Safranbolu

About

Between the 13th and early 20th centuries, Safranbolu flourished as a key caravan station on the East–West trade route, and major saffron producer (its name is literally 'saffron city'). At its height in the 17th century, Safranbolu was influencing architecture and urban development throughout the Ottoman Empire. While trade has since dried up, its reputation as an influential Ottoman settlement hasn’t. Visitors flock to immerse themselves in the well-preserved Old Town, which has over 1000 registered historical monuments. Exploring the charming Old Town, you’ll find tombs, Turkish baths, a historical clock tower, elegant bridges, and hundreds of traditional mansions and houses. Standout monuments include the Old Mosque, Old Bath, and Süleyman Pasha Medrese, which were all built in 1322. Step into a restaurant or cafe and you’ll find costumed staff and traditional dishes keeping Ottoman heritage alive.