Ayvacık is located in the inland area of Samsun province and was granted district status in 1990. Geographically, the district's mountainous and forested terrain is largely shaped by the presence of the Hasan Uğurlu and Suat Uğurlu Dam Lakes. The district's economy is based on agriculture (products such as hazelnuts, corn, and kiwi), animal husbandry, forestry, and freshwater fishing conducted in the dam lakes. The dam lakes and their surrounding natural beauty also provide ample opportunities for activities such as water sports and nature tourism.
Ayvacık (Samsun Metropolitan Municipality)
History
While the history of the Ayvacık district parallels the general historical processes of its geographical region, its history as an administrative unit is relatively recent. Detailed information about the region's ancient history is limited, but considering the general history of Samsun and its surrounding area, it is likely that it hosted various settlements or spheres of influence during the Hittite, Persian, Pontic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.
During the Ottoman Empire, Ayvacık and its surrounding villages appear to have been part of the Çarşamba district of the Canik Sanjak. During this period, the region exhibited a rural structure based on agriculture and animal husbandry, with scattered village settlements.
It is stated that migrations and settlement movements that occurred at different times influenced the development of the region's population structure. It is stated that groups from surrounding regions or more distant lands settled in the region, particularly before and after the Republican era. This played a role in shaping the district's current demographic structure. Ayvacık acquired its current administrative identity towards the end of the Republican era.
Ayvacık, which for many years consisted of villages within the Çarşamba district, gradually gained the need for a separate administrative unit due to its growing population and evolving settlement structure. As a result of efforts undertaken in this direction, it was separated from Çarşamba district and granted district status by Law No. 3644, enacted on May 19, 1990, and published in the Official Gazette on May 20, 1990. From this date on, Ayvacık assumed its administrative status as a district within the province of Samsun. The determination of the district center and the establishment of the municipal organization also took place during this period.
There are differing opinions regarding the district's name "Ayvacık," which may be related to the abundance of quince trees growing in the area or the region's geographical structure. There is no definitive, unified information regarding the origin of the name in the sources. Since becoming a district, efforts have been made to restructure administrative institutions and expand the service network. Ayvacık's history has largely been shaped by its association with Çarşamba, to which it is affiliated, and since 1990, it has continued to develop with its own administrative identity.
Geography and Climate
The Ayvacık district of Samsun province is geographically located in the inland region of the Central Black Sea Region, southeast of the city center. It is approximately 58-60 kilometers from the city center. It borders the districts of Çarşamba, Salıpazarı, Asarcık, and Terme. The district's administrative center and residential areas, with a limited surface area, are generally located along the Yeşilırmak River valley and the surrounding rugged terrain.
The district's topography consists of high mountains and hills, extensions of the Canik Mountains system, and deep valleys between them. The terrain is generally quite rugged, with average elevations reaching over 1,000 meters in some areas. This mountainous and rugged terrain influences the transportation network and settlement patterns. Agricultural land is generally limited to the valley floors and more steep slopes.
The Yeşilırmak River and the dam lakes built on it are the most defining elements of Ayvacık's hydrographic structure. The vast water surfaces created by the Hasan Uğurlu and Suat Uğurlu Dams are a characteristic feature of the district's geography. These dam lakes fill the river valley, creating a meandering, fjord-like body of water. These dam lakes not only contribute to the district's water resources potential but also have significant impacts on the climate and ecosystem.
The district's natural vegetation consists largely of forests. These forests generally contain deciduous trees such as beech, hornbeam, and oak, along with occasional pine species. The forested areas and rugged terrain also provide a habitat for wildlife. Ayvacık's climate is transitional between the Black Sea and continental climates, but is more heavily influenced by the latter. Generally, precipitation occurs throughout the year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in autumn and winter. Annual average temperatures may differ from coastal areas due to its inland location and high altitude. Winters are generally cool and rainy, while summers are mild. While the presence of dam lakes may have an increasing humidity and moderating effect on the local climate, sources do not provide specific data or analyses on this effect. Snowfall can occur in higher elevations during the winter months.
Population and Demography
Ayvacık district, as a rural settlement located in the west of Samsun, has a total population of 19,556 as of 2024. 10,313 of this population are male and 9,243 are female. When expressed as a percentage, the male population is 52.74% and the female population is 47.26%. The population data covering the period 2007–2024 reveal a distinct fluctuating course in the district. Following the highest level observed with 26,465 people in 2007, a stabilization in the range of 24–25 thousand in the early 2010s and a decreasing trend in the band of 21–22 thousand between 2012–2014 is noticeable. The population, which decreased to 18,928 people in 2022, experienced a short-term recovery, reaching 21,090 in 2023; It finally decreased again to 19,556 in 2024. These fluctuations show that the variability of economic opportunities in rural areas, migration trends and demographic renewal processes work together.
