[1][2] The castle is located north of Amasya and the river Yeşilırmak on the steep rocks of Mount Harşena.

[2] While fleeing the invading troops of Timur in the first years of the 15th century, Ottoman then-şehzade Çelebi Mehmed took refuge in Amasya Castle.

Several steep stair-tunnels descend from exterior portals on the fortress hillsides to reach the enclosed wells, cisterns, and tombs below.

[1][2] At about 20–25 m (66–82 ft) height, in a sheer rock face, there are 18 large and small tombs of Pontic kings, dating to the 3rd century BC and carved into the limestone cliff.

[1][2] At about 800 m (2,600 ft) of the ancient fortress walls along the Yeşilırmak River, typical Amasya houses, hamams and mosques were built.