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Ordu, Turkiye
Discover Ordu: A Black Sea Treasure of History, Nature, and Hazelnuts
Located on the stunning Black Sea coast of Türkiye, Ordu — historically known as Kotyora — is a captivating port city blending natural beauty, ancient heritage, and vibrant local culture. With a population of over 235,000, the modern-day city of Altınorduforms the heart of this province, once a thriving Greek colony and now a charming, green getaway famous for its hazelnuts, highland plateaus, and warm hospitality.
A Glimpse into Ordu’s Rich History
The ancient name Kotyora traces back to the indigenous Colchianpeople and their pottery traditions. Later a Miletian colony mentioned by Xenophon in Anabasis, the city was part of Pontus, Rome, Byzantium, the Seljuk Empire, and finally the Ottomans. Renamed “Ordu” (meaning “army camp”) in the 19th century, the city grew into a multiethnic center with a significant Greek and Armenian population until the early 20th century.
Remarkable archaeological finds — including a Cybele statue, Byzantine monastery ruins, and elaborate tombs — continue to uncover Ordu’s deep historical layers. The recent discovery of 1,600-year-old graves and Byzantine religious sites highlight its legacy as a sacred and prosperous settlement.
Top Places to Visit in Ordu
Boztepe Hill & Cable Car: Soar above the city on a scenic aerial tramway to Boztepe (550 m), offering panoramic views of Ordu and the Black Sea.
Cape Jason (Yason Burnu): A mythological and historical cape dedicated to Jason of the Argonauts, this tranquil headland features a historic lighthouse and church ruins.
Paşaoğlu Mansion and Ethnographic Museum: An elegant 19th-century house showcasing local culture, clothing, and traditions.
Taşbaşı Cultural Center: Housed in a restored Orthodox church, this venue hosts concerts and events, symbolizing Ordu’s multicultural past.
Historic Mosques: Don’t miss the Atik İbrahim Paşa Mosque (1770), Eski Pazar Mosque, and Yalı (Aziziye) Mosque, each reflecting unique Ottoman architecture.
Old Town (Altınordu): Wander narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional wooden houses, boutique cafes, and artisan shops.
Ordu’s Natural Beauty
Ordu is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Enjoy forested highlands like Perşembe Plateau, Çambaşı Yaylası, and Ulugöl Lake, ideal for hiking, camping, and photography. The Melet River is a favorite for rafting, while the coastline offers tranquil beaches and fishing villages.
Local Cuisine: A Taste of the Black Sea
Ordu’s cuisine celebrates the sea, mountains, and the hazelnut — its signature crop. Sample:
Mısır Ekmeği (cornbread)
Kara Lahana Çorbası (black cabbage soup)
Hamsi Tava (fried anchovies)
Etli Pazı Sarması (stuffed chard leaves)
Burnt ice cream (Yanık Dondurma) — plain or caramel
Hazelnut Baklava and chocolate-covered hazelnuts from the iconic Sağra Factory Shop
Festivals and Culture
Ordu offers a lively calendar of events that celebrate both heritage and nature:
Boztepe Festival – Featuring traditional music and local products.
Ordu Hazelnut Festival (Fındık Festivali) – Every August, honoring the region’s key export.
International Folk Dance Festival – Bringing global dance troupes to Ordu’s stages.
Çambaşı Snow Festival – Held in the highlands during winter, with sledding, local foods, and music.
How to Get There
By Air: Ordu-Giresun Airport (OGU) is the world’s first airport built on an artificial island and offers domestic and some international flights. By Bus: Regular coach lines connect Ordu to major Turkish cities like İstanbul (approx. 12 hours) and Ankara (approx. 8 hours). By Car: Easily reachable via the Black Sea Coastal Highway (D010). By Sea: Occasionally accessible via private or tourism cruises along the Black Sea coast.
Best Time to Visit
May to October is ideal for sightseeing, coastal activities, and festivals. Spring and early summer bring green landscapes and cool weather, while autumn offers hazelnut harvest views and crisp highland air. Winters are mild in the city, but snow-covered yaylas attract adventure lovers.
Summary
Ordu is a unique blend of ancient stories, forested heights, Black Sea charm, and hazelnut-scented air. Whether you’re strolling its coastal promenades, hiking misty plateaus, or discovering ancient ruins, Ordu promises a soulful journey in the heart of Türkiye’s northern coast.
