Safranbolu is a town boasting a glorious collection of old Ottoman houses, with a rich collection of pieces of art which represents traditional Turkish life and culture. Its rich history and success in preserving it earned the town an inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The best known for its old Turkish houses, the town is attracting more attention especially as these 19th century homes are gradually disappearing from other areas of Turkey. Visitors enjoying walking along the old narrow cobbled streets, and seeing some of the traditional crafts and trades that are still practised today. It is also known as the Capital City of Preservation, acknowledging its ability to hold onto not only pieces of art, but also the atmosphere.

Climate

The climate in Safranbolu is a combination of the Black Sea and Central Anatolia. The summers are hot, winters are cold, spring and autumn are tepid and cool and very long.

History

Previously known as Paphlagonia, Safranbolu took its name from saffron and has hosted many different civilisations in its history including Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks and Ottomans. It was conquered by the Turks in 1196.

The town reached its economic and cultural peak during the Ottoman Empire, partly because its position as an important stop on the Istanbul to Sinop trade route in the 17th century improved the commerce and wealth of the region. During this period it had close relations with Istanbul and Kastamonu, and state officials from the Ottoman Palace had important pieces of art in Safranbolu. The wealthy inhabitants of the town built large houses made from wood and stucco, many of which still survive. During the 19th century nearly 25% of the population were Ottoman Greeks, who left after World War I.

Where to Visit

The town is best know because of its old Turkish houses and has numerous pieces of art, of which over a thousand are under protection. There are two distinct areas: Carsi in the south is the old area of town, and location of most of the winter houses, whereas Baglar has the summerhouses. Between them is Kirankoy, famous for the Greek houses that display more top quality masonry, and home to the Greek population until the early 20th century.

The area of most interest to the visitor is in Carsi, seen from the castle in the north, also known as Eski Safranbolu. Hidirlik Hill to the south is the location of two monuments, and was used as an open-air venue for rituals in previous centuries.

Some of the area’s most interesting historical locations are the castle and surroundings, which was the initial settlement area; the Old Government Building; a 200-year old clock tower still in working order; and the jailhouse, now disused.

Within the city there are 25 mosques with historical importance, the most famous of which are Koprulu Mehmet Pasa, and Sultan III. These were constructed by Selim’s Grand Vizier, Izzet Mehmet Pasa.

The newly restored Cinci Hani, the most famous building in the old part of town, is a caravanserai dating back to 1645. Next to that is Cinci Hamami, still working today with separate baths for men and women, with a marble interior and strong light coming in from the domed roof. Both were constructed by Cinci Hoca, from Safranbolu.

The business and commerce of the town are kept as close to the traditional means as possible, and goods are made and sold in the bazaars like Yemeniciler Arastasi. Iron, copper and tin are crafted in traditional means, and the Packsaddle Maker’s Bazaar has preserved the craft in the city.

Outside Safranbolu

Safranbolu has impressive areas of natural beauty in addition to its historical and architectural interest. Areas of dense forest, canyons and valleys all offer other activities such as trekking, mountaineering and cycling, as well as the more gentle activity of picnics.

Places of interest outside the town include Ancekaya Aqueduct and canyon, the houses of Yoruk Village, Bulak and Hizar Caverns, Hacilarobasi, Ucboluk and its surrounding rock tombs, Duzce Canyon, Saricicek Plateau and Uluyayla.

Yörük Village

Yoruk Koyu, 11km in the east of Safranbolu, is a village of old houses and the feel of an open-air museum. The houses, which most of are affluent, and streets are under protection and are in good condition. Highlights include Kaymakcioglu Konagi, Sipahiler Konagi, Ahsap Cami and Camasirhane, which is a restored art gallery. There is a couple of relaxing restaurants set within shady gardens.

National And Natural Parks

Safranbolu has impressive natural beauties besides historical piece of arts and houses. Dense forest areas, canyons and valleys are maintaining possibilities for other touristic activities such as trekking, mountaineering and cycle as much as it is appropriate for picnic.

Incekaya Aqueduct and canyon, marvelous houses having Yörük Village, Bulak and Hizar Caverns, Hacılarobası and Üçbölük Village surrounding Rock Tombs, Düzce Canyon, Sariçiçek Plateau and Uluyayla, Gürleyik Picnic Area are the other tourism areas of the city.

Museum Houses

Many of the oldest houses have been made into museums by cultural departments, and most have attractive tea gardens. Kileciler Evi is one of the best, and has been restored and organised by the Ministry of Culture as a good example of an old Safranbolu house and its lifestyle. Other well known ones are Mumtazlar Konagi (Mansion with pool) and Karauzumler Evi.