Göynük is a charming district of Bolu province, located 98 km from the city center, covering an area of 1,437 km², and situated at an altitude of 730 meters above sea level. The district has a population of 14,412. It is notable for largely preserving the traditional Turkish lifestyle culture of Anatolia, Ottoman architecture, and its natural texture. In 2017, the district was granted the "Cittàslow" (Slow City) title and was registered as an urban conservation area.

^{Göynük (Bolu Directorate of Culture and Tourism)}

History

The history of the district dates back to the earliest layers of Anatolia. The first settlers were the Proto-Hittites around 5000 BC; later, the Hittites, Phrygians (1200–620 BC), and the Kingdom of Bithynia (279–74 BC) dominated the region. The oldest written document of the Phrygians, which served as a northern border post, was discovered in 1966 in the village of Soğukçam. During the Roman period, structures such as Dadastan (the ancient name of Göynük), which was located on a military road route, and the Çatak Bath were built. Conquered by Osman Gazi in 1292, the district was reconstructed with a mosque and a bath in 1333 during the reign of Gazi Süleyman Pasha. In memory of the Sakarya Victory during the National Struggle, the Victory Tower was built in 1922.

Economy

The district's economy is based on agriculture (80%) and animal husbandry. Out of 150,506 hectares of land, 98,060 hectares are forested and 18,688 hectares are agricultural land. In 2022, 24,450 tons of wheat were produced; livestock inventory included 16,460 cattle and 22,082 small ruminants, totaling 38,532 animals. Beekeeping (23,952 kg of honey from 2,495 hives) and poultry farming (2,500 people employed at 1,033 farms) are other important sectors. In industry, 5 enterprises are active, and 20% of the population makes a living from forestry work.

Geographical Structure and Climate

The district is situated on a rugged terrain between the Sakarya River and Bartın Stream. The region is characterized by high plateaus and deep valleys, and is dominated by beech, boxwood, and pine forests. The climate has typical continental features: winters are snowy and cold, while summers are mild. Due to its forest wealth, the average annual precipitation is high. This geographical structure has led to the development of harmonious solutions in traditional architecture, such as garden courtyards ("hayat") and sloped roofs.

Culture and Tourism

Handicrafts

Göynük is one of the centers that keeps traditional handicrafts alive.

Weaving

The "Tokalı Örtü" (registered as a geographical indication), produced by women, is known for its edge embroideries and handmade clasps. Historically woven from silk/cotton thread, the covers are now produced using orlon yarn. Peşkir, "bükülü bez" (a type of wrapping cloth), and "alaca" (used for shalwar) are other traditional products.

Wood Carving

Walking sticks, decorative items, and kitchenware are made from beech, boxwood, and walnut trees. This craft, passed down from father to son, remains vibrant in the villages.

Preservation Efforts

The Local Handicrafts Training Center affiliated with the Municipality of Göynük passes on nearly forgotten techniques to future generations. Here, women produce weavings registered by the Turkish Patent Institute.

^{Göynük Handicrafts (Bolu Directorate of Culture and Tourism)}

Tombs

Tomb of Akshamsaddin: Built in 1464 in honor of Fatih Sultan Mehmet's mentor. Located in the courtyard of the Gazi Süleyman Pasha Mosque, the hexagonal structure made of limestone is renowned for its walnut coffin.

Tomb of Ömer Sekkin: Located in the Çeşme neighborhood, the octagonal tomb features a wooden door crafted in the kündekari technique and a muqarnas-decorated portico.

Tomb of Debbağ Dede: Dedicated to a saint said in legends to have performed morning prayers in Mecca, the tomb is a local pilgrimage site.

^{Tomb of Akshamsaddin (Bolu Directorate of Culture and Tourism)}

Lakes

Çubuk Lake: Located 11 km from the district center, the 15-hectare lake is surrounded by pine forests and is popular for carp and trout fishing. Windmills built as film sets add to the scenery.

Sünnet Lake Nature Park: Formed by a landslide, the 18-hectare lake with a depth of 22 meters and a 115-bed facility is ideal for picnics and nature walks.

Other Heritage Sites: The Victory Tower (1922), 175-year-old traditional mansions, and the geographically indicated "Tokalı Örtü" weavings contribute to the district’s cultural richness. Walking sticks and decorative items crafted through wood carving are living examples of traditional handicrafts.

^{Çubuk Lake (Bolu Directorate of Culture and Tourism)}