Cankiri: The City of Salt

Every city is famous for something. Some cities are well-known for their beaches, and some are for their ancient history. Well… Cankiri is famous for its rock salt reserves, it is the biggest rock salt producer in Turkey.

Cankiri has hosted many civilizations throughout its history, from Paphlagonians, Kingdom of Pontus, and Galatians to Romans, Byzantines, and Turks. Therefore the city bears the traces of the cultures and histories of all these civilizations. It has a story to tell in every corner.

One of the main landmarks of the city is, of course, the glorious Mount Ilgaz which is the mighty and reliable protector of the city. It overlooks the city with grace and displays amazing views.

For an unforgettable adventure, Cankiri is welcoming you with open arms.

Cankiri is located in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey, and it’s easily accessible from several major cities. Here are some options:

By Air: The closest airport to Cankiri is in Ankara, the Esenboga International Airport (ESB). It is about 140 km (around 87 miles) away from Cankiri and it receives both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or take a bus to reach Cankiri.

By Road: If you’re comfortable with driving, you can rent a car and drive to Cankiri. The city is well-connected by roads to other major cities in Turkey. From Ankara, it takes approximately 2-3 hours to reach Cankiri by car, depending on traffic.

By Bus: There are regular intercity buses to Cankiri from many major cities in Turkey, including Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. The bus journey from Ankara takes around 2-3 hours, while from Istanbul it can take around 6-7 hours.

By Train: While there is no direct train route to Cankiri, you can take a train to Ankara and then take a bus or drive to Cankiri.

When packing for a trip to Cankiri, your packing list will vary depending on the time of year you plan to visit and the activities you plan to do. Here are some general suggestions:

Clothing: If you’re visiting in the summer, pack lightweight clothing, but also bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. If you’re visiting in winter, bring warm clothing, including a coat, gloves, and a hat, as it can get quite cold.

Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city and historical sites. If you plan on hiking in the Ilgaz Mountain range, consider bringing appropriate hiking boots.

Accessories: Don’t forget sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. If you’re visiting in the winter, you might also want to bring a good quality lip balm and moisturizer, as the cold weather can be harsh on your skin.

Medication: Bring any prescription medication you may need, as well as a basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Electronics: Don’t forget your phone, camera, and any other electronics you might need. Also, bring the appropriate adapters for Turkish outlets, which use the Type F plug (European two-pin plug).

Miscellaneous: Consider packing a reusable water bottle, snacks, and travel-sized toiletries. If you plan to visit the Cankiri Salt Cave, you might want to bring a light jacket or sweater, as it can be cooler inside the cave.

Documents: Always carry your passport or ID, driver’s license (if you plan on driving), and any other necessary travel documents.

Cankiri offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to more comfortable hotels. Some of the options to consider include:

Grand Cankiri Hotel: This is a comfortable hotel located in the city center, offering modern rooms with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, minibars, and flat-screen TVs.

Cankiri Park Hotel: Another centrally located hotel, it provides clean and comfortable rooms, and it’s close to local attractions and restaurants.

Hotel Ilgaz: Located a bit further from the city center, this hotel offers the charm of a quiet environment along with comfort and convenience.

Soner Bey Otel: A budget-friendly option, this hotel offers basic amenities in a central location.

Mimosa Thermal Otel: If you’re willing to stay outside of Cankiri, this thermal hotel in Orta, a neighboring town, could provide a unique experience. It offers spa and wellness facilities, including a thermal pool.

Cankiri, located in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey, experiences a continental climate, characterized by significant differences in temperature between the seasons, as well as between day and night.

Summer (June – August): Summers in Cankiri are warm to hot, with average high temperatures ranging from around 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is generally less frequent during these months.

Autumn (September – November): Autumn sees a drop in temperatures and an increase in rainfall. The average high temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F) over these months.

Winter (December – February): Winters in Cankiri are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, and average high temperatures typically range from -5°C (23°F) to 5°C (41°F).

Spring (March-May): Spring is a transitional season with increasing temperatures and rainfall. The average high temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F).

If you’re interested in exploring the city and its historical sites comfortably, then spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are often considered the best times to visit. The temperatures during these periods are typically mild, and the scenery can be quite beautiful, especially with spring flowers or autumn leaves.

The summer (July to August) can also be a good time to visit, though it can be quite hot. But if you don’t mind the heat, you’ll likely find it to be a vibrant time with longer daylight hours for exploring.

If you’re interested in winter activities, like skiing in the Ilgaz Mountain range, then the winter months (December to February) would be the best time to go. Just be prepared for cold temperatures and check the availability of winter activities beforehand.

