Kastamonu (Province)

Kastamonu is a city in Black Sea Region, Türkiye, situated in the place region and having been home to various civilizations throughout history. Geographically, it lies at an elevation of approximately 780 meters above sea level along the Karaçomak Creek valley, at the northern foothills of the Sphere Mountains. Since antiquity, the area has been under the dominion of many civilizations including the Hittites, Phrygians, Lydians, Persians, Romans, and Byzantines, and was subsequently conquered by Turkic peoples from the 11th century onward. During the Seljuks and Ottoman periods, Kastamonu became an important trade and culture center, particularly developing as the capital of the Candaroğulları Beylik. The city features notable historical structures such as Kastamonu Castle, Nasrullah Camii, Mahmut Bey Camii, and Şeyh Şaban-ı Veli Türbesi. Its climate exhibits characteristics of the Black Sea climate in the north and a continental climate in the south, with the provincial economy based on agriculture, forestry, and animal husbandry.

Ilgaz Dağları

Etimology of the Name Kastamonu

There are various theories regarding the origin of the name Kastamonu, but none have been definitively proven. The most prominent etymological approaches are as follows:

Kaskians and Tumanna Theory

Some researchers suggest that the name Kastamonu is linked to the Kaskians, who inhabited the region during the Hittite period. Hittite texts mention a settlement called “Tumanna” or “Tummana” in the area where Kastamonu is located. It is therefore believed that the term Gastumanna, meaning “City of the Kaskians,” gradually evolved into Kastamonu.

Byzantine Era and Kastra-Komnen Theory

Another theory holds that Kastamonu derives its name from the Byzantine Empire. The combination of the Latin word “Kastra” (meaning fortress) and “Komnen” (a Byzantine dynasty name) gave rise to the term Kastra-Komnen, which later transformed into Kastamonu. This theory is based on the strategic importance of fortresses in the region during the Byzantine period.

Paphlagonia and Ancient Period Theory

Some researchers believe the name Kastamonu originates from the ancient region of Paphlagonia. The Paphlagonians were an ancient people who inhabited the Kastamonu region and surrounding areas, and may have influenced the naming of the region. However, this theory is less widely accepted compared to others.

Hittites and Kastama Theory

Some studies propose that the name Kastamonu evolved from the Hittite-era name Kastama, which was used for the same region. This name appears in Hittite records and is thought to have gradually transformed into Kastamonu over time.

Among these etymological theories, the most widely accepted are the Kastra-Komnen and Kaskians-Tumanna connections. However, there is no definitive consensus on the exact origin of the name Kastamonu.

History

Kastamonu and its surroundings have hosted numerous civilizations throughout history and played a significant role in the region’s political, economic, and cultural development. The earliest settlement traces extend back to the Paleolithic Era, and archaeological research in the villages of Tahta and Malak has revealed artifacts from the Middle Paleolithic period. Although there are no definitive findings from the Neolithic period, settlements from the Chalcolithic and Bronze Age have been identified.

Ancient Era and Early States

During the Hittite period, Kastamonu was part of a region known as Tum(m)main and was involved in conflicts between the Kaskians and Hittites. After the collapse of the Hittite Empire, the region came under the control of the Phrygians, followed by the Cimmerians and Lydians. In 546 BCE, Kastamonu and its surroundings were captured by the Persians and incorporated into the third satrapy of the Persian Kingdom. In 334 BCE, following Alexander the Great’s campaign, the region became part of the Kingdom of Pontus. After Alexander’s death, the area fell under the rule of the Kingdom of Pontus. Following conflicts between Rome and Pontus, Kastamonu came under Roman control in 64 BCE.

Çatak Kanyonu

Byzantine Period and Early Turkish Conquests

In 395 CE, with the division of the Roman Empire, Kastamonu became part of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. Under Byzantine administration, the region remained a strategic frontier and structures such as Kastamonu Castle were constructed. After the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, Turkic tribes began spreading across Anatolia, and Kastamonu became a target for Turkmen beyliks. From 1084 onward, Emir Karategin, subordinate to the Danishmendids, temporarily seized control of the region. However, the Byzantines recaptured Kastamonu, and the area remained a battleground in Byzantine-Turkic conflicts until the 12th century.

