Karabük (Province)

Karabük is a city in Türkiye’s West Black Sea Region that has expanded rapidly due to industrialization. It became an industrial center with the establishment of Kardemir Iron and Steel Factory in 1937, Türkiye’s first major industrial initiative, and attained provincial status in 1995, becoming Türkiye’s 78th province. Throughout history, Karabük, located within the region of Paphlagonia, has been home to various civilizations from the Hittites to the Byzantines and from the Ottomans to the present day. Safranbolu like Karabük stands out for its cultural heritage, preserved historical fabric, and inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage List, while also possessing tourism potential through its natural beauty, canyons, and caves. With extensive forested areas, Karabük has an economic structure developed around forestry products, iron and steel industries, and education. Since the opening of Karabük University, the city has experienced growth in terms of education and student population and occupies a strategic position where industry, culture and nature tourism converge.

History

Karabük derives its name from its geographical features. The word “Karabük” is formed by the combination of “kara” and “bük,” meaning “black shrubland place.” Throughout history, the city has hosted various civilizations and, with the industrialization drive of the 20th century, became one of Türkiye’s most important industrial cities.

Karabük in Prehistory and Antiquity

Although numerous artifacts and tumuli from prehistoric periods have been found in Karabük and its surroundings, systematic archaeological excavations have not been conducted in these areas. However, surface surveys indicate that the region’s history extends back to the Early Bronze Age (circa 2500 BCE). Notably, the village of Yazıboy in Eskipazar district is among the oldest settlements in the region.

In antiquity, Karabük and its surroundings came under the rule of the Hittites, Phrygians, Hellenistic kingdoms, and the Roman Empire. One of the most important settlements during the Hittite period was Eflani, known in Hittite sources as “Haluna.” During the Phrygian period, Kışlaköy in Ovacık district became a significant settlement. In the Hellenistic period, the Kingdom of Bithynia used the region as a base to defend against the Roman Empire.

During the Roman period, Karabük and its surroundings became an important settlement and trade center. The most significant Roman cities in the region were Hadrianapolis and Kimistene, located within the boundaries of today’s Eskipazar district. Hadrianapolis, one of Rome’s most important settlements in Western Black Sea region, is notable for its mosaics and church remains.

The Byzantine and Pre-Turkish Period

Roman dominance in the region continued with the founding of the Byzantine Empire in 395 CE. In the 10th century, the Byzantine Empire resettled various groups in the region to prevent Anatolia losses. During this period, Pechenegs, Cumans (Kipchaks), and Uzes—Christianized tribes—were settled in Karabük and its surroundings. As a result of this settlement policy, areas such as Eskipazar and Eflani began to undergo Turkification during the Byzantine era.

The Seljuk and Beylik Periods

After the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, the Seljuk commander Emir Karatekin captured Çankırı in 1082 and took control of the cities in and around Karabük. In 1084, Eflani and Safranbolu came under the control of the Anatolian Seljuk State. region With the weakening of the Anatolian Seljuk State, the region came under the rule of the Candaroğulları Beylik. The Candaroğulları were particularly influential in Safranbolu and its surroundings. In 1392, Ottoman Sultan Yıldırım Bayezid annexed the territories of the Candaroğulları, bringing Karabük and its surroundings under Ottoman sovereignty.

The Ottoman Period

During the Ottoman period, Karabük continued as a village under Safranbolu. In the 17th century, Safranbolu became one of the key centers of the Ottoman economy due to its location along trade routes and developed into a significant settlement. Safranbolu especially became an important city in terms of Ottoman wood architecture, characterized by its traditional Turkish houses. Karabük, however, remained a small village during this period. As the Ottoman Empire expanded its trade routes, economic activity increased in Safranbolu and its surroundings, and Karabük gradually began to importance importance.

