Safranbolu

A dreamy town of historical significance

Safranbolu is located in the Black Sea Region about 200 kilometres south of Ankara and 100 kilometres from the Black Sea. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Mentioned in Homer’s Iliad, Safranbolu, with a history dating back to ancient times, has been one of the major cities of many civilizations.

Former names include Zalifre, the Greek name Theodoroupolis and later Saframpolis and then Safronbolu. Safranbolu was a trading place and centre for saffron. Still today saffron is grown nearby.

What to See

The old heritage Ottoman houses, cobble-stoned alleyways, mosques hammams and karavansarays means the town is a joy to wander through.

Bazaars worth visiting include Yemeniciler Bazaar, Bakircilar Bazaar, Semerciler and Demirciler Bazaar. These are among the other historical places worth the visit.

There is a great view of the city from Hildirli Hill to the town below and excursions can be made to Mencilis Bulak Cave and Tokatli Canyon for hiking and swimming.

The Safranbolu City History Museum also known as Kaymakamlar Museum is worthy of a visit for its rich local history. As is an excursion to Mencilis Bulak Cave and Tokatlı Canyon. Cinci Han and Bath are popular tourist attractions with a history of over 400 years. There will be the chance to take a hamam after your touring

What to Eat

Representative of the world famous Turkish cuisine, Safranbolu offers also a variety of local specialties such as Safranbolu bükme, safranli zerde tatlisi (zerde pdding with safron), Safranbolu baklava and Turkish delight.

Kuyu Kebabi is delicious lamb cooked in a well. The well is sealed which means the lamb cooks in it’s own juices.

Safranbolu can be included in a tour to Cappadocia or included in a Black Sea Adventure.

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