Rize

Location

Rize is located in the northeast of Türkiye, along the Black Sea coast. It borders Artvin to the east, Trabzon to the west, and Erzurum to the south. Its area is approximately 3,920 km². The provincial center is situated at an elevation of 6 meters above sea level. The Kaçkar Mountains rise in the southern part of the province and define its geographical structure.

History

Rize has been under the influence of various civilizations throughout history. It was known as “Kulki/Kulkha” in the 8th century BCE. In ancient Greek sources, it appears as “Kolk.” The Kingdom of Pontus, followed by the Romans and Byzantines, governed the region. In 1461, it was incorporated into Ottoman territories and gained provincial status in 1924 during the Republican period.

Geography and Climate

Rize features a narrow coastal plain and rapidly rising mountain ranges. The Kaçkar Mountains are the highest point in the province at 3,937 meters. The climate is humid, with annual rainfall exceeding 2,000 mm. Coastal areas are dominated by tea, hazelnut, and kiwi orchards; higher elevations are covered by fir, beech, and chestnut forests.

Natural Attractions

• Highland Pastures: Rize has numerous yaylas. The main ones are Ayder, Pokut, Sal, Anzer, Handüzü, and Elevit. During summer months, both locals and tourists visit these areas, where clean air, flowers, and green landscapes prevail.
• Waterfalls and Lakes: Palovit, Bulut, and Gelintülü waterfalls are natural flow areas. Glacial lakes such as Ambar, Büyükdeniz, and Kapılı are located at high elevations.
• Caves: Pileki Cave was formed due to stone quarrying and is open to tourism.

Cultural Heritage

Stone Arched Bridges and Mills

Rize features stone arched bridges that connect villages. Water mills in the district of Güneysu are used for grinding cornmeal.

Wooden Houses and Mansions

Wooden houses are found in yaylas and villages. Naylars are used for storing food products. Stone and wood mansions have spacious rooms and ornate fireplaces.

Cuisine

Rize cuisine includes tea, corn bread, black cabbage dishes, muhlama, Laz böreği, hamsili pilav, and Anzer honey. Tea is an essential part of social life.

Economy

Rize’s economy is based on tea cultivation. Fishing, beekeeping, and kiwi farming are also widespread. Nature tourism and yayla tourism are significant economic activities.

Rize is one of the important cities of the Eastern Black Sea region, known for its lush natural landscape, highland pastures, waterfalls, arched bridges, and traditional architecture. It is an ideal destination for those seeking to explore both nature and cultural heritage.