Cankiri is a city with a rich and storied history dating back to ancient times. Located in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey, it was known as Gangra in ancient times and was the capital of the Paphlagonian Kingdom.

Ancient History: The earliest known settlements in the region date back to the Hittite period (around 2000-1700 BC). The city was known as Gangra, and it was an important center of the Paphlagonian culture. It was later ruled by the Persians until it fell to Alexander the Great.

Roman and Byzantine Periods: After the death of Alexander the Great, the region came under the rule of the Roman Empire. During this time, the city continued to thrive and was even visited by the Roman Emperor Julian. It later became part of the Byzantine Empire with the split of Rome.

Seljuk and Ottoman Eras: The Seljuks took control of the city in the 11th century, and it later came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire in the late 14th century. The city grew in importance during the Ottoman period due to its location on a major trade route.

Republic Era: With the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Cankiri has continued to develop as a significant city in the Central Anatolia region. It retains much of its historical charm, with several significant historical sites that date back to different periods of its long history.

Cankiri, with its rich history and unique geographical characteristics, boasts several notable features and accomplishments.

Historical Significance: As one of the ancient cities of the world, Cankiri (known as Gangra in ancient times) served as the capital of the Paphlagonian Kingdom, marking its significance in ancient history.

Salt Mine: Cankiri is home to one of the oldest salt mines in the world. The Cankiri Salt Mine has been in operation for over 5000 years. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction and continues to produce a significant amount of Turkey’s salt.

Architectural Marvels: The city has some remarkable historical structures. The Cankiri Castle, for instance, showcases the city’s ancient military architecture. The historic Civitcioglu Madrasa is another noteworthy building.

Natural Beauty: The Ilgaz Mountain range, partly located within Cankiri’s borders, is one of the country’s popular spots for nature and winter sports. Its national park is renowned for its biodiversity.

Cuisine: Cankiri is known for its local salt, which is a staple in its culinary tradition. The region’s unique dishes reflect the richness of Turkish cuisine.

Traditional Crafts: The city is celebrated for its traditional crafts, particularly in areas like hand-woven textiles and copper work.

Cankiri, steeped in history, offers various sites of historical interest. Here are some of the notable ones:

Cankiri Castle: Also known as Cankiri Kalesi in Turkish, this ancient castle situated on a hill provides a panoramic view of the city. It’s believed to date back to the Byzantine period and has seen numerous restorations throughout the centuries.

Civitcioglu Madrasa: This historic madrasa, a traditional Islamic school, dates back to the 13th century during the Seljuk Empire. It’s an excellent example of Seljuk architecture and is currently used as a cultural and social center.

Tatlipinar Bath: An Ottoman-era Turkish bath, it’s a good place to get a sense of the traditional bathing culture.

Ataturk House: This museum is dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey. It showcases various items and documents related to his life and the history of modern Turkey.

Cankiri Museum: The museum hosts a variety of archaeological and ethnographic exhibits, showcasing artifacts from different periods of the region’s history.

Salt Cave: While not a historical site in the traditional sense, the Cankiri Salt Cave is one of the oldest salt mines in the world, with operations dating back over 5000 years.

Historical Mosques: Cankiri is home to several historical mosques, such as the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) and Nasuh Pasa Mosque, each with its own unique architectural features.

Historical Cankiri Houses: The city has a number of traditional Ottoman houses which have been preserved and provide a glimpse into the region’s architectural heritage.

A couple of notable figures with connections to Cankiri include:

Izzet Pasha: Izzet Pasha was a prominent Ottoman statesman during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was born in Cankiri and held several important posts in the Ottoman government, including Grand Vizier (the highest-ranking minister).

Osman Bolukbasi: A significant figure in Turkish politics, Osman Bolukbasi was the leader of the Nation Party (Millet Partisi) and the Democratic Party (Demokrat Parti). He was born in Cankiri and made substantial contributions to Turkish political life in the 20th century.

