Kerch

Kerch, originally founded as the Greek colony of Panticapaeum, holds a significant place in archaeology as one of Crimea's oldest cities. Established by Greek settlers from Miletus around 600 BCE, it later became the capital of the Bosporus Kingdom. The city's strategic location fostered its growth, becoming a hub of trade between the steppes and Europe. It experienced various phases of control, from the Byzantine Empire to the Khazars, and later the Genoese and Ottoman Empires, reflecting its historical and cultural transformations. Notable archaeological features include ancient fortresses, churches, burial mounds, and catacombs. Kerch's rich history is evidenced by artifacts scattered across major museums worldwide, underscoring its archaeological significance.