Ordu, Turkiye
Discover Ordu: A Black Sea Treasure of History, Nature, and Hazelnuts
Located on the stunning Black Sea coast of Türkiye, Ordu — historically known as Kotyora — is a captivating port city blending natural beauty, ancient heritage, and vibrant local culture. With a population of over 235,000, the modern-day city of Altınordu forms the heart of this province, once a thriving Greek colony and now a charming, green getaway famous for its hazelnuts, highland plateaus, and warm hospitality.
A Glimpse into Ordu’s Rich History
The ancient name Kotyora traces back to the indigenous Colchian people and their pottery traditions. Later a Miletian colony mentioned by Xenophon in Anabasis, the city was part of Pontus, Rome, Byzantium, the Seljuk Empire, and finally the Ottomans. Renamed “Ordu” (meaning “army camp”) in the 19th century, the city grew into a multiethnic center with a significant Greek and Armenian population until the early 20th century.
Remarkable archaeological finds — including a Cybele statue, Byzantine monastery ruins, and elaborate tombs — continue to uncover Ordu’s deep historical layers. The recent discovery of 1,600-year-old graves and Byzantine religious sites highlight its legacy as a sacred and prosperous settlement.
Top Places to Visit in Ordu
Boztepe Hill & Cable Car: Soar above the city on a scenic aerial tramway to Boztepe (550 m), offering panoramic views of Ordu and the Black Sea.
Cape Jason (Yason Burnu): A mythological and historical cape dedicated to Jason of the Argonauts, this tranquil headland features a historic lighthouse and church ruins.
Paşaoğlu Mansion and Ethnographic Museum: An elegant 19th-century house showcasing local culture, clothing, and traditions.
Taşbaşı Cultural Center: Housed in a restored Orthodox church, this venue hosts concerts and events, symbolizing Ordu’s multicultural past.
Historic Mosques: Don’t miss the Atik İbrahim Paşa Mosque (1770), Eski Pazar Mosque, and Yalı (Aziziye) Mosque, each reflecting unique Ottoman architecture.
Old Town (Altınordu): Wander narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional wooden houses, boutique cafes, and artisan shops.
Ordu’s Natural Beauty
Ordu is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Enjoy forested highlands like Perşembe Plateau, Çambaşı Yaylası, and Ulugöl Lake, ideal for hiking, camping, and photography. The Melet River is a favorite for rafting, while the coastline offers tranquil beaches and fishing villages.
Local Cuisine: A Taste of the Black Sea
Ordu’s cuisine celebrates the sea, mountains, and the hazelnut — its signature crop. Sample:
Mısır Ekmeği (cornbread)
Kara Lahana Çorbası (black cabbage soup)
Hamsi Tava (fried anchovies)
Etli Pazı Sarması (stuffed chard leaves)
Burnt ice cream (Yanık Dondurma) — plain or caramel
Hazelnut Baklava and chocolate-covered hazelnuts from the iconic Sağra Factory Shop
Festivals and Culture
Ordu offers a lively calendar of events that celebrate both heritage and nature:
Boztepe Festival – Featuring traditional music and local products.
Ordu Hazelnut Festival (Fındık Festivali) – Every August, honoring the region’s key export.
International Folk Dance Festival – Bringing global dance troupes to Ordu’s stages.
Çambaşı Snow Festival – Held in the highlands during winter, with sledding, local foods, and music.
How to Get There
By Air: Ordu-Giresun Airport (OGU) is the world’s first airport built on an artificial island and offers domestic and some international flights.
By Bus: Regular coach lines connect Ordu to major Turkish cities like İstanbul (approx. 12 hours) and Ankara (approx. 8 hours).
By Car: Easily reachable via the Black Sea Coastal Highway (D010).
By Sea: Occasionally accessible via private or tourism cruises along the Black Sea coast.
Best Time to Visit
May to October is ideal for sightseeing, coastal activities, and festivals. Spring and early summer bring green landscapes and cool weather, while autumn offers hazelnut harvest views and crisp highland air. Winters are mild in the city, but snow-covered yaylas attract adventure lovers.
Summary
Ordu is a unique blend of ancient stories, forested heights, Black Sea charm, and hazelnut-scented air. Whether you’re strolling its coastal promenades, hiking misty plateaus, or discovering ancient ruins, Ordu promises a soulful journey in the heart of Türkiye’s northern coast.