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The cobblestone streets and well-preserved Ottoman houses of Orta Mahalle in Trabzon’s Akcaabat district are turning the historic neighborhood into one of the Black Sea region’s most visited cultural tourism destinations.
Orta Mahalle is recognized as an important example of traditional Turkish architecture, featuring houses built primarily with stone and wood. In 1988, a significant portion of the neighborhood was designated as an Urban Conservation Area, ensuring the protection of its historical character.
Having hosted many civilizations throughout history, the neighborhood reflects a rich cultural heritage. Its cobblestone streets, narrow squares, steep slopes and long-standing community life contribute to its distinctive atmosphere.
With the support of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Akcaabat Municipality has introduced cafes, restaurants and boutique hotels to the area. The neighborhood includes 61 registered historical structures, such as mansions, museums, fountains, schools and mosques.
Akcaabat Mayor Osman Nuri Ekim said Orta Mahalle plays an important role in the city’s tourism sector. He noted that approximately 180,000 visitors were recorded in 2024, increasing to around 200,000 in 2025.
According to Ekim, tourists mainly arrive from the Middle East, Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran, Georgia and several European countries, including Germany and the Netherlands.
Mayor Ekim stated that guided tours provide visitors with historical information, while traditional local dishes are served in restored historic mansions. He added that the first phase of restoration work has been completed and further projects will continue without compromising the neighborhood’s cultural identity.
Looking ahead, Ekim said the municipality aims to increase visitor numbers to 300,000–400,000 by 2026 and extend tourism activity throughout the entire year, which is expected to benefit both visitors and local businesses.
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