The Republican Era and Industrialization

Karabük’s fate changed fundamentally during the Republican era. With the opening of the Ankara-Zonguldak railway in 1935, Karabük emerged from being a small village and gained strategic importance in terms of transportation. On 3 April 1937, under İsmet İnönü’s industrialization policy, the foundation of the Karabük Iron and Steel Factory was laid. This facility, Türkiye’s first integrated iron and steel plant, is regarded as one of the most important steps in the country’s heavy industry initiative. With the establishment of the iron and steel plants, Karabük rapidly grew, attracted migration, and became one of Türkiye’s major industrial cities. As the population increased, the Karabük Municipality was established on 25 June 1939, and on 3 March 1953, Karabük gained district status under Zonguldak Province. On 6 June 1995, a decree published in the Official Gazette merged the districts of Ovacık and Eskipazar from Çankırı and the districts of Eflani, Safranbolu, and Yenice from Zonguldak to form Karabük Province, making it Türkiye’s 78th province.

Today, Karabük continues to exist as one of Türkiye’s important cities due to its industry, historical fabric, and natural beauty. In particular, the Kardemir Iron and Steel Factory continues to shape the city’s economic and social structure. Meanwhile, Safranbolu, with its Ottoman-era architecture, has been included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List and gained major significance in tourism.

Geographical Structure

Karabük is a city located in Türkiye’s Western Black Sea Region that has developed rapidly alongside industrialization. Its location, landforms, climate, and natural resources give it both strategic and natural importance.

Location and Boundaries

Karabük lies between 41° 11' and 41° 34' north latitudes and 32° 04' and 33° 06' east longitudes. Located in northwestern Türkiye, Karabük is situated in the inland areas of the Western Black Sea Region.

• North: Bartın
• East: Kastamonu
• South: Çankırı
• West: Zonguldak and Bolu

The city center is approximately 270 meters above sea sea level and has a rugged land topography.

Climate

Karabük’s climate exhibits diverse characteristics as it lies at the intersection of the Black Sea and continental climates. The northern regions, adjacent to the Western Black Sea, experience a milder and wetter Black Sea climate. In the inland and high-altitude areas, the continental climate dominates, with hot and dry summers and cold and snow snowy winters.

The annual average temperature is around 13–14°C. Temperatures reach 30°C during Summer months and can drop to -10°C during winter months. Although precipitation patterns are irregular, rainfall is higher during autumn and winter months. Snowfall is common between November and March.

Landforms

Karabük’s landforms are highly diverse and generally consist of mountains, plateaus, and valleys.

• Soğanlı and Küre Mountains: Among the most important mountain formations in the city. The Soğanlı Mountains, located along the southern boundary of the province, reach elevations of up to 1,750 meters.
• Safranbolu Plain: One of the most important plains for agricultural activities.
• Filyos Valley: One of the most important valleys connecting the eastern and western parts of the city. The Filyos River is also one of the region’s largest watercourses.

While the city center is at approximately 270 meters, elevations in districts such as Yenice, Eflani, and Ovacık reach up to 1,500 meters.

Natural Resources and Minerals

Karabük is particularly rich in underground resources, especially iron ore and forest resources.

• Iron Ore: The Kardemir Iron and Steel Factory, one of Türkiye’s most important iron and steel production facilities, was established based on this richness.
• Forest Areas: Approximately 65% of Karabük’s area is covered by forests.
• Limestone and Chalk: Play an important role in construction and cement industries.

Although Karabük’s agricultural land is relatively limited, the city is rich in forest products and industrial raw materials.

Rivers and Dams

Karabük has numerous rivers, primarily the Filyos River and its tributaries. The most important water sources are:

• Filyos River: The largest water source in Karabük, flowing through the eastern part of the city.
• Soğanlı River: An important river originating from the Çankırı border.
• Araç River: A river flowing from the east and joining the Filyos River.

Although there are no large-scale dams in the city, small reservoirs exist to meet agricultural irrigation and drinking water needs.

Seismic Activity

Although Karabük is located near the North Anatolian Fault Line, it is not within the first degree earthquake seismic zone. However, due to its proximity to the Kastamonu and Zonguldak regions in the Western Black Sea, it carries a moderate earthquake risk. Although no major destructive earthquakes have occurred in the city throughout history, earthquakes in nearby environment provinces have been felt in Karabük. Due to the strong nature of the ground structure, major collapses are rarely observed. Karabük stands out as a city with climatic and geographical building diversity, rich underground resources, and low earthquake risk.