The average male preponderance of 1–2 percentage points in the gender composition can be explained by the employment opportunities offered by rural agriculture-based economic activities for the male workforce. However, the vast majority of women are actively involved in agricultural production and domestic labor; this stands out as a significant variable directly affecting the socioeconomic structure of the population. In Ayvacık, which gained district status with Law No. 3644 in 1990, the strengthening of administrative organization has enabled the regular maintenance of population registration systems and the expansion of public services. This periodicity has contributed to both infrastructure investments by local governments and the accuracy and accessibility of demographic data.
Educational infrastructure is a key element shaping the district's demographics. In addition to a single Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School, an Anatolian High School, and an Imam Hatip High School, the district center also boasts an Imam Hatip Middle School, three primary schools, a regional boarding school, and a kindergarten. Furthermore, a public education center, two student dormitories, and transportation services diversify the young population's access to educational opportunities, creating a significant foundation for raising educational levels and developing a skilled workforce. This structure has a somewhat mitigating effect on migration to higher education opportunities, particularly in provincial centers and metropolitan areas, while also contributing to an increase in the proportion of educated young people in the district. Furthermore, the region's limited social and cultural resources remain a significant factor driving the migration of some groups to urban areas.
Economy
The district economy is mainly based on agriculture, animal husbandry, forestry and freshwater fishing; industrial activities are limited.
The agricultural sector is a fundamental component of the district's economy. Due to the rugged terrain, agricultural areas are generally fragmented and small. The main agricultural products grown are corn and hazelnuts. Kiwifruit production has also been reported in recent years. Vegetables are also produced for family needs. Agricultural activities are generally family-run.
Livestock farming, along with agriculture, is another source of income. Cattle and sheep farming are common practices. The district's geography and vegetation provide suitable conditions for animal husbandry. Livestock farming is generally carried out on small-scale businesses to meet family needs.
The district's extensive forested areas ensure that forestry activities are integrated into the economy. Products obtained from forests and related activities contribute to the local economy.
The Hasan Uğurlu and Suat Uğurlu dam lakes have facilitated the development of freshwater fishing in the district. Various fish species (such as carp) are fished in the lakes, and this activity provides a source of income for some residents. Ayvacık's industrial sector is underdeveloped. There are no large industrial facilities in the district. Economic activity revolves primarily around small businesses, local trade, and services. The dam lakes and their surrounding natural beauty provide a platform for tourism-related economic activities. Some developments have been underway, or have potential, in areas such as water sports, hiking, accommodation, and food and beverage services. This could impact the future development of the service sector.
Tourism, Culture and Cuisine
The tourism potential of Ayvacık district is largely based on the dam lakes and their surrounding natural areas. The Hasan Uğurlu and Suat Uğurlu dam lakes offer favorable conditions for activities such as water sports (such as canoeing), angling, and boating. The landscapes created by the dam lakes also provide opportunities for photography and nature observation.
Kirazlık Island (Zevgar Island), located in the Hasan Uğurlu Dam Lake, is one of the district's geographical features that could be utilized for tourism. Access to the island is by boat and offers potential for recreational activities and accommodation (bungalow-style structures).
Among the district's natural assets is Yeşilpınar Waterfall (Çağlayan Waterfall), located approximately 20 kilometers from the district center within the administrative boundaries of Çağlayan Village. This waterfall, with its natural features, is a popular destination for visitors. Additionally, designated recreational areas like Çamlık and the district's plateaus offer other suitable recreational areas.
There are also historical structures within the Ayvacık district. The Eynel Bridge, located over the Yeşilırmak River and submerged by the dam after its construction, is a noted historical crossing point. The bridge, constructed of three arches and cut stone, is thought to date back to the Seljuk period or earlier, although its construction date is unknown.
Located near the Eynel Bridge and partially submerged by the dam's waters, Kızlar Castle (Asar Castle) is also included in the district's historical inventory. There are suggestions that the castle may be related to the Genoese or Pontic periods.
The district's folklore encompasses elements of traditional lifestyles. Items such as the loincloth, chador, abayas, and zipka are common in local clothing. Rugs and saddlebags are also weaved, and a local dialect is spoken. Social practices include traditional practices and beliefs such as rain prayers and Hıdırellez celebrations. Local folk dances include the horon and the "karma" (welcoming dance).
Ayvacık's cuisine reflects the characteristics of the Black Sea culinary tradition and is based on local agricultural products. Corn and anchovies are common staples in the local cuisine. Regional dishes include corn soup, keşkek, lepsi, cornbread, and Kaldırık roast, a local herb made with Kaldırık. Anchovies prepared with different cooking techniques also hold a significant place in the local cuisine. Desserts include pumpkin dessert and kuymak, prepared with corn flour. These products are indicators of the local culinary culture, shaped by the district's agricultural characteristics and geographical conditions.