1. Visit Cankiri Castle: This ancient castle offers a panoramic view of the city and is a significant historical site.
2. Explore the Cankiri Museum: This museum hosts a variety of archaeological and ethnographic exhibits showcasing artifacts from different periods of the region’s history.
3. Tour the Salt Cave: Considered one of the oldest salt mines in the world, this site offers an unusual and educational experience.
4. Stroll around the Historic City Center: The city center is home to numerous traditional Ottoman houses and buildings, giving you a glimpse into the region’s architectural heritage.
5. Visit the Civitcioglu Madrasa: This historic madrasa offers a peek into the region’s educational history during the Seljuk period.
6. Experience the Tatlipinar Bath: An Ottoman-era Turkish bath, where you can experience traditional bathing culture.
7. Pray at Nasuh Pasha Mosque: This mosque, named after its founder, is a great example of Ottoman architecture.
8. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant: Try traditional Turkish and Cankiri-specific dishes, making sure to sample the region’s unique cuisine.
9. Shop at the local markets: Buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional Turkish items in the local bazaars.
10. Visit Ataturk House: This museum is dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, and provides insights into his life and the history of modern Turkey.
11. Go hiking in Ilgaz National Park: This national park offers stunning natural beauty and is an excellent location for hiking, especially during spring and autumn.
12. Go Skiing at Ilgaz Mountain: If you’re visiting during winter, this area is popular for winter sports, especially skiing.
13. Try the local craft workshops: Cankiri is celebrated for its traditional crafts, particularly in areas like hand-woven textiles and copper work.
14. Check out the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami): This large and historic mosque is a central place of worship and a key landmark in the city.
15. Visit the Historic Cankiri Houses: These are well-preserved traditional Ottoman houses that give a glimpse into the architectural heritage of the area.

Here are some of the top spots you might consider:

Cankiri Castle: This ancient fortress offers an opportunity to delve into the history of the region, as well as provide a panoramic view of the city.

Cankiri Museum: This museum houses a collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts that showcase the history and culture of the region.

Salt Cave: One of the oldest salt mines in the world, this site not only serves as a productive salt mine but also as a fascinating tourist attraction.

Civitcioglu Madrasa: A historical Islamic school dating back to the Seljuk Empire, the Madrasa is a remarkable example of traditional architecture.

Ataturk House: This museum is dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, and contains numerous items and documents related to his life and the early years of the Turkish Republic.

Tatlipinar Bath: An Ottoman-era Turkish bath that offers a unique insight into the traditional bathing culture of the region.

Historic City Center: The city center, with its traditional Ottoman houses and buildings, is an architectural delight.

Historical Mosques: Cankiri is home to several beautiful mosques such as the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) and Nasuh Pasa Mosque.

Ilgaz Mountain National Park: Located partially within Cankiri province, the park is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering beautiful landscapes, hiking opportunities, and winter sports.

Here are some types of tours you might consider looking for when planning your visit to Cankiri:

Historical and Cultural Tours: These could include guided visits to significant historical sites such as Cankiri Castle, Civitcioglu Madrasa, Ataturk House, and the various historical mosques in the city.

Salt Mine Tours: Given that the Cankiri Salt Mine is one of the oldest in the world, a guided tour of this fascinating site could provide you with a deeper understanding of its historical and economic significance.

City Tours: A tour of the city center, exploring the traditional Ottoman houses and local bazaars, can give you a good sense of Cankiri’s architectural heritage and local culture.

Culinary Tours: Turkey is known for its rich cuisine, and a culinary tour could help you explore the local dishes of Cankiri.

Nature Tours: A guided tour of the Ilgaz Mountain National Park or other local natural sites could be an excellent choice for nature lovers.

Craft Workshops: If available, joining a workshop focused on Cankiri’s traditional crafts like hand-woven textiles or copper work could be an immersive cultural experience.

Cankiri, with its scenic landscapes and historical sites, can offer various exciting activities even in winter. Here are some places and activities you might consider:

Ilgaz Mountain Range: This is a popular spot for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The Ilgaz Mountain National Park is especially beautiful covered in snow.

Cankiri Salt Cave: One of the oldest salt mines in the world, this site provides a unique and educational experience. Being underground, it can be visited at any time of the year, irrespective of the weather conditions.

Historical Sites: Although it might be cold, winter can provide a different perspective on historical sites such as the Cankiri Castle and the Civitcioglu Madrasa. Just make sure to dress warmly.

Cankiri Museum: A visit to the museum can be a great indoor activity. The museum houses archaeological and ethnographic exhibits from the region.

Local Cafes and Restaurants: Trying traditional Turkish winter foods and drinks in the local cafes and restaurants is a must. These might include salep (a warm milky beverage), lentil soup, or Turkish tea.

Traditional Turkish Bath (Hamam): A visit to an Ottoman-era Turkish bath, like the Tatlıpınar Bath, can be a warm and relaxing experience during the cold winter days.

Ataturk House: This house museum dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, offers an indoor historical experience that can be comfortably visited during winter.

Cankiri can be a delight to visit in the summer, offering a range of activities and sites. Here are some suggestions for your summer visit:

Ilgaz Mountain National Park: With beautiful landscapes and a range of flora and fauna, this park is perfect for hiking, picnics, and enjoying the great outdoors during the summer months.