Economic Structure

Karabük’s economic structure consists of various sectors including industry, trade, agriculture, forestry, and tourism. The city industrialized and developed its economy based on the Kardemir Iron and Steel Factory, Türkiye’s first major industrial investment. In addition, Safranbolu’s cultural heritage supports tourism, extensive forested areas provide resources for forestry and wood industries, and agricultural activities remain a vital livelihood source in rural areas.

Industry and Production

Karabük’s industry is built around iron and steel production and related secondary industries. KARDEMİR, Türkiye’s first iron and steel factory, is the backbone of the city’s economy.

Karabük Iron and Steel Industry

KARDEMİR was established in 1937 and remains one of Türkiye’s most important iron and steel producers. After privatization in 1995, KARDEMİR continues to be the locomotive of the city’s economy, directly employing 4,111 people. In addition to KARDEMİR, more than 45 small and medium-sized iron and steel production facilities operate in the city’s industrial zones.

Organized Industrial Zones (OIZ) and Small Industrial Sites

Karabük has two Organized Industrial Zones (OIZ) and three Small Industrial Sites supporting industrial development.

• Karabük Organized Industrial Zone: Notable for iron and steel production, machinery manufacturing, construction materials, and metal industries.
• Eskipazar Organized Industrial Zone: Used as an expansion area for industrial investments.
• Small Industrial Sites: Host small and medium-sized artisans in automotive, carpentry, foundry, and other sectors.

Trade and Service Sector

Karabük is a city where industry and trade are closely intertwined. Trade in raw materials and by-products linked to iron and steel production holds significant importance.

• Domestic and international trade: Iron and steel products are exported both domestically and internationally.
• Service sector: With the establishment of the university, sectors such as cafes, restaurants, accommodation, and entertainment have developed.
• Local artisans and shopping malls: Alongside traditional commerce, Karabük has several large shopping centers.

Agriculture and Livestock

Twenty-two point four percent of Karabük’s area is agricultural land. Although the agricultural sector constitutes a small part of the city’s economy, it remains a vital livelihood source in rural areas.

Main Agricultural Products

• Wheat and Barley (Cereals)
• Corn and Potatoes
• Vegetables and Fruits
• Saffron (the world’s most valuable spice, cultivated in Safranbolu)

Livestock and Forestry

• Small livestock farming: Goat and sheep breeding are practiced in rural areas.
• Large livestock farming: Developed for milk and meat production.
• Beekeeping: Karabük is known for organic honey production.
• Forestry: Approximately 65.5% of Karabük’s area is covered by forests. Therefore, furniture, wood industry, and timber production are significant economic activities.

Demographic Structure

According to TÜİK’s official data, Karabük Province’s population has shown a gradual increase in recent years. Based on the most recent data (2022–2023), the total population of Karabük Province is approximately 250,000 to 255,000. About 75–77% of this population resides in urban settlements (e.g., Karabük Central District), while the remainder lives in rural areas (districts such as Eflani, Eskipazar, Ovacık, Safranbolu, and Yenice). Additionally, with a total area of approximately 4,142 km², the population density is around 60 people per km².

The province consists of six districts (Karabük Central, Eflani, Eskipazar, Ovacık, Safranbolu, and Yenice). Following industrialization, especially with the establishment of Türkiye’s first iron and steel factory, Kardemir, significant migration occurred toward the center, attracting young and educated labor. This situation led to the emergence of a young and dynamic population structure in the province. Gender distribution is generally balanced, with nearly equal male and female ratios. However, in some districts, particularly more rural ones (e.g., Ovacık), population decline has been observed, a result of internal migration toward urban centers.

Districts

Karabük consists of six districts administratively.

• Central District: 137,428
• Eflani: 8,352
• Eskipazar: 12,767
• Ovacık: 3,731
• Safranbolu: 70,409
• Yenice: 19,371

Tourism and Cultural Economy

Karabük’s cultural and natural heritage holds significant potential for tourism. Safranbolu, after its inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage List, has become a major contributor to the tourism economy.

