Historical Capitals of the World

Çankırı

Country: Turkey

Region: Middle East

Period: 31BCE-5/6 BC

Location: 40.598611°N, 33.619167°E

Description

Gangra was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Paphlagonia, located in the northern part of Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). The city, situated in the fertile valley of the Halys River (now Kızılırmak), played a central role in the kingdom's administration and military activities during the 5th to 3rd centuries BCE.

Modern Remains

Today, the site of Gangra is located near the modern Turkish town of Çorum. Archaeological remains include the ruins of ancient walls, city gates, and fortifications. The remains of temples and inscriptions reflect both Paphlagonian and Roman influences. Despite limited excavation, Gangra’s location and artifacts shed light on the region's complex history of political control, cultural exchange, and religious transformation.

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