Anatolian Seljuks and Beylik Period

With Danişmend Gazi’s conquest of Kastamonu in the early 12th century, Turkish presence in the region became permanent. In 1196, Kastamonu and its surroundings were incorporated into the Anatolian Seljuk State. During this period, the Çobanoğulları Beylik, centered in Kastamonu and led by Hüsameddin, was established (1227–1309). Under Çobanoğulları rule, mosques, caravanserais, and bridges were constructed, and Kastamonu became an important trade center.

After the Çobanoğulları, Kastamonu came under the control of the Candaroğulları Beylik in 1309. The Candaroğulları established long-lasting dominance in Kastamonu and Sinop, with maritime activities gaining prominence during this period, making Sinop a major port center. Relations with the Ottomans strengthened in 1383, but in 1391, the city was incorporated into Ottoman territory following Bayezid I’s campaign against Kastamonu.

Ottoman Period

After coming under Ottoman rule, Kastamonu first became a sanjak center and later a provincial center. Following the defeat of Yıldırım Bayezid by Timur in the Battle of Ankara in 1402, the region reverted to the Candaroğulları. However, Fatih Sultan Mehmed definitively ended the Candaroğulları Beylik in 1461 to consolidate Ottoman authority in Anatolia, fully integrating Kastamonu into Ottoman lands. During the Ottoman period, Kastamonu became one of Anatolia’s key administrative and military centers. Evliya Çelebi noted in the 17th century that Kastamonu was a large city notable for its mosques, caravanserais, and markets. In the 19th century, Kastamonu became an important point in Black Sea trade, and various industry activities developed in the city.

National Struggle and Republican Period

During the War of Independence, Kastamonu played a vital role in Anatolia’s resistance movements. The port of İnebolu became a crucial center for smuggling arms and ammunition from Istanbul to Anatolia. Figures such as Şerife Bacı made great sacrifices to support the front. The people of Kastamonu actively participated in the National Struggle under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. With the proclamation of the Republic, Kastamonu became an important site in the modernization process. In 1925, Atatürk visited Kastamonu and initiated the Hat Revolution, leading the country’s modernization efforts. Today, Kastamonu continues to be recognized as a city notable for its historical heritage, natural beauty, and cultural values.

Ilıca Şelalesi

Geography

Kastamonu is a province located in the west section of Türkiye’s Black Sea Region. It borders Sinop to the east, Çorum to the southeast, Çankırı to the south, Karabük and Bartın to the west, and has a coastline along the Black Sea to the north. The province covers an area of 13,064 km², placing it among Türkiye’s larger provinces by surface area.

Landforms and Mountains

Kastamonu’s geography is characterized by mountainous and rugged terrain. The Ilgaz Mountains lie to the south and the Küre Mountains to the north, both extending parallel to the Black Sea. The highest point is Çatalılgaz Hill at 2,565 meters. Mountainous areas cover a large portion of the province, limiting accessibility and agricultural land.

Valleys and plateaus between the mountains also shape the province’s geography. Notably, the Devrekani, Vehicle, and Taşköprü plains are important areas suitable for agriculture.

Rivers and Lakes

Kastamonu has numerous rivers. Its most important river is the Gökırmak, a tributary of the Kızılırmak. Other significant rivers include the Karaçomak Creek, Devrekani Creek, Ilgaz Creek, and Araç Creek.

With limited Lake resources, Kastamonu has several lakes and reservoirs such as Yedigöller, Ilgaz Dam Lake, Karaçomak Dam, and Devrekani Dam.

Coastline and Access to the Black Sea

Kastamonu has a coastline of approximately 170 kilometers along the Black Sea, making it one of Türkiye’s provinces with the longest Black Sea shoreline. Districts such as Cide, İnebolu, and Abana are located along this coastal strip and feature natural beaches and coastal ecosystems. Along the Black Sea coast, cliffs and coves are common.