Elements Contributing to Tourism Economy

• Safranbolu Houses and Cultural Heritage
• Hadrianapolis Ancient City
• Tokatlı Canyon, İncekaya Water Channel, Yenice Forests
• Student mobility from Karabük University
• Boutique hotels, restaurants, and souvenir industry

Thanks to tourism, sectors such as accommodation, restaurant management, handicrafts, and souvenir trade have developed.

Transportation and Logistics

Karabük is an important logistics center due to its railway and road connections to Ankara and Zonguldak.

• Railway: Karabük has direct railway connections to Ankara and Zonguldak. Rail transport plays a vital role in moving iron and steel products.
• Road: Karabük lies on major highways connecting Istanbul and Ankara.
• Air: Karabük has no airport; the nearest airport is Ankara Esenboğa Airport (240 km away).

Karabük’s economy is largely based on industry. KARDEMİR and its associated iron and steel secondary industries form the largest share of the provincial economy, while tourism, forestry, and the service sector enhance economic diversity. Agriculture and livestock, though relatively small-scale, continue to serve as livelihood sources in rural areas. With industrial investments, tourism development, and strengthened transportation infrastructure, Karabük’s economy holds significant future growth potential.

Infrastructure

Karabük’s infrastructure has developed in parallel with its industrialization and urbanization, advancing in areas such as transportation, education, health, and energy. The city’s infrastructure was initially shaped to meet the needs of the iron and steel industry and has recently expanded into a broader structure due to university development and tourism growth.

Urban Transportation

Karabük’s urban transportation varies due to differences between newly developed urban areas and older settlements.

Public Transportation

Urban transportation is provided by minibuses and public buses. Special routes have been established for student transportation following the founding of Karabük University. Regular minibus services operate between Safranbolu and other districts.

Road Network

Karabük is connected by road to major cities such as Istanbul and Ankara. It is integrated into the national transportation network via the D-755 Highway and the Gerede-Ankara Motorway. Roads in inland areas have been widened and modernized.

Inter-City Transportation

Road

Regular bus services connect Karabük to Ankara, Istanbul, Kastamonu, Zonguldak, and Bolu. The bus terminal is located in the city center, with access provided by minibuses and taxis.

Railway

Karabük lies on the Ankara-Zonguldak railway line, one of Türkiye’s major rail networks. Due to iron and steel production, rail transport plays a significant role in freight logistics. The train station, located 2 km from the city center, provides direct access to Ankara and Zonguldak.

Air

Karabük has no airport. The nearest airport is Ankara Esenboğa Airport (240 km away). Regular bus services from Safranbolu and Karabük connect to the airport.

Universities and Educational Infrastructure

With the establishment of Karabük University (KBÜ) in 2007, Karabük strengthened its educational infrastructure and became an important educational center in the region.

Karabük University (KBÜ)

With a capacity of 52,771 students, it is the largest educational institution in the region. It serves with 955 academic and 459 administrative staff. It is equipped with modern campus facilities, library, laboratories, sports halls, and student dormitories. It is notable for departments such as the Technology Faculty, Faculty of Engineering, and Faculty of Health Sciences.

Primary and Secondary Education

There are 195 school schools in Karabük. 37,255 students receive education in 2,133 classrooms. There are 14 private schools, 9 driver courses, 14 various course, and 6 special rehabilitation centers.

Vocational and Technical Education

Vocational high schools oriented toward industry are widespread in Karabük. Institutions providing technical training to supply manpower for the iron and steel industry are present.

Health Infrastructure

Karabük has improved regional health services and established a significant infrastructure through public health services.

Hospitals and Health Facilities

Karabük Education and Research Hospital (operating as State Hospital). Private hospitals and medical centers (e.g., Özel Medikar Hospital). Family health centers and district health clinics are present. University Hospital has strengthened health services with academic support.

Health Tourism

Thermal springs in Karabük and Safranbolu are being developed for health tourism. Healthy living centers and alternative medical practices using natural products are becoming widespread.

