Erbaa in ancient in the light of historical documents and archaeological data

This study examines the ancient history and settlement patterns of the Erbaa district of Tokat, located in the Central Black Sea Region, in the light of archaeological findings and ancient written sources. The region's geographical location, rich natural resources, and strategic location on roads have paved the way for Erbaa to host diverse cultures throughout history. Research indicates that the first traces of settlement date back to the Chalcolithic Age. Archaeological data has revealed that Erbaa was densely inhabited during the Old Bronze Age. By the 2nd millennium BC, as understood from Hittite cuneiform documents, the Central Black Sea region, particularly Tokat and its surrounding area, became the center of long-term conflicts between the Hittites and Kaska communities. Consequently, Erbaa, due to its location, was also affected by this process. Archaeological finds dating to the Iron Age indicate that Phrygian influence reached the region. Following Persian domination, during the Hellenistic Period, Erbaa became an important military, religious, and political center for the Pontic Kingdom. Due to its strategic location, the region maintained its regional importance from a military and administrative perspective during the Roman and Byzantine periods. This study provides a comparative analysis of ancient sources, archaeological materials, epigraphic documents, and data obtained through surface surveys. This study reveals the political, economic, religious, and cultural relationships of Erbaa in ancient history, clarifying how the city became a preferred military, political, and economic hub. In conclusion, this thesis presents a holistic perspective on Erbaa's ancient history and evaluates its position and importance in Anatolian history. This study is significant both because it is the first comprehensive study documenting the region's continuous settlement and because it serves as a resource for future scientific studies in this area.