100 years on, this small village shop in central Türkiye still serves its community

In the quiet countryside of Ankara’s Cubuk district, tucked inside the neighborhood of Kurucay, a small village bakkal (general store) quietly defies time. 

It’s a place that has been part of village life for generations, holding on to its old character even as everything around it changes.

The store is run by 60-year-old Fikret Tohumcu, who inherited the business from his father. Having spent around 40 years working in this trade, Tohumcu is deeply connected to both the store and its history. 

He not only keeps the business running but also makes a conscious effort to protