The district of Yağlıdere is a settlement with steep and rugged terrain, 4 km from Giresun city center and 14 km inland from the Black Sea coast. The district, with an elevation of approximately 50 m, covers an area of 350 km². During the Ottoman period, the first mosque was built in 1811, and the settlement became known as "Câmiyanı" (Camiyanı). It gained district status in 1987.
The numerous streams fed by the Yağlıdere Stream, combined with abundant rainfall, make the region vulnerable to flooding. While the economy is primarily based on hazelnut farming, animal husbandry, beekeeping, and forestry, trout farming has also gained importance in recent years. Two hazelnut cracking plants and small-scale woodworking workshops operate in the district, and copper and zinc mineral deposits are also present.
Despite the strong potential for nature tourism, tourist activities, aside from plateau festivals, are not yet developed. Handicrafts include lace, saddle making, rug making, carpet making, and basket weaving.
Yağlıdere (Source: Giresun Foundation )
History
The history of Yağlıdere, a district of Giresun province, parallels the general historical processes of the Black Sea region, but also possesses unique local dynamics. The region's geography and the stream flowing through it played a significant role in the settlement's naming and history. While there are various accounts of the origin of the name Yağlıdere, the most common are related to the wars fought in the region or local production activities. One account states that it was named after the army's animals perished in the region during the campaigns against the Empire of Trebizond during the reign of Mehmed the Conqueror, and their fat flowed into the stream. Another account points to the abundance of traditional butter production in the region.
Although the region's known history dates back to the periods before the arrival of Turks in Anatolia, the specific settlement of Yağlıdere began with the settlement of Turkmen tribes, particularly the Chepni. The Chepni, who played a significant role in the Turkification of the Eastern Black Sea region, settled in this mountainous and valley-like landscape and shaped the region's demographic and cultural structure. With the conquest of the Empire of Trebizond by Mehmed the Conqueror in 1461, Yağlıdere and its surrounding area came under Ottoman rule. Within the Ottoman administrative structure, the region long remained within the borders of larger administrative units such as Giresun or Espiye, which were affiliated with the Province of Trabzon.
Administrative regulations implemented during the Republican era brought changes to Yağlıdere's status. For many years, it existed as a village or sub-district center within the Espiye district. The region's growing population and evolving socio-economic structure necessitated the need for an administratively independent district. As a result of efforts undertaken in this direction, Yağlıdere gained district status with Law No. 3392, enacted on June 19, 1987, becoming a district of Giresun province. This date marks a significant turning point in Yağlıdere's modern administrative history. With its district status, its own administrative institutions were established, and the provision of local services was accelerated.
Today, Yağlıdere continues to develop while preserving the identity shaped by its historical process. The district's history has been enriched not only by administrative changes and wars, but also by the cultural heritage, traditions, and lifestyle of the local people.
Geography and Climate
The district of Yağlıdere, in Giresun province, is located in a region that exhibits the typical geographical characteristics of the Eastern Black Sea Region. Located east of Giresun city center, the district is located inland from the Black Sea coast. Its geography is characterized by a rather rugged and mountainous terrain. This rugged terrain is characterized by deep valleys and high hills. Details regarding the district's area and precise boundaries are determined by administrative records.
The most important element shaping the district's topography is the Yağlıdere Stream, which gives it its name, and the deep valley it creates. The district center and a significant portion of the settlements are built along this valley or on the slopes leading to it. The terrain is characterized by V-shaped valleys and steep slopes formed by the erosion of the stream. Elevations increase significantly from the valley floor to the mountainous areas. These mountainous areas are also the primary determinants of the region's natural vegetation and hydrological structure. Plateaus also exist in the region's higher elevations, and these plateaus are important for animal husbandry and recreational activities, especially in the summer months.
Hydrographically, the district has a network of tributaries, including the Yağlıdere Stream. Yağlıdere Stream is the region's most important stream, forming the main axis of the district's geography with its water volume and the valley it forms. The stream flow regime is directly related to the region's abundant rainfall, and its flow can increase with snowmelt and precipitation, particularly in the spring.
The natural vegetation of the Yağlıdere district is quite lush and diverse, influenced by the Black Sea climate. As you ascend from lower elevations to higher elevations, the vegetation forms distinct layers. As you move away from the coast and increase in elevation, broadleaf forests (beech, hornbeam, etc.) give way to coniferous forests (spruce, fir, Scots pine, etc.) at higher elevations. These forests provide both ecological balance and an economic resource for the local population. Agricultural areas, particularly hazelnut orchards, are located in the valley floors and on the gentler slopes.
In terms of climate, Yağlıdere exhibits all the characteristics of the typical Eastern Black Sea climate. Its most distinctive characteristic is abundant rainfall throughout the year. Annual precipitation is quite high, mostly in the form of rain, although snowfall also occurs in the higher elevations during the winter months. The weather is generally humid throughout the year. Summers are cool and rainy, while winters are mild and rainy. Its location inland relative to the coast and its high altitude can lead to variations in temperature and snowfall. These climatic conditions have fostered the formation of the region's lush vegetation and shaped agricultural activities, particularly hazelnut and tea cultivation (where applicable).
Population and Demography
According to current population statistics, Yağlıdere district has a population of 14,857 as of 2024. Of this population, 7,522 are male and 7,335 are female; the gender distribution is 50.63% male and 49.37% female. The total population size and gender ratios provide key indicators of both the district's social structure and the dynamics of participation in economic activities.
Over the recent eighteen-year period (2007–2024), the population of Yağlıdere has exhibited significant fluctuations. After reaching a peak of 19,281 in 2008, the relatively high level was maintained until 2011, but the decline that began in 2012 continued until 2015. A short-term rebound was observed in 2016, followed by a decline to 15,189 in 2017. The population rose again to 16,758 in 2018, and fluctuated slightly between 15,577 and 15,793 in the 2019–2020 period. It contracted again in 2021 and 2022, recovering to 15,744 in 2023. These trends, which finally decreased to 14,857 in 2024, reveal the direct impacts of migration movements typical of rural areas, variability of seasonal job opportunities and income fluctuations based on agricultural production on the population.
The slight male predominance in the gender structure is linked to the high participation of the male workforce, particularly in agricultural production activities. In the district, located close to the coast, particularly in the Hazelnut region, the seasonal needs of the workforce, a key determinant of the agricultural cycle, slightly increase the male population ratio. Conversely, the relative stability of the female population ratio demonstrates the multifaceted roles of the local population in both the domestic and rural economies.
Another important factor shaping Yağlıdere's demographic profile is its district status, granted on July 4, 1987. Formerly a sub-district of Espiye, Yağlıdere's status expanded the scope of the population registration system, facilitating infrastructure investments and access to public services. Its location, approximately 15 km from the coast, fosters both climatic conditions and highland traditions, while the district's highland festivals contribute to a balanced population balance between migrants and returnees throughout the year.
Economy
The economic structure of Yağlıdere, a district of Giresun province, is largely based on agricultural activities. The district's geographical location, rugged terrain, and the influence of the Black Sea climate are the primary factors determining the nature of its economic activities. Agriculture is the district's primary source of income and a central part of its economic life.
Almost all of the district's agricultural production is focused on hazelnut production. Hazelnuts are an essential commodity for Yağlıdere's economy and the region's most important source of income. Hazelnut orchards can be found in almost every village in the district, and a large portion of arable land is dedicated to this crop. Hazelnut farming has adapted to the region's climate and soil structure, becoming a primary economic endeavor passed down from generation to generation. The hazelnuts produced are marketed both through local merchants and larger buyers.
In addition to hazelnuts, other agricultural products are grown in the district, primarily to meet family needs. These include corn, potatoes, beans, and, in particular, kale, a staple of the region. Various fruits (pears, apples, plums, etc.) and vegetables are also produced for local consumption. However, the economic value and scale of production of these products are quite limited compared to hazelnuts, and they generally have no commercial purpose.
Animal husbandry is another activity that supports agriculture in the district's economy and is generally carried out as a family business. Cattle, sheep, and poultry farming are also practiced. However, livestock farming is generally focused on meeting families' own needs for meat, milk, and eggs, and its commercial scale is considerably lower than hazelnut farming. While existing meadows, pastures, and forested areas offer potential for the development of animal husbandry, this potential is not being fully utilized. Beekeeping is also among the district's agricultural activities, and the natural vegetation provides a suitable environment for this activity.
The district's rich forest resources provide a foundation for forestry activities. Forest products can be used both to meet fuel needs and, to a limited extent, for income-generating activities. Beyond these, the district's economy is largely dependent on agriculture, particularly hazelnuts. Industrial and commercial activities are underdeveloped. The service sector, however, is concentrated primarily in the district center and consists of small-scale businesses serving basic needs. The district's economic structure is generally based on agricultural production, with a high degree of migration and a high dependence on hazelnut revenues.
Culture-Tourism-Cuisine
The district of Yağlıdere, in Giresun province, boasts natural areas, historical structures, and a local culinary culture. These elements form the district's tourism and cultural profile. The district's geographical structure, vegetation, and water resources offer a number of opportunities for nature tourism activities. The district's historical monuments are included in the cultural heritage inventory.
Among the natural features in Yağlıdere is the Gölyanı Plateau. With its distinctive vegetation and geographical features, the plateau welcomes visitors during the summer months. Its terrain allows for a variety of recreational activities and hiking. Another natural feature in the district is Çağlayan Waterfall. There are recreational areas around the waterfall and its surroundings, making it a popular tourist destination.
The district contains several structures within its cultural and historical heritage. The Hacı Abdullah Khalifa Complex is one of these structures and carries a historical/religious identity. The complex consists of sections such as a mosque and a tomb and is associated with Hacı Abdullah Khalifa. The structure is visited due to its architectural features and religious identity. Another cultural heritage element is the ruins of a church in the Akpınar (Kırkharman) area. This structure exhibits architectural features from past periods and provides information about the district's history. Such structures constitute the district's cultural tourism resources.
Yağlıdere's local cuisine is integral to the district's cultural landscape. While reflecting the general culinary characteristics of the Black Sea Region, the district's cuisine includes dishes made with local produce. These include Pezik Soup, Mendek Soup, Fırın Kurusu (cornbread), Taflan Salted Roast, Keşkek, and Anchovy Pastry. Desserts include Fındıklı Burma (a type of pastry made with hazelnuts) and Samaksa Dessert. These dishes define the district's gastronomic heritage.
In conclusion, Yağlıdere district boasts natural areas such as Gölyanı Plateau and Çağlayan Waterfall; historical/cultural structures such as the Hacı Abdullah Halife Complex and the ruins of Akpınar Church; and a cuisine featuring local dishes such as Pezik Soup and Fındıklı Burma. These elements constitute the district's tourism and cultural identity and are resources that can be utilized in regional promotion and development activities.