Energy and Infrastructure Projects

As an industry-based city, Karabük has high energy demands, and infrastructure projects are integrated with industrial needs.

Electricity and Natural Gas

Karabük has strengthened its electricity infrastructure to meet industrial requirements. Natural gas infrastructure is largely completed in the city center.

Water and Waste Management

The city has water treatment facilities. Waste management and recycling projects are increasingly widespread.

Urbanization and Urban Transformation

Unplanned urbanization occurred in Karabük due to migration since the 1950s, but in recent years, urban transformation projects have brought modern urban planning to the forefront.

New Settlement Areas

• 5000 Houses Area: Developed through cooperatives with planned construction.
• Şirinevler and Yenişehir Neighborhoods: Residential areas targeting higher-income groups.
• Yüzüncü Yıl Neighborhood: Developed alongside Karabük University, it has become a new attraction with modern housing projects, student dormitories, cafes, and shopping centers.

Urban Transformation Projects

Urban transformation projects by TOKİ are underway in Cevizlidere, Fatih, and Soğuksu neighborhoods. Transformation and infrastructure improvement efforts continue in areas with high concentrations of informal settlements.

Karabük’s infrastructure has developed through an industry-based urbanization model and is supported by modern transportation, education, and health facilities. Railway and road connections are strong, health infrastructure is adequate, and energy and urban transformation projects are progressing. Karabük University and Safranbolu’s tourism potential have accelerated the modernization and expansion of infrastructure. In the coming years, industrial investments and urban transformation projects are expected to further enhance the city’s infrastructure.

Cuisine

Karabük cuisine is a rich culinary tradition reflecting the Western Black Sea’s traditional kitchen culture alongside traces of Ottoman and Turkmen cuisines. Especially Safranbolu cuisine, influenced by its location on the historic Silk Road, boasts a wide variety of dishes. The city’s cuisine reflects traditional Anatolian cuisine based on agriculture and livestock, consisting of nutritious and filling dishes made from local herbs, cereals, and meat products.

General Characteristics of Karabük Cuisine

• Dough-based and cereal dishes are prominent (Bükme, Bandırma, Perohi).
• Ottoman culinary influences are evident in meat and vegetable dishes (Kuyu Kebabı, Meat-stuffed Grape Leaves).
• Local products and vegetables characteristic of Black Sea cuisine are used (Corn Bread, Olive Oil Kapuska).
• Safranbolu cuisine is notable for its use of saffron (Saffron Pilaf, Saffron Zerde).
• Traditional Anatolian dishes such as Keşkek are still widely consumed.

Traditional Dishes

Soups and Starters

Soups hold an important place in Karabük cuisine. Nutritious and filling soups, often based on cereals and legumes, are frequently consumed in winter months.

• Soup of Milk Keşkek: A special soup made with keşkek wheat, milk, and butter.
• Vinegar Head Soup: A strongly aromatic soup made with beef head and vinegar.
• Sulu Yayım Soup: A thick soup made with flour, yogurt, and butter.
• Rice Soup: A light starter made with rice and yogurt.
• Oğmaç Soup: A simple yet nutritious soup made with flour and water.

Meat Dishes and Kebabs

In Karabük cuisine, meat dishes are typically prepared with lamb and beef. Kebab varieties and pot dishes reflect Black Sea culinary influences.

• Kuyu Kebabı: Lamb cooked slowly over heavy fire in specially dug pits; one of Karabük’s most famous dishes.
• Meat-stuffed Grape Leaves: A traditional dish originating from Ottoman cuisine, made with minced meat wrapped in grape leaves.
• Whole Meat Dish: A special dish made by boiling lamb or beef without bones.
• Meat and Okra: A traditional Ottoman dish, indispensable for those who enjoy sour flavors.
• Şehzade Pilaf: A traditional pilaf made with beef, almonds, and spices.

Dough and Cereal Dishes

Karabük cuisine is rich in dough dishes, typically prepared as oven meals.

