Kaz Mountains

The Kaz Mountains, located north of the Edremit Gulf, cover an area of 21,300 hectares and are situated in northwestern Türkiye between the provinces of Balıkesir and Çanakkale. They form the highest elevations of the Biga Peninsula. The ancient name of the Kaz Mountains is “Ida Mountain,” a Greek name from antiquity (Ἴδη – Ida). This region attracts attention due to its natural richness and its mythological and historical significance. The Kaz Mountains constitute the highest point of the Biga Peninsula, with its peak Karataş Hill reaching 1,774 meters. The mountain range serves as a boundary between the Marmara and Aegean regions and lies at the intersection of Mediterranean and Black Sea climates.

Kaz Mountains, 2024 (Photo: Melike Erol)

Geography and Climate

The Kaz Mountains extend in an east-west direction and are situated north of the Edremit Gulf. The region is surrounded by rich water sources, deep valleys, and canyons. The Şahindere Canyon is the most well-known of these natural formations. Rising from sea level to 1,774 meters, the elevation creates conditions for multiple climate types to coexist, enhancing the region’s biological diversity.

In Homer’s Iliad, Ida Mountain (Kaz Mountain) is described as “the mother of wild beasts with abundant springs.” Springs emerge throughout the Kaz Mountains, including those that flow year-round even at elevations of 1,500 meters. The icy-cold drinking and utility water for Edremit, Akçay, and Altınoluk originates from snowmelt on the Kaz Mountains. When the forest air from the Kaz Mountains combines with the iodine-rich, oxygen-abundant sea air, the Altınoluk Şahindere Strait and its surroundings are described as an “oxygen tent.” This location has been identified as one of the top three places in the world for oxygen abundance.

Kaz Mountains, (Türkiye Culture Portal)

Flora

The Kaz Mountains are exceptionally rich in plant diversity due to their location between the Europe-Siberia and Mediterranean phytogeographic regions. Over 800 plant species are found in the region, approximately 70 of which are endemic. The Kaz Mountain fir (Abies equi-trojani) is a unique species found only in this area. Other common tree species include Turkish pine, black pine, oak, chestnut, beech, and hornbeam.

Fauna

The Kaz Mountains host a rich variety of animal life. Species found in the region include wild boar, fox, jackal, wolf, badger, hedgehog, squirrel, bear, and numerous bird species. The presence of endemic and rare species further enhances the biological importance of the area.

History and Mythology

The Kaz Mountains have sheltered various civilizations since prehistoric times. Known historical settlements date back to around 2000 BCE, when cities such as Thebe, Lyrnessos, Khrysa, Killa, Anderia, Antandros, Adramytteion, Astrya, and Gargara were established, many of which were destroyed during the Trojan Wars.

The Kaz Mountains have been the subject of numerous myths and legends since antiquity. Ida Mountain (Kaz Mountain) is known worldwide as a mountain of myths and legends. Three prominent legends are associated with the Kaz Mountains: one from Greek mythology (the Iliad), and two Turkish legends—the love stories of Sarıkız and Hasan with Emine.

In Greek mythology, this is the site where Paris awarded the Golden Apple to Aphrodite, triggering the first beauty contest in the world. As is well known, the consequences of this contest directly led to the famous Trojan War in history.

Kaz Mountains National Park

In 1993, an area of 21,452 hectares was declared Kaz Mountains National Park. The park stretches from Zeytinli Çayı to Altınoluk along the northern shore of the Edremit Gulf. Natural attractions within the park include Sütüven Waterfall, Hasanboğuldu Reservoir, and the Şahindere Canyon. Walking trails, picnic areas, and viewing terraces are available for visitors. However, access to certain areas is restricted to protect the environment, and guided visits are recommended.

Sütüven (Hasanboğuldu), located 4.5 km from the village of Zeytinli, was established in 1992. The Hasanboğuldu Reservoir, fed by the Kızılkeçili Stream at the foothills of the Kaz Mountains, and the Sütüven Waterfall, which cascades 17 meters, have made this area increasingly popular in recent years. During the summer season, visitor numbers approach 100,000.

Hasanboğuldu Reservoir (Sütüven)

The Kaz Mountains are a vital area requiring conservation due to their biological diversity and ecosystem services. With their natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and historical significance, they are among Türkiye’s most valuable ecosystems.

Climate and Hydrography

The climate of the Kaz Mountains is predominantly Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, rainy winters. These climatic conditions directly influence the vegetation and agricultural activities in the region. The east-west orientation of the mountains creates microclimatic differences between the northern and southern slopes. Northern slopes experience lower average annual temperatures and higher precipitation, while southern slopes are warmer and receive less rainfall.

The Kaz Mountains are known as “Ida of the Thousand Springs” and are home to countless streams, springs, and rivers. Streams such as Zeytinli, Kızılkeçili, Hasanboğuldu, and Mıhlı serve as the lifeblood of the regional ecosystem. These water sources support the ecological balance of the area and meet agricultural and drinking water needs.