Two distinct climate types are observed in Kastamonu:

• Black Sea Climate: Dominant in the northern coastal areas, characterized by mild temperatures and abundant rainfall. Summers are cool and winters are mild, with precipitation occurring throughout the year.
• Continental Climate: Prevailing in the southern interior regions, with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters.

The Küre Mountains prevent moist air from the Black Sea from reaching inland areas, resulting in reduced influence of the Black Sea climate in the interior.

Vegetation and Natural Life

Kastamonu is one of Türkiye’s provinces with the largest forested area, with approximately 67% of its surface covered by forests. The Küre Mountains National Park is considered one of the most important conservation areas in Türkiye from a biodiversity perspective. Common tree species in the forests include beech, oak, black pine, Scots pine, fir, hornbeam, and chestnut. Along the coastal areas, plane trees, laurel, and chestnut trees are found. In terms of wildlife, Kastamonu is home to species such as brown bear, red red deer, vaşak, fox, wolf, wild boar, roe deer, and chamois.

Küre Dağları

Population

The total population of Kastamonu is 381,991. The majority of the population resides in rural areas, and the level of urbanization is lower than the national average. The most populous settlement is the provincial center with 156,638 inhabitants. It is followed by Tosya with 39,401 population and Taşköprü with 37,196 inhabitants. The least populous districts are Ağlı with 3,250 people, Şenpazar with 4,380 people, and Abana with 4,419 people.

The total population of Kastamonu province is 381,991, distributed among the center and districts as follows:

• Center: 156,638
• Abana: 4,419
• Ağlı: 3,250
• Araç: 18,452
• Azdavay: 7,462
• Bozkurt: 9,425
• Cide: 22,587
• Çatalzeytin: 7,626
• Daday: 7,992
• Devrekani: 12,544
• Doğanyurt: 5,173
• Hanönü: 4,322
• İhsangazi: 5,122
• İnebolu: 20,036
• Küre: 5,303
• Pınarbaşı: 6,036
• Seydiler: 4,627
• Şenpazar: 4,380
• Taşköprü: 37,196
• Tosya: 39,401

Population Growth and Migration

Kastamonu has been among the provinces with the highest emigration rates since the second half of the 20th century. A significant number of people of Kastamonu origin reside in major cities such as Istanbul and Ankara. Since the 2000s, the province’s population has fluctuated, with population declines due to emigration, but the provincial center has experienced growth due to internal migration from rural areas.

Age Distribution

The age distribution in Kastamonu is similar to the national average, with a relatively high proportion of elderly residents. Due to its economy based on agriculture and animal husbandry, the youth population in rural areas is declining. A significant portion of the young population migrates to large cities for education and employment opportunities.

Economy

Agriculture and Animal Husbandry

Agriculture and animal husbandry form the foundation of Kastamonu’s economy. The province’s extensive agricultural lands and fertile valleys support the cultivation of various agricultural products. The district of Taşköprü is one of Türkiye’s leading producers of high-quality garlic, and Kastamonu garlic holds a geographical indication certification. In addition, sugar beet, wheat, barley, maize, bean, apple, and walnut are significant crops.

Araç Yaylaları

Animal husbandry also plays a major role in the provincial economy. Large and small livestock farming is widespread in Kastamonu, with milk and meat production serving as a vital source of livelihood. Beekeeping has also developed, and Kastamonu honey is recognized as a local product in Türkiye.

Forestry and Wood Industry

Kastamonu is one of Türkiye’s provinces with the largest forest coverage, with approximately 67% of its surface area covered by forests. This has enabled the development of forestry and wood industries. Wood production and furniture manufacturing are significant economic activities across the province, particularly in the districts of Devrekani and İnebolu, where woodworking is a major source of income.

Industry and Mining

Although the industrial sector in Kastamonu is limited, it has begun to develop in recent years. Kastamonu Integrated Tree Industry is one of the province’s largest industrial enterprises, demonstrating strong performance in the wood products and furniture sector. In addition, flour, animal feed, dairy, and food industries have grown.

