Artvin

Artvin
Name	Artvin
Settlement type	City
Coordinates	41, 10, 55, N...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Turkey
Subdivision type1	Region
Subdivision name1	Black Sea Region
Subdivision type2	Province
Subdivision name2	Artvin Province
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	Demirhan Elçin (CHP)
Area total km2	1086
Elevation m	345
Population total	26982
Population as of	2022
Postal code type	Postal code
Postal code	08xxx
Area code	(+90) 466
Blank name	Licence plate
Blank info	08

Artvin is a city in northeastern Turkey, serving as the capital of Artvin Province. It is situated in the scenic Çoruh River valley, near the border with Georgia, within the rugged landscapes of the Eastern Black Sea Region. The city is known for its rich history, diverse ethnic heritage, and stunning natural environment, including the nearby Kaçkar Mountains and Karçal Mountains.

History

The area around Artvin has been inhabited since antiquity, with early influences from the Kingdom of Colchis and the Kingdom of Iberia. It later became part of various medieval Georgian polities, including the Kingdom of Georgia and the Principality of Samtskhe. Following the Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878), the region was ceded to the Russian Empire under the Treaty of Berlin (1878), becoming part of the Batum Oblast. After the Russian Revolution, it was briefly part of the Democratic Republic of Georgia before being secured for Turkey following the Turkish–Armenian War and the Treaty of Kars in 1921. The modern province was formed in 1924.

Geography

Artvin is characterized by its dramatic topography within the Black Sea Region, nestled in the deep valley of the Çoruh River. The city is surrounded by the high peaks of the Kaçkar Mountains and the Karçal Mountains, which are part of the Pontic Mountains. This rugged terrain contributes to a humid subtropical climate with significant precipitation. Notable natural landmarks include the Çoruh itself, the nearby Şavşat and Borçka districts, and the protected areas of the Kaçkar Mountains National Park. The province shares a border with Adjara in Georgia.

Demographics

The population of Artvin reflects a diverse ethnic history, with significant historical communities of Laz, Georgian, and Hemshin peoples. Following the population exchanges and treaties of the early 20th century, the demographic composition shifted. Today, the city and province are predominantly Turkish-speaking, though cultural and linguistic traces of the Laz language and the Georgian language persist in some villages. Religious affiliation is overwhelmingly Sunni Islam, primarily following the Hanafi school.

Economy

The local economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, with tea plantations around Hopa and Borçka being a major commercial crop. Other significant agricultural products include hazelnuts, fruits, and beekeeping. Forestry is an important industry due to the extensive woodlands of the Pontic Mountains. In recent decades, hydroelectric power generation has become a cornerstone of the economy, with major dams like the Deriner Dam and the Borçka Dam on the Çoruh River. Tourism, particularly eco-tourism, trekking in the Kaçkar Mountains, and cultural festivals, is a growing sector.

Culture

Artvin's culture is a synthesis of Turkish, Laz, and Georgian influences. Traditional folk dances, such as the horon, and polyphonic folk music are integral to local festivities. The city hosts the annual Kafkasör Festival, which features bull wrestling, music, and dance. Local cuisine includes dishes like mıhlama (a cornmeal and cheese dish), kuymak, and various cornbreads. Historical architecture includes the ruins of medieval Georgian churches and fortifications, such as those near Şavşat.

Notable people

Notable individuals from Artvin include the poet and folklorist Yaşar Kemal (though born in neighboring Osmaniye, his family roots are in the region), the classical kemençe virtuoso and composer Kâzım Koyuncu, and the politician and former Minister of Culture Namık Kemal Zeybek. The region has also produced several prominent figures in Turkish arts, academia, and public life.

Category:Artvin Province Category:Populated places in Artvin Province Category:Black Sea Region