Fındıklı is a district of Rize Province in the Black Sea Region of Turkey. It is located 54 km east of Rize city center on the Black Sea coast. Known for its natural beauty, historical structures, and cultural diversity, the district is a center for tea cultivation and highland tourism.

^{Fındıklı (Fındıklı Governorship)}

History

The history of Fındıklı extends to ancient times. It is known that Colchis, Rome, Byzantium, and the Empire of Trebizond successively ruled the region. Fındıklı, which joined the Ottoman lands in 1509, gained district status in 1953. The old name of the district is "Vitze", meaning "branch" in Laz.

Geography and Climate

Fındıklı has a narrow coastal strip and mountain ranges rising immediately behind it, parallel to the sea. The district's area is 383 km². The region has a typical Black Sea climate; it receives abundant rainfall throughout the year and has high humidity. This climate provides favorable conditions for tea cultivation and forest products.

Population and Demographics

According to 2021 data, the population of Fındıklı is 16,487. There is 1 municipality and 23 villages in the district. A large part of the population is settled on the coast, and an increase in population is observed in the summer months.

Economy

Fındıklı's economy is mainly based on tea cultivation and processing. There are tea factories and processing facilities in the district. In addition, fishing and small-scale agricultural activities also contribute to the economy.

Fındıklı has the potential for tourism with its natural beauty and cultural richness. It is notable for its Çağlayan and Arılı valleys, historical stone arch bridges and highlands. There are suitable opportunities for many alternative tourism activities such as hiking, camping and mountaineering in the district.

Fındıklı cuisine includes the typical flavors of the Black Sea; local dishes such as hamsili pilav (rice with anchovies) and karalahana sarması (stuffed cabbage rolls) stand out.