Mining is also an important sector in the province. Copper mines operate in the district of Küre, and this area is considered one of Türkiye’s significant mineral sources. Additionally, there are stone and marble mines throughout the province.

Trade and Transportation

The province’s commercial structure is shaped by agricultural and livestock products. Local products such as garlic, honey, grains, and wood products hold significant positions in Kastamonu markets. Small-scale commercial enterprises are concentrated in the provincial center. In terms of transportation, Kastamonu’s remote location from Türkiye’s major trade centers limits the development of industry and trade. Kastamonu Airport serves as an important transportation link for international trade and tourism, although flight traffic remains limited. Road infrastructure projects connecting to the Black Sea coastal highway and the Ilgaz Tunnel are key investments aimed at improving the province’s trade network.

Tourism

Although Kastamonu has high tourism potential due to its historical fabric, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, the tourism sector has not developed significantly. The province is rich in historical structures, natural areas, highlands, coastal zones, and faith-based tourism. However, the incomplete development of tourism infrastructure has limited the region’s tourism revenues.

Historical and Cultural Tourism

Kastamonu has hosted numerous civilizations from the Hittites to the Ottomans and possesses a rich historical heritage.

• Kastamonu Castle: Dating back to the Byzantine period, the castle is one of the city’s symbols. Surviving wall remains and structures within the inner castle are open to visitors.
• Nasrullah Camii: One of the most important places of worship from the Ottoman period, built in 1506 by Nasrullah Kadı. The mosque, its fountain, and surrounding area reflect Kastamonu’s historical character.
• Mahmut Bey Camii: Built in 1366 by the Candaroğulları Beylik, this wooden mosque is notable for its unique craftsmanship without the use of nails. It is listed on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List.
• Şeyh Şaban-ı Veli Külliyesi: One of Kastamonu’s most important faith-based tourism centers. The külliye, built in the 16th century, houses the tomb of Şeyh Şaban-ı Veli.
• Liva Paşa Konağı Ethnography Museum: This mansion, one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture, now serves as a museum reflecting Kastamonu’s traditional way of life.
• İsmailbey Külliyesi: Built by the Ottomans in the 15th century, this complex includes a mosque, bathhouse, and medrese.

Nature Tourism

Kastamonu is one of Türkiye’s provinces with the largest forested areas and holds great potential for nature tourism.

National Parks and Canyons

• Küre Mountains National Park: One of Türkiye’s most important biosphere reserves and recognized as one of Europe’s key natural conservation areas. It is of great importance for its rich vegetation, endemic species, and wildlife.
• Ilgaz Mountain National Park: Suitable for winter tourism and outdoor sports, Ilgaz Mountain is also a favored destination for hiking and camping.
• Valla Canyon: One of Türkiye’s deepest and most challenging canyons, Valla Canyon is a major destination for nature hikers and extreme sports enthusiasts. With depths ranging from 800 to 1,200 meters, it is among the country’s most impressive canyons.
• Horma Canyon: Located in the Pınarbaşı district, the canyon has become more accessible due to newly constructed hiking platforms. It connects with the Ilıca Waterfall, making it a significant stop for nature lovers.
• Çatak Canyon: This canyon, at an elevation of 900 meters, offers visitors a stunning view from its 450-meter-long glass terrace.
• Ilgarini Cave: One of Türkiye’s deepest caves, Ilgarini Cave attracts attention for its natural formations and historical structures. Inside the cave, rock tombs and church ruins believed to date from the Byzantine period are found. With abundant stalactites and stalagmites, the cave is an important route for trekking and nature hiking.

Highlands

Kastamonu’s highlands are of great importance for nature tourism. Notable highlands, known for their clean air, natural beauty, and local festivals, include:

• Gideros Highland: Located in the Cide district, this highland offers a unique natural beauty where sea and forest views merge.
• Ilgaz Highland: An important area for winter sports, the highland is also preferred for hiking and camping during summer months.
• İğdir Highland: An important area for those wishing to observe traditional highland life.
• Belören Highland: A favored destination for nature photographers due to its endemic vegetation and natural beauty.

