Adana History: A Glimpse into the Ancient Land of Turkey
Adana is a city in southern Turkey located on the Seyhan River, on the Mediterranean coast of Anatolia. It is one of the largest cities in Turkey and is the administrative center of the Adana Province. Adana has a long and rich history, having been inhabited since the Neolithic period. It has been a major commercial center since the Hittite Empire and has been ruled by many different civilizations throughout its long history.
The earliest known inhabitants of Adana were the Hittites, who settled the area around 2000 BCE. The Hittites established a city called Kizzuwatna, which served as the capital of the kingdom. The city was destroyed in the 16th century BCE by the Assyrians, who also sacked the city of Hattusa. The Assyrians also destroyed the Hittite capital of Aleppo and the city of Kizzuwatna was never rebuilt.
Adana was later occupied by the Phrygians and then by the Persians, who made it the center of their rule in Anatolia. The Persians were eventually defeated by Alexander the Great and the city was then taken by the Seleucids. The Seleucids made Adana the capital of their province of Cilicia and the city flourished under their rule.
The city was later conquered by the Romans in the 1st century BCE and was made the capital of the Roman province of Cilicia. During the Roman period, Adana flourished as a commercial center and was known for its silk and carpets. The city was also a major center of Christianity and was home to many churches and monasteries.
Adana was conquered by the Arabs in 639 and became part of the Umayyad caliphate. The city was later taken by the Seljuks in 1086 and was made the capital of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum. The city was then taken by the Ottomans in 1517 and was made the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in Anatolia.
Adana has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many historical sites and monuments. The city is also home to many mosques, churches, and other religious buildings. Adana is a popular tourist destination and is known for its delicious cuisine, including kebabs, kofte, and baklava. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife and its vibrant culture.
Adana has a long and rich history, having been inhabited since the Neolithic period. It has been a major commercial center since the Hittite Empire and has been ruled by many different civilizations throughout its long history. Adana is a city with a fascinating past and a vibrant present, and it is well worth exploring.