Bastoncular Bazaar (Zonguldak)

Devrek district, located within the boundaries of Zonguldak province, is a significant center known nationally and internationally for its tradition of cane production. Devrek cane crafting has a deep-rooted history extending back to the Ottoman period. The Kastamonu Vilayet Salnamesi (H.1310/M.1892) mentions artisans in Devrek engaged in cane production. In this context, Devrek cane crafting is not merely a craft but a way of life in which cultural heritage has been transmitted across generations. Geographically surrounded by forests, Devrek enjoys a natural advantage for cane production due to easy access to high-quality wood sources, primarily cornelian cherry trees. This feature has supported the development of the local craft and facilitated the widespread adoption and identity formation of cane making in the region.

The production of Devrek canes requires a high degree of manual skill and adheres strictly to traditional methods. The most commonly used wood type in cane production is cornelian cherry, valued for its durability and fibrous structure. Branches harvested during winter months are naturally dried for at least one year. This dried material is then processed in specialized kilns under controlled humidity to achieve the desired cane shape.

After kiln drying, the cane shaft is turned on a lathe, while the handle is typically crafted separately from dense hardwoods—often decorated with animal motifs carved by hand. Once the shaft and handle are joined, decorative techniques such as motif engraving, relief carving, kündekari inlay, wire inlay, and varnishing are applied to the surface. These techniques endow the cane with an aesthetic identity while also embedding personal, cultural and symbolic values. The designs developed by masters using animal figures—such as snakes, birds, turtles and squirrels—align with traditional Anatolian symbolism.

^{Cane Makers’ Bazaar} (Culture Portal)

Historically, Devrek cane crafting has been based on a traditional master-apprentice transmission system. This model ensures not only the transfer of technical knowledge but also the passing down of cultural values and the ethics of craftsmanship to new generations. However, in contemporary times, this transmission process is under threat due to difficulties in finding apprentices and the declining interest of younger generations in the craft. The decreasing number of masters risks the loss of traditional production techniques.

In response to this challenge, institutional structures such as the Devrek Cane Research and Application Center, established by the Devrek Municipality and Bülent Ecevit University, organize scientific research, educational programs and public training courses to ensure the sustainability of cane crafting. The participation of female artisans in the production process is also contributing to the evolution of this tradition into a more inclusive and contemporary framework.

Devrek canes are regarded both as traditional art objects and as economic commodities. Handmade canes produced by artisans vary in price according to the materials used, the level of craftsmanship and the complexity of the motifs, with prices ranging from 750 TL to 20,000 TL according to data from the Anatolia Agency. This price range reflects the dual nature of the cane as both a functional and an artistic product.

To promote and market cane production, the Devrek Cane and Culture Festival is held annually. The festival attracts both domestic and international tourists and facilitates the representation of the craft at international fairs. Devrek canes have been exhibited at craft fairs in cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt and Istanbul, contributing to regional promotion.

The Cane Makers’ Bazaar serves both as a production and exhibition space in Devrek district, allowing visitors to observe the traditional manufacturing process on-site. The shops within the bazaar are also regarded as living spaces that preserve Devrek’s cultural memory. This structure, which attracts both local and foreign visitors, contributes to the regional economy within the context of cultural tourism.

However, traditional cane crafting faces several challenges. The increasing prevalence of factory-made products has reduced demand for traditional handcrafted items, threatening economic sustainability. To counter this, proposed solutions include implementing geographical indication systems, enhancing artisans’ visibility on digital platforms and encouraging younger generations to engage with the craft.