• Safranbolu Bükme: A traditional börek made with spinach, cheese, and minced meat filling.
• Çullu Börek: A special variety of börek made with chicken or minced meat.
• Bandırma: A traditional dish made by soaking flatbread in meat broth and butter.
• Perohi: A famous variation of mantı from Black Sea cuisine, available with yogurt, minced meat, and walnut versions.
• Corn Bread: The traditional bread of the Black Sea region, made with corn flour.

Vegetable and Legume Dishes

Vegetable dishes are especially consumed as staple meals in Karabük cuisine during winter months.

• Olive Oil Kapuska: A traditional dish made with cabbage and olive oil.
• Dilme Pakla: A special vegetable dish made with beans, tomatoes, and onions.
• Buttered Long Pakla: A bean dish unique to the Black Sea region.
• Keşkek: A dish made with wheat and meat, traditionally served at weddings and special occasions.

Desserts and Saffron Use

Desserts hold an important place in Karabük cuisine, especially the famous desserts of Safranbolu.

• Saffron Zerde: A traditional Ottoman dessert made with saffron and rice.
• Höşmerim: A light and delicious dessert made with flour, butter, and sugar.
• Şehzade Salad: A special dessert type made with saffron, hazelnuts, and dried fruits.

Traditional Beverages

• Saffron Tea: One of the most distinctive beverages in Karabük cuisine.
• Homemade Pekmez: Grape and mulberry pekmez are widely consumed.

Karabük cuisine is a rich flavor world blending Ottoman, Turkmen, and Black Sea culinary traditions. Cereals, vegetables, meat dishes, and especially saffron-flavored flavors form the core components of the cuisine. Combined with Safranbolu’s tourist identity, the culinary culture offers unique contributions to traditional Turkish cuisine through dishes such as saffron pilaf, saffron zerde, and bükme.

Historical Structures

Karabük possesses significant cultural and architectural heritage from the Paphlagonia region. The city contains numerous work from the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods. Particularly, the district of Safranbolu resembles an open-air museum with its Ottoman-era houses, mosques, caravanserais, baths, and bazaars. Safranbolu, listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, is recognized as one of the best-preserved cities in the world for its preserved Ottoman architecture.

Ancient Structures

Hadrianapolis Ancient City (Eskipazar)

Hadrianapolis is an important settlement from the Roman period, known as “Paphlagonia Hadrianapolis.” The ancient city is located within the boundaries of the villages of Budaklar, Büyükyaylalar, Çaylı, and Beytarla in Eskipazar district. Three Early Byzantine churches are present within the settlement. The site contains church mosaics, rock tombs, and cisterns. The mosaics depict the four rivers of paradise according to Christian belief (Phison, Geon, Euphrates, Tigris). Hadrianapolis is an archaeological center offering important insights into early Christianity in the Black Sea region.

Bulak / Mencilis Cave (Safranbolu)

The Bulak Cave, located near Safranbolu district in Karabük, is one of the largest caves in the Black Sea region.

Of its 6.5 km length, 380 meters are open to tourism. Inside, subterranean rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and stalactite-deposit formations are found. It is officially registered as a natural existence and is open to visitors.

Historical Structures from the Ottoman Period to the Present

Cinci Han (Safranbolu)

Cinci Han was built in 1645 by Karabaşzade Hüseyin Efendi of Safranbolu (Cinci Teacher). Due to its location on the Silk Road, it served as an important accommodation for merchants. Restored in the 20th century, it began operating as a hotel, restaurant, and café. It is a two-story structure with 63 rooms.

Köprülü Mehmet Paşa Mosque (Safranbolu)

Grand Vizier Köprülü Mehmet Pasha commissioned its construction in 1661. It follows a Square plan and features traditional Ottoman mosque architecture. The mosque courtyard includes a şadırvan and sun clock. Restoration was completed in 2019, and it reopened for worship.

İzzet Mehmet Paşa Mosque (Safranbolu)

Commissioned by Ottoman Grand Vizier İzzet Mehmet Paşa in 1796, it was designed as a smaller model of the Nuruosmaniye Mosque. Its interior, adorned with pen work, mihrab, and minbar, is notable. The tughra of Sultan III. Selim is located inside the mosque.

