Pazar is a district located on the Black Sea coast, east of Rize province in northeastern Türkiye. The district, with an area of 173 km², is surrounded by Ardeşen to the east, Çayeli to the west, and Hemşin and Çamlıhemşin districts to the south. It has an approximately 15-kilometer coastline along its northern border, opening to the Black Sea. It is approximately 38 kilometers away from the provincial center. The population density of the district runs parallel to Rize's average, considering its geographical limitations and the use of its natural areas. Due to its geographical location, it is advantageous in terms of transportation and logistics. The district is one of the settlements prominent for tea farming, coastal fishing, and rural tourism activities.

^{Pazar (Pazar Municipality)}

History

The history of Pazar dates back to the 6th century BCE. This settlement, known as Athina in ancient times, was located within the borders of the Kingdom of Colchis. It is one of the geographies mentioned in the Greek mythology's Golden Fleece legend. In ancient times, it was known as one of the trade points of the Eastern Black Sea. It developed as a coastal town during the Roman period and served religious and administrative functions during the Byzantine period.

The region, which came under the rule of the Empire of Trebizond, passed into Ottoman rule in 1461 with the conquest of Trebizond by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II. During this period, Pazar, a sub-district of Lazistan Sanjak, gained district status in 1928 after the declaration of the Republic. The name Athina was Turkified to "Pazar" during this process. In 1953, with the establishment of the Ardeşen district, some villages in the east were connected to this district.

Geography and Climate

Pazar district is located in a narrow area leaning against the Black Sea coast, at the northern foothills of the Eastern Black Sea Mountains. Geographically, it has slopes rising from the coast and steep valleys. Settlements are dense in the coastal section; in the inner parts, agriculture and plateauing are practiced.

Its climate is typical Black Sea climate. Regular rainfall and high humidity are observed throughout the year. The annual average temperature is 14.3°C, and the total precipitation is approximately 2,250 mm. Winters rarely drop below 0°C, while summers are cool and humid. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with a risk of floods and landslides. Due to microclimate effects, short-term climatic changes may be observed in some settlements at high altitudes.

Population and Demographics

According to the 2024 Address-Based Population Registration System (ADNKS) data, the total population of Pazar district is 31,776. Of the population, 15,981 are women and 15,795 are men. The population living in the city center is large, but settlements also continue in rural neighborhoods. Pazar has 1 central municipality and 48 villages. The majority of the population works in education, public services, and agricultural production. Young people are observed to migrate to metropolitan areas for university and employment. Temporary population increases may occur during the summer months.

Economy

The economy of Pazar district is based on agriculture and the service sector. The most widespread agricultural activity is tea production. Tea farming, which has continued since the 1940s, plays a central role in the regional economy. There are many private tea factories and cooperatives in the district. Additionally, hazelnuts, kiwi, corn, and some vegetables are also produced. Fishing is practiced in the coastal areas, with species such as turbot, horse mackerel, anchovy, and red mullet being caught.

The trade sector has developed around local consumption and the sale of agricultural products. Industrial activities are limited; there are small-scale food processing and carpentry workshops. The need for skilled labor in the tea sector has led to a structural change process in the regional economy.

Tourism, Culture, and Cuisine

Pazar district has a structure suitable for nature tourism with its forested areas, rivers, and plateaus. Kız Kalesi (Maiden's Castle), located in the district, is one of the notable structures with its position off the Black Sea coast. The district's plateaus are among the areas that attract visitors during the summer months. Walking paths, social areas, and camping sites have been created along the coast.

In cultural life, elements such as Laz music, horon (folk dance), and kemençe (a stringed instrument) stand out. Plateau migrations, the tradition of imece (communal help), and local festivals are among the traditional practices of the region. In the culinary culture, Rize-specific dishes are also common in Pazar. Dishes such as kale soup and wraps, cornbread, muhlama, anchovy pilaf, Laz pastry, pepeçura, and pickled stir-fry are frequently consumed. Products such as cheese and yogurt made with plateau milk have an important place in local consumption.