Historical Places of Safranbolu:

Safranbolu is a Turkish city recognized by UNESCO for its historical and cultural importance. One of the most important historical places of Safranbolu is Safranbolu Castle, which is a perfect example of structures intertwined with the historical atmosphere. The castle was built during the Byzantine period and has undergone various renovations and restorations since then. Today, visitors can explore the castle's walls and towers, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the must-see historical places in Safranbolu is Cinci Han, a 17th-century inn built by Kazasker Hüseyin Efendi. The inn is located in the middle of the district center and is considered one of the most important buildings of Safranbolu. Visitors can explore the inn's beautiful architecture and learn about its historical significance. In addition, the Turkish bath located in the inn is still used today and offers visitors the opportunity to experience traditional Turkish bath rituals.

District Governors Museum is another historical place worth seeing in Safranbolu. The museum is located in a beautiful two-storey Safranbolu house and offers visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture. The exhibitions include works and objects from various periods, including the Ottoman and Byzantine periods. Visitors can also explore the Urban History Museum and Historic Clock Tower, one of the most photographed sites in the district. The museum offers a fascinating look at the city's past and present, while the clock tower is a fine example of Ottoman architecture.

Touristic Places of Safranbolu:

One of the most important touristic places of Safranbolu is Hıdırlık Hill. This hill is important because it is the place where the first Turks who settled in Safranbolu celebrated Hıdırellez with rain prayers. It offers a panoramic view of the city's mansions, historical treasures such as Safranbolu Clock Tower, Cinci Inn and Turkish bath. There are also various activities suitable for children in the Safranbolu region that families visiting the hill can enjoy.

Bulak Cave is another place that must be visited in Safranbolu. Located within the borders of Bulak Village, approximately 8 km away from Safranbolu centre, this cave is up to 6 km long and is the fourth largest cave in Turkey. Visitors can explore the cave's unique structure and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. In addition, the fact that the cave is located in a village offers visitors the opportunity to experience local life and culture.

İncekaya Aqueduct is a magnificent structure located within the borders of İncekaya village of Safranbolu district. This aqueduct, which is 116 meters long and has six arches, is an important historical monument that has been preserved until today. Visitors can see the beauty of the aqueduct from the balcony on the Tokatlı Canyon hiking trail. The entire five-eyed section on this large arch is made of stone and Khorasan mortar. Exploring this fascinating structure with guided history and nature tours or photography tours is a unique experience that visitors should not miss.

Traditional Houses and Streets in Safranbolu:

Located in the middle of the district center, Cinci Han is one of the most striking buildings in Safranbolu. This historical building was used as a caravanserai until the 20th century, when the historical Silk Road began to lose its effectiveness. Cinci Han has been located in Safranbolu since the early 20th century and is now on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Offering accommodation opportunities, the inn is a perfect example of Ottoman architecture with its wooden structure and traditional design. Visitors can explore the inn's various rooms and courtyards, which provide a glimpse into the history and daily life of travelers during the Ottoman period.

Izzet Pasha Mosque is another historical and touristic place worth seeing in Safranbolu. The mosque was built by Grand Vizier İzzet Mehmet Pasha in 1796. The mosque's elegant architecture, zinc-covered dome and interior decoration make it a must-see for visitors. The mosque is similar in design to the small Nuruosmaniye Mosque in Istanbul, with its intricate details and beautiful decorations. This historic mosque is an excellent example of Ottoman architecture and provides a glimpse into the religious practices of the Ottoman period.

Arasta Bazaar is another historical and touristic place that visitors to Safranbolu should not miss. The bazaar consists of approximately fifty shops and is located in the Old Bazaar section of Safranbolu district. Yemeniciler Arasta, a part of the Safranbolu bazaars, is a bazaar consisting of stone structures from the Ottoman period and is home to Yemeni, a type of shoe made by artisans. Until the end of the 1950s, Yemeni production was an important craft in Safranbolu. Today visitors can explore the shops and purchase traditional handicrafts, souvenirs and other products. With narrow cobblestone streetsSurrounded by the colorful city, it is the perfect place for visitors to experience the unique atmosphere of Safranbolu.

Researched and Written by: Gökhan SUİÇMEZ