Cankiri Castle: This historic castle offers a stunning view of the city below. The climb to the castle could be more comfortable in the summer.

Cankiri Museum: The museum is a cool escape from the summer heat, offering a look at the region’s rich history through its archaeological and ethnographic exhibits.

Cankiri Salt Cave: This salt mine is cool inside, providing a break from the summer heat. It’s a unique site with a rich history dating back thousands of years.

Historic City Center: Take a leisurely stroll through the city center, admiring the traditional Ottoman houses and buildings. There are also numerous cafes where you can try local Turkish cuisine.

Civitcioglu Madrasa: This historic Islamic school is a significant site to visit, showcasing traditional architecture and the region’s educational history.

Local Markets: Summer can be a great time to visit local markets or bazaars, which often offer fresh local produce, spices, and traditional Turkish items.

Historical Mosques: Visit the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) or Nasuh Pasa Mosque to appreciate the architectural beauty and cultural significance of these religious sites.

Ataturk House: This museum dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk offers a deep insight into the life of modern Turkey’s founder.

Cankiri, a province in Turkey, has a rich culinary tradition with a variety of traditional dishes. Some of the traditional foods of Cankiri include:

Cankiri Kesme Corbasi: This is a hearty soup made with diced lamb or beef, lentils, bulgur, and various vegetables. It is often flavored with spices like cumin and served hot.

Cankiri Mantisi: Similar to Turkish manti, Cankiri mantısı is a type of dumpling filled with seasoned ground meat. It is typically served with yogurt and topped with melted butter and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Cankiri Kesme Nohut: Kesme nohut is a popular dish made with chickpeas, lamb or beef, onions, and various spices. The meat and chickpeas are slow-cooked together until tender and served over rice or bulgur pilaf.

Cankiri Kelle Paca: This is a traditional Turkish soup made with boiled sheep’s head and feet. It is a rich and flavorful soup that is often enjoyed as a comforting winter dish.

Cankiri Eksili Pilav: Eksili pilav is a sour rice dish made with rice, chicken or beef, onions, and a tangy broth made from lemon juice or vinegar. It is a popular and refreshing dish, especially during the hot summer months.

Cankiri Kabak Tatlisi: Kabak tatlısı is a traditional dessert made from pumpkin. The pumpkin is cooked with sugar and spices until tender and caramelized. It is served with a dollop of cream or ice cream on top.

While I don’t have specific information about the best restaurants in Cankiri, here are a few popular dining establishments that you can consider:

Cankiri Sofrasi: Located in the city center, this restaurant offers a range of traditional Turkish dishes, including kebabs, mezes, and soups.

Roka Restoran: Known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, Roka Restoran serves a variety of Turkish and international dishes, with a focus on fresh ingredients and flavors.

Omer Baba Lokantasi: This local eatery is known for its homestyle cooking and traditional Turkish cuisine. They offer a selection of kebabs, grilled meats, and vegetarian dishes.

Incesu Yoresel Lezzetler: This restaurant specializes in regional Cankiri cuisine, serving dishes made with local ingredients and flavors. They have a variety of meat and vegetable-based dishes, as well as homemade desserts.

Cankiri Pide Evi: If you’re looking for a taste of Turkish pide (Turkish-style pizza), Cankiri Pide Evi is a popular choice. They offer a variety of pide toppings and flavors, including vegetarian options.

Here are a few popular gift ideas from Cankiri:

Handmade Carpets and Rugs: Turkey is known for its exquisite carpets and rugs, and Cankiri is no exception. You can find a variety of handwoven carpets and rugs in different sizes, patterns, and colors, which make for a unique and special gift.

Kilim and Textiles: Kilims are flat-woven rugs that are highly regarded in Turkish culture. They are often used as decorative pieces or wall hangings. You can also find textiles such as embroidered tablecloths, pillowcases, and towels that showcase the traditional craftsmanship of the region.

Ceramics and Pottery: Turkey has a rich history of ceramic and pottery production, and Cankiri is no different. Hand-painted ceramic plates, bowls, and tiles with intricate designs and patterns can make for beautiful gifts.

Traditional Turkish Delights: Turkish delights, known as “lokum,” are popular sweet treats that come in various flavors and textures. You can find a wide selection of lokum in Cankiri, packaged beautifully and ready to be gifted.

Handmade Jewelry: Turkey is renowned for its unique and intricate jewelry designs. You can find handmade silver or gold jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, featuring traditional Turkish motifs and styles.