Beşikdüzü is a coastal district located in the west of Trabzon province, in Türkiye's Eastern Black Sea Region. The district, which carries the unique geographical features of the Black Sea, stretches along the coastline and stands out with its natural beauties. Hazelnut production in Beşikdüzü defines the agricultural identity of the district.
Beşikdüzü District (Beşikdüzü Municipality)
History
When delving into the historical depths of Beşikdüzü, it is observed that the region has been used as a settlement since ancient times. Although archaeological studies are not yet comprehensive, historical sources and surface surveys indicate that the first settlements date back to 2000 BCE. Throughout history, it has been within the sphere of influence of important civilizations such as the Kingdom of Colchis, the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and the Empire of Trebizond. With the Ottoman Empire's dominance over the Black Sea, Beşikdüzü was registered as a village subordinate to the Trabzon Sanjak. Administered as part of Vakfıkebir district for many years, Beşikdüzü gained municipality status in 1955 and was later organized as an independent district on May 9, 1990. While there are different views regarding the origin of the district's name, the most accepted explanation is that it comes from the "Beşik" (cradle) shaped natural cove on the coast, which provided a natural shelter allowing ships to dock. This natural harbor is thought to have had an important function in sea trade in the past.
Beşikdüzü Cable Car (Beşikdüzü Municipality)
Geography and Climate
Beşikdüzü is strategically located west of Trabzon city center, on the coast of the Black Sea. Its neighbors include Vakfıkebir to the east, Eynesil district of Giresun province to the west, and Şalpazarı district, located in the interior of Trabzon, to the south. The district's land generally has a rugged and mountainous structure; however, narrow and fertile plains are also present along the coastline parallel to the Black Sea. Small rivers originating from the district's lands reach the waters of the Black Sea. All characteristics of the typical Black Sea climate are distinctly experienced in Beşikdüzü. Summer is mild and rainy, while winters are generally temperate with snowfall. The consistent amount of precipitation throughout the year is a fundamental factor supporting the richness and greenness of the district's natural vegetation. Humidity is high in coastal areas and decreases towards inland regions.
Beşikdüzü District (Beşikdüzü Municipality)
Economy
The economic structure of Beşikdüzü is traditionally based on agriculture, trade, and fishing. In the agricultural sector, hazelnut cultivation is one of the district's most important sources of income, and Beşikdüzü is known for its high-quality hazelnuts. In addition to hazelnuts, products such as corn, tea, kiwi, and various vegetables and fruits are also cultivated by the local people. Thanks to its long coastline along the Black Sea, fishing also constitutes an important livelihood, especially for people living in coastal areas. Anchovy, horse mackerel, and other Black Sea fish contribute to the local economy. In the district center, there is a vibrant commercial life where agricultural products and small-scale industrial products are bought and sold. In recent years, with the gradual development of tourism, this sector's contribution to the district's economy is also increasing.
Historical Structures
Beşikdüzü and its surroundings host some historical structures that have survived from the past to the present. Among these structures are mosques dating from the Ottoman Empire period, fountains reflecting the architectural features of that era, and wooden houses that are characteristic examples of traditional Black Sea architecture (Trabzon Culture and Tourism Directorate). Especially in the villages along the coastline and in some settlements in the interior, old structures reflecting the region's cultural and architectural heritage can still be seen. However, in Beşikdüzü generally, the number of large and well-preserved historical artifacts is fewer compared to some other historically rich districts in the Black Sea Region.
Beşikdüzü District (Beşikdüzü Municipality)
Tourism
Beşikdüzü, with its natural beauties and calm atmosphere, is an attractive destination especially for local tourists during the summer months. The beaches located in the district center and along the Black Sea coast are ideal places for visitors who want to swim and enjoy the sun. In addition, the district's lush green hills and natural landscapes offer suitable environments for outdoor activities such as nature walks, picnics, and photography. Various restaurants serving local delicacies and different accommodation options are also available. However, Beşikdüzü's tourism potential has not yet been fully evaluated, and there are many aspects open to development in this area.
Culture
Beşikdüzü constitutes an important part of the rich and unique cultural heritage of the Black Sea Region. The local cuisine stands out with its authentic dishes made using fresh Black Sea seafood and corn flour. Black cabbage wraps, anchovy pilaf, mıhlama, and other local delicacies are worth tasting in Beşikdüzü cuisine. Horon, a lively folk dance performed to the vibrant rhythms of Black Sea music, is an important cultural expression of the local people. In the field of handicrafts, traditional crafts such as wood carving and weaving continue to exist today. In addition, the dialect known as Beşikdüzü accent, which includes local words and pronunciation differences, is also considered an important part of the region's culture.
Education
Education services in Beşikdüzü are carried out under the coordination of the District National Education Directorate. The district has schools at various educational levels, from preschool education institutions to primary schools, secondary schools, and high schools (Beşikdüzü National Education Directorate). These educational institutions meet the educational needs of the young generations living in Beşikdüzü and make significant contributions to preparing them for the future.
