Architecture: Ottoman mansions and market areas serve as workshops and cultural venues today.
Visiting Tokat is like stepping into a living museum — where tradition, art, and everyday life come together.
Please click to watch the Tokat promotional film.