Winter Tourism

Kastamonu, with Ilgaz Mountain, is one of Türkiye’s important winter tourism centers.

• Ilgaz Ski Center: Located on Ilgaz Mountain, the facility has great potential for winter sports and ski tourism. It provides services to tourists with ski slopes, telecabins, and accommodation facilities.

Coastal Tourism

Kastamonu has a coastline of approximately 170 kilometers along the Black Sea. However, coastal tourism development is limited. Although the coastal districts have high potential for nature and sea tourism, deficiencies in accommodation and infrastructure infrastructure hinder tourism growth.

• Cide: This seaside town, where green and blue meet, is notable for its quiet beaches and natural beauty. It is also considered for literary tourism due to being the birthplace of Rıfat Ilgaz.
• İnebolu: Known for its historical structures, Ottoman-era mansions, and natural coves. It holds historical importance as a logistical center during the War of Independence.
• Abana: One of Kastamonu’s best-known coastal tourism areas, attracting tourists with its beaches and festivals held during summer months.
• Çatalzeytin: This small coastal town on the Black Sea is favored by those seeking quiet holidays due to its clean beaches and nature-integrated accommodation areas.

Horma Kanyonu

Faith-Based Tourism

Kastamonu hosts important faith-based centers such as the Şeyh Şaban-ı Veli Türbesi. Additionally, the province has numerous tomb and historical mosques. Key faith-based tourism sites in Kastamonu include:

• Şeyh Şaban-ı Veli Türbesi and Külliyesi: One of Kastamonu’s most important religious centers, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
• Yakupağa Külliyesi: An Ottoman-era structure containing a mosque, medrese, and bathhouse.
• Hacı Bekir Camii: A structure dating back to the 14th century, bearing traces of Seljuk and Ottoman architecture.

Festivals and Cultural Events

Various festivals and cultural events are held annually in Kastamonu.

• Taşköprü Garlic Festival: Held annually in Taşköprü, one of Türkiye’s most famous garlic production centers, this festival is significant for agricultural tourism.
• Independence Road and Atatürk and the Hat Revolution Events: Events commemorating important moments in Republican history.
• Cide Rıfat Ilgaz Culture and Arts Festival: Organized in memory of Rıfat Ilgaz, one of Türkiye’s prominent literary figures.

Kastamonu Cuisine

Kastamonu cuisine is a fusion of Black Sea and Central Anatolian kitchen cultures, distinguished by its traditional flavors based on agriculture and animal husbandry. Meat and grain-based dishes form the foundation of Kastamonu cuisine. In addition, products with geographical indication certification and local desserts make Kastamonu one of Türkiye’s most original cuisines.

Banduma/Islama: A dish prepared by soaking Yufka or erişte pasta in broth and butter, then topping it with boiled chicken meat and walnuts. Particularly prepared during winter months, it is one of Kastamonu’s most famous regional dishes.

Etli Ekmek: In Kastamonu, etli ekmek is made by spreading minced or cubed meat mixture onto unleavened thin dough, then baking it in a stone oven. It has a denser dough texture compared to the version in Konya.

Pastırmalı Ekşili Pilav: This dish is prepared with beef pastırma, rice, chickpeas, and sour plum water. It is frequently prepared on special occasions in Kastamonu cuisine and has a unique flavor combining sourness with pastırma aroma.

Tirit: Tirit is made by soaking Bayat bread in bone broth and butter, then topping it with boiled meat and yogurt. It is a traditional dish prepared especially during wedding and special occasions in Kastamonu.

Kuyu Kebabı

Kuyu Kebabı: A type of kebab prepared by suspending lamb meat in specially dug pits and slow-roasting it over charcoal fire. This dish is commonly prepared in the Tosya and Taşköprü districts of Kastamonu and is typically served at large gatherings and weddings.

Pirinçli Mantı: Unlike traditional mantı, Kastamonu mantı is filled with rice instead of minced meat and is generally served with yogurt.