Founded in 64 BCE by the Roman general Pompey in the Paphlagonian region, within the valley of the Amnias River (modern Gökırmak), Pompeiopolis/Sebaste became an important settlement during the Roman Imperial period. The city later adopted the name "Sebaste," strengthening its connection to the imperial cult. Today, the ancient city, known as Zımbıllı Tepesi Höyüğü, located opposite the Taşköprü district, stands out for its rich history and strategic location.

History

Pompeiopolis was founded in 64 BCE by the Roman general Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus during the political restructuring of Anatolia following the Mithridatic Wars. This foundation, aiming to consolidate Roman dominance in the Pontus and Paphlagonia regions, was a significant step in bringing the area under Roman administration. The city was named "Pompeiopolis" in honor of its founder. Rapidly developing in the mid-1st century BCE within the framework of Roman provincial arrangements, Pompeiopolis quickly became one of the region's administrative and economic centers thanks to its strategic location.

In later periods, particularly during the first centuries of the Roman Empire, the city's name was changed to "Sebaste." The name "Sebaste" is the Greek equivalent of "Sebastos" (Augustus), a title bestowed in honor of the Roman Emperor Augustus. This name change underscores the city's strong connection to the imperial cult and its importance within the Roman Empire. During this era, the city maintained its existence as a significant administrative center in the province of Paphlagonia. The historical trajectory of the city is closely linked to the expansion and consolidation processes of the Roman Empire in Anatolia, clearly reflecting the impacts of Roman civilization in the region.

Geographic Location

Ancient Pompeiopolis/Sebaste is situated at a strategic point in the interior of the Black Sea Region, within the ancient geography of Paphlagonia, in the valley of the Amnias River (modern Gökırmak). The city's coordinates are identified as 41.518419, 34.214073. This location is notable not only for its fertile agricultural lands but also for being at the intersection of important trade routes connecting inner Anatolia to the port cities on the Black Sea coast. The Amnias valley offered ideal conditions for settlement in antiquity, both in terms of water resources and ease of transportation. Zımbıllı Tepesi Höyüğü, where the city was founded, is located on the opposite bank of the Gökırmak from the modern Taşköprü district. This geographic position allowed Pompeiopolis/Sebaste to play a key role in both regional trade and Roman military and administrative control. Its connections with other Paphlagonian cities in the vicinity enhanced its regional interaction and significance.

Significance in Antiquity

The significance of Pompeiopolis/Sebaste in antiquity was shaped by Rome's Anatolian policies from its foundation. In 6 BCE