Trade in the Eastern Black Sea region from the Early Iron Age to the end of the Greek Colonization Age

The Eastern Black Sea is a region that has been home to various peoples for centuries. Due to its geopolitical position, it has been both a refuge for various peoples in the mountains, and a harbour that welcomes merchants. The Black Sea, which has had human settlements since the Chalcolithic era, has been in political, cultural and economic relations with peoples such as the Azzi-Hayasa Kingdom, the Kaskians and the Hittites. By the years 750-550 BCE, with the beginning of major colonization activities in Anatolia, the mines and natural riches of the Black Sea were discovered by colonists and colonies began to be established in certain regions. The Black Sea, which has become a commercial center with colonization activities, has started to play an active role in international trade over time. With the colonists establishing colony-cities in regions such as Sinope (Sinop), Trapezous (Trabzon), Kerasos / Pharnakia (Giresun) located in the Eastern Black Sea, commercial relations have strengthened over time, allowing the region to develop politically, culturally and economically.