Amasya was historically known as the 'City of Princes' because Ottoman princes were sent there to gain administrative experience before ascending the throne.
The statues include prominent figures such as Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror and Bayezid II, both of whom spent their formative years in Amasya.
The promenade integrates public art with the natural river landscape, creating a continuous historical exhibition space.
The figures are sculpted to represent the specific era and cultural attire of the Ottoman court in the 15th and 16th centuries.
The walk spans a significant section of the riverfront, highlighting the geographical importance of the Yeşilırmak River in the city's development.
Şehzadeler Gezi Yolu is an open-air historical promenade situated along the banks of the Yeşilırmak River in Amasya, Turkey. The site features a series of high-fidelity wax statues depicting Ottoman princes (Şehzadeler) who lived and received their governorship training in the city during the 14th to 16th centuries. It serves as a visual narrative of the city's historical role as a training ground for future sultans. The statues are set against a backdrop of traditional Ottoman-era wooden houses, known as Yalıboyu houses. The promenade stretches along Ziya Paşa Boulevard, providing a direct link between the city center and the historical district. The walkway is interspersed with information plaques detailing the biographies of the princes represented.
The section of the promenade where the statues are framed by the reflection of the Yalıboyu houses in the river.
Visit during the early evening when the riverside lights illuminate the historical houses and statues.
Walk the entire length of the boulevard to see all the individual statue installations, as they are spaced out along the bank.
Combine this visit with a walk to the nearby Amasya Castle viewpoint for a broader historical perspective.
Do not attempt to climb or lean on the statue pedestals as they are fragile public installations.