Water Channels and Historical Fountains

İncekaya Water Channel (Safranbolu)

The İncekaya Water Channel was built in the 18th century by Grand Vizier İzzet Mehmet Paşa during the Ottoman period. It is 116 meters long and 60 meters high. Constructed to meet Safranbolu’s water needs, it now spans the Tokatlı Canyon and serves as a tourist gravity center.

Baths and Bazaars

Cinci Hamam (Safranbolu)

Constructed in the 17th century by Cinci Hüseyin Hoca, it is one of the important examples of Ottoman bathhouse architecture. It has separate sections for women and men. It belongs to the cross-shaped hot bath group. According to its foundation deed, it was built in the name of Cinci Hoca’s mother, Hamide Lady. It currently operates actively.

Yemeniciler Arastası (Safranbolu)

Yemeniciler Arastası, Safranbolu’s traditional commercial center, was a bazaar during the Ottoman period specializing in shoes and leatherwork. Located adjacent to Köprülü Mehmet Paşa Mosque, it consists of 48 wooden shops. Built according to the traditional guild system, it has been restored and now operates as a tourist bazaar.

Traditional Ottoman Houses and Urban Heritage

Safranbolu Houses

Safranbolu is one of the best-preserved examples of Ottoman civil architecture and is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. There are 1,457 registered Ottoman mansions. It reflects the most beautiful examples of traditional Turkish residential unit architecture. Wooden carvings, stone foundations, and cumbalı structures are distinctive features.

Yörük Village

Yörük Village is a small-scale model of Safranbolu and was declared a protected urban area in 1997. It is one of the most important representatives of Yörük culture in Anatolia. Wooden mansions built according to Ottoman architecture are present. Traditional Turkish houses such as the Sipahioğlu Mansion are open to visitors.

Natural and Historical Sites

Tokatlı Canyon

One of Safranbolu’s most famous natural beauties, formed by erosion of limestone layers. It features a walking trail approximately 9 km long. Within it are the İncekaya Water Channel and Crystal Mosque Terrace.

Şeker Canyon

The Sugar Canyon, located on the Karabük-Yenice road, is suitable for nature sports. It features steep cliffs 100–250 meters high. It is ideal for rafting, camping, rock climbing, and bicycle tours. Karabük possesses a rich historical heritage from antiquity to the Ottoman period. Particularly, the district of Safranbolu is recognized as one of the best-preserved Ottoman cities, both in Türkiye and globally, as an important cultural heritage site. With its ancient ruins, Ottoman-era bazaars, caravanserais, mosques, and natural beauties, Karabük is a city where history and nature are intertwined.

Administration

Karabük’s administration has been conducted by governors and municipality mayors in parallel with Türkiye’s administrative structure since 1923. After attaining provincial status in 1995, Karabük has been governed by governors representing the central government and mayors leading local administration.

Governorship

When Karabük attained provincial status in 1995, it was formed by merging districts separated from Çankırı and Zonguldak provinces. Since then, the Karabük Governorship has been managed by governors appointed by the Ministry of Interior as representatives of the central government.

Municipal Administration

Karabük’s municipal organization was established on 25 June 1939. In 1941, Karabük was a subdistrict under Safranbolu district, gained district status in 1953, and became Türkiye’s 78th province in 1995. Municipal administration developed alongside urbanization and industrialization, expanding significantly with the establishment of Kardemir and the growth of social infrastructure. Municipalities in Karabük have implemented urban planning, housing projects, and infrastructure works driven by industrialization.

In the 2024 local elections, AK Party candidate Özkan Çetinkaya won the mayoral position with 33.71% game and assumed office. Prior to the election, MHP’s Rafet Vergili, who held the mayoral position, received 26.28% of the vote and came in second. In other districts of Karabük, Hüsnü Akın of MHP won in Eflani, Serkan Cıva of AK Party in Eskipazar, Ahmet Shahin of AK Party in Ovacık, Elif Köse of CHP in Safranbolu, and Şekip Sertaş Karakaş of AK Party in Yenice.