Karabuk Guide

Karabük, a province located in the Black Sea region of Turkey, became a province in 1995 and is widely known for its historical and cultural richness, particularly due to the world-famous town of Safranbolu. The region is famous not only for Safranbolu and Yenice, with their well-preserved historical landmarks, but also for its ancient cities and natural wonders, making it a prime destination for tourism.

Karabük is also an industrial hub in Turkey, as it is home to the country’s first iron and steel factory. Due to its strategic location at the crossroads of many cities and its proximity to raw materials, Karabük became an ideal choice for industrial development.

The name “Karabük” originates from the combination of the words "kara" and "bük," meaning "black" and "bend," respectively, symbolizing "black forest" or "dark bend."

The region has a long history of settlement, dating back to the Bronze Age. Though extensive archaeological excavations have not yet been conducted, findings in the Eskipazar district suggest that the first settlements in the area date back to the Bronze Age. Karabük is first mentioned in ancient records in the Hittite texts, where the region was referred to as "Haluna." It has since been ruled by many civilizations, including the Phrygians, Romans, Byzantines, and Seljuks. Following the Battle of Manzikert, the region came under Turkish control, and later, the Ottomans established their rule, leaving behind numerous historical monuments and artifacts from the Ottoman period.

Today, Karabük is a city with a rich natural environment, featuring lush green forests and historical Ottoman houses in districts such as Safranbolu and Yenice. Surrounded by mountains, the region is a haven for nature lovers, offering forests and highlands that dominate the landscape. Despite its small size, Karabük’s natural beauty and historical significance make it an inviting and absorbing destination for visitors.

The climate of Karabük is characterized by typical Black Sea weather, with mild, wet winters and warm, humid summers. The people of Karabük are known for their warmth and friendliness, making the city even more welcoming to tourists. Walking through the streets, visitors may feel as though they have stepped into the set of an old movie, with the historical homes and charming atmosphere telling stories of the past.

Karabük’s tourism has grown exponentially, thanks to its historical towns such as Safranbolu, Yenice, and Eskipazar, which are rich in cultural heritage. The town of Safranbolu, with its well-preserved Ottoman houses, and ancient cities have attracted not only Turkish tourists but also visitors from around the world. The city's narrow streets, traditional homes, and authentic atmosphere have captivated travelers from many countries, earning Karabük an international reputation.

For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Karabük Hotels page.