Gebze is a district of Kocaeli province in Türkiye. Located in the Marmara Region, close to Istanbul, it is a strategic center for industry, trade, and logistics. Noteworthy for its history, geographical structure, economic activities, and cultural fabric, Gebze is one of Türkiye's fastest-developing regions.

Geography

Gebze is located on the northeastern coast of the Sea of Marmara, west of Kocaeli province. To its east is Izmit, to its west are Istanbul's Tuzla and Pendik districts, to its north is the Sea of Marmara, and to its south are Dilovası and Çayırova districts. The district's area is approximately 418 km². Gebze has slightly undulating terrain along with flat areas and is situated on the coast of Izmit Bay. The strategic location of the bay has made Gebze an important center for port and logistics activities.

In terms of climate, Gebze exhibits the typical characteristics of the Marmara Region. The district has a temperate climate, with hot and humid summers and mild and rainy winters. The annual average temperature ranges between 14-16°C.

History

Gebze's history dates back to ancient times. Throughout history, the region has hosted many civilizations such as Bithynia, Rome, Byzantium, Seljuk, and Ottoman. Known as “Dakibyza” or “Libyssa” in ancient times, the settlement was an important center due to its strategic location. One of the most significant figures in Gebze's history is the Carthaginian general Hannibal. Hannibal is rumored to have committed suicide in Libyssa in 183 BCE, and this event is an important anecdote regarding the region's history.

During the Byzantine period, Gebze was used as a defense and trade point due to its proximity to Constantinople (Istanbul). During the Ottoman period, the region maintained its importance as a gateway to Anatolia. While Gebze was an agricultural and trade center in the late Ottoman period and the early years of the Republic, it underwent a major transformation with industrialization in the second half of the 20th century.

With Kocaeli becoming a province in 1987, Gebze gained the status of a district affiliated with Kocaeli. Today, Gebze plays a key role in Türkiye's economic development with its industrial and technological investments.

Population and Demographics

As of 2023, Gebze's population is approximately 400,000. The district's population is constantly increasing due to the job opportunities offered by industrial facilities. Gebze is a district that receives migration from different regions of Türkiye, which has led to diversity in its demographic structure. A large portion of the population consists of young and working-age individuals.

Economy

Gebze is one of Türkiye's most important industrial centers. There are numerous organized industrial zones (OIZ) in the district. Among these, Gebze Organized Industrial Zone (GOSB), TOSB Automotive Supply Industry Specialized Organized Industrial Zone, Gebze Plastics Organized Industrial Zone, and Kocaeli-Gebze V (Chemical) Organized Industrial Zone stand out. These zones host hundreds of companies operating in sectors such as automotive, chemistry, plastics, metal, textile, and electronics.

Gebze is also in a critical location in terms of logistics. The ports located in Izmit Bay have made the district an important point for international trade. Furthermore, Gebze's proximity to Istanbul and its access to major transportation arteries like the TEM Highway and D-100 Road support logistics activities. Gebze also hosts technology and innovation centers such as TÜBİTAK Marmara Research Center and Informatics Valley, playing a significant role in Türkiye's R&D and technology development activities.

While agriculture used to hold a larger place in Gebze's economy, agricultural activities have decreased with industrialization. Nevertheless, olive, grape, and fruit-vegetable production are still carried out in the district.

Culture and Society

Gebze has been a meeting point for different cultures throughout history. This diversity is reflected in the district's cultural fabric. Different ethnic groups such as Turks, Lazi, Circassians, Kurds, Georgians, and Roma live together in Gebze. This cultural richness is evident in local festivals, food culture, and social events.

Cultural events held in Gebze include the Gebze Hünkar Çayırı Festival and various art exhibitions. Additionally, historical structures in the district, such as the Çoban Mustafa Paşa Mosque, offer examples of Ottoman architecture. Eskihisar Castle and the Hannibal Monument are also among the district's historical and tourist attractions.

In terms of education, Gebze has numerous primary schools, secondary schools, and high schools. Furthermore, Gebze Technical University is the most important institution in the district's higher education sector. The university conducts education and research activities in the fields of engineering, technology, and science.

Transportation

Gebze has one of Türkiye's most developed transportation networks. Road, rail, and sea transportation are very intensive in the district. The TEM Highway and D-100 Road connect Gebze to Istanbul, Ankara, and other major cities. The Marmaray line provides fast and modern railway transportation integrating Gebze with Istanbul's European side. Additionally, the High-Speed Train (YHT) line also passes through Gebze, offering fast transportation between Ankara and Istanbul.

The ports located in Izmit Bay are important for international maritime transport. The closest airport to Gebze is Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul, and transportation from the district to the airport is quite easy.

Tourist Attractions

Gebze offers various tourist attractions to visitors with its historical and natural beauties. The main tourist attractions are:

• Eskihisar Castle: This castle, dating from the Byzantine period, is located on the coast of the Sea of Marmara and was restored during the Ottoman period.
• Çoban Mustafa Paşa Mosque: Built in the 16th century, this mosque is one of the simple but elegant examples of Ottoman architecture.
• Hannibal Monument: It is a symbolic monument built to commemorate the Carthaginian general Hannibal, who died in Libyssa in ancient times.
• Hünkar Çayırı (Sultan's Meadow): This area, where Ottoman sultans used to stay, today hosts cultural events.
• Ballıkayalar Nature Park: Located near Gebze, this park is a popular destination for nature walks and picnics.

Administration

Gebze is a district municipality affiliated with Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality. The district municipality is responsible for the provision of local services. Gebze's administrative structure consists of neighborhoods, and there are more than 40 neighborhoods in the district.