Giresun: Unveiling the Hidden Gem of Turkey’s Black Sea Coast

What Do We Know About Giresun?

Giresun, city and seaport, is situated in northeastern Turkey.

It lies along the Black Sea around 110 miles (175 km) west of Trabzon.

The more established parts of the city lie on a peninsula delegated by the remains of Byzantine fortress. It shelters a small harbor which is a trading point for the country. Close by is Giresun Island, known as Ares in the ancient times. Giresun was referred to the ancient Greeks as Choerades or Pharnacia and to the Romans as Kerasous or Cerasus.

Nestled along the northeastern coast of Turkey, Giresun is a city that remains generally untouched by the bustling tourists that rush to more famous Turkish locations. This tranquil coastal city offers a one of a kind mix of nature’s charm, rich history, and cultural heritage, making it an ideal spot for those hoping to explore a hidden, yet invaluable treasure on the Black Sea coast.

The History of Giresun

Giresun fell under the control of Pontos in 183 B.C. The city was refounded by Pontus King Phamakes in the current site of the Castle and its vicinities. The name of the city was changed as Pharnakia. The city fell under Roman Empire domination in 63 B.C. and was attached to Trebizon Roman Empire in 1204.

The name for the cherry is accepted to have been gotten from Cerasus (Latin cerasum, French cerise). Cherries have been replaced by hazelnuts as Giresun’s main product. Various other products like walnuts, hides, and timber are known to be exported from the Giresun seaport. What is amazing about this harbor is that this artificially created port is one of the biggest trading points of Turkey.

One of the most striking historical landmarks in Giresun is the Giresun Castle. Roosted on a hill, this old fortress offers all-encompassing sites of the city and the Black Sea. The Castle, which traces all the way back to the Roman period, has endured testing times and offers guests a brief look into the locale’s celebrated past. Strolling through the palace grounds, one can nearly feel the reverberations of old battles and the splendour of past empires.

Nature and Recreational Opportunities

Giresun is known for natural beauty and landscapes. There are lush forests surrounding the city with rolling hills, and mesmerizing sea shores, making it a heaven for those who admire nature and prefer outdoor recreation. One of the must-visit natural attractions is the Giresun Island, the only one in the Turkish Black Sea. This little, uninhabited island is a safe house for bird watchers and offers a peaceful retreat for those hoping to get away from the buzzing about of city life.

The Giresun Highlands, or Yaylalar, are dotted with beautiful towns, verdant meadows, and clear streams, ideal for climbing, traveling, and setting up camp. For ocean side darlings, Giresun offers delightful sea shores like Aksu Beach side, known for its brilliant sands and clear waters. Aksu Beach side additionally has the yearly Aksu Festival, including traditional music, dance, and food.

Giresun Heritage and Traditions

Giresun proudly continues to follow its cultural heritage. The city has rich agriculture which is reflected in its produce and cuisines. Hazelnuts are one of these agricultural produce which are included in numerous local dishes. Giresun is, as a matter of fact, one of the world’s biggest producers of hazelnuts.

The city’s culinary scene additionally incorporates fresh seafood, because of its waterfront area. Dishes like hamsi (anchovies), grilled fish, and stews are staples in Giresun’s cuisine. One of the must-try dishes is “Giresun pidesi,” a sort of flatbread finished off with cheese, minced meat, or vegetables, like the more commonly known Turkish pide.

Giresun additionally has a few cultural festivals that are celebrated annually. The Worldwide Giresun Aksu Festival, held in May, has great significance since it welcomes the season of spring with illustrious festivities. The cultural and traditional values that Giresun holds has great potential for tourism industry.