Bayburt

Bayburt is a small and charming city located in the Eastern Black Sea Region of Türkiye, founded along the historic Silk Road. The city is renowned for its surrounding high mountains and the Çoruh River that flows through its center. Bayburt’s history extends back to ancient times, even to the millennia before Christ.

Where Is It on the Map? ⛰️

Bayburt is situated in a wide valley surrounded by high mountains. The most significant of these mountains are the Kop Dağları and the Çakırgöl Dağları, which encircle the city like a wall.

Between these mountains flows the rapid Çoruh River, which originates in the Black Sea Region and passes through Bayburt. The Çoruh River serves as the lifeblood of Bayburt, providing water for irrigation and enhancing the natural beauty of its surroundings.

What Is the Weather Like in Bayburt? ☀️❄️

In Bayburt, winters are very cold and snowy, while summers are hot and dry.

This climate reflects Bayburt’s distance from the sea and the dominance of a continental climate. In a continental climate, the temperature difference between summer and winter is considerable. As a result, residents of Bayburt wear thick clothing in winter and retreat to the cool highland pastures in summer to enjoy nature and rest.

History ⏳

Bayburt’s history reaches back to the 3000s BCE. In antiquity, warrior communities such as the Scythians (Saka Turks) lived in this region. Historical sources record the city’s name in various forms: in medieval Armenian sources as Payberd and in Byzantine sources as Baberd.

Because Bayburt lies along the historic Silk Road, it has held strategic importance throughout history. This position exposed the city to repeated invasions but also enabled it to interact with diverse cultures, leading to its cultural enrichment. Turkish dominance in Anatolia became firmly established after the Battle of Manzikert in 1071.

Places to Visit 🏰

Aydıntepe Underground City: This fascinating underground city consists of interconnected chambers carved directly into the bedrock. Historians believe it was used as an ancient shelter. The conical openings drilled for lighting create an atmosphere reminiscent of a scene from a film.

Sırakayalar Waterfall: An ideal location for nature walks and picnics. The sound of water cascading from a height of approximately 20 meters brings a sense of peace.

Baksı Museum: Located on a hill slightly outside the city center, this private museum brings together traditional crafts and modern art pieces. It received the Council of Europe Museum Prize in 2014. Here, visitors can view both ancient and contemporary artworks side by side.

Culture and Cuisine 🍽️

Bayburt’s cuisine blends the flavors of Eastern Anatolia and the Black Sea regions.

• Tatlı çorba: Bayburt’s famous soup, despite its name meaning “sweet soup,” is not sweet at all. It is a hearty main dish made with meat and cracked wheat.
• Galacoş: A traditional Bayburt specialty made from cornmeal and butter, served with yogurt poured on top.
• The Dede Korkut Tales hold a significant place in Bayburt’s cultural life. Dede Korkut is a revered wise man and bard in Turkish epics. Every year in July, the Dede Korkut Culture and Arts Festival is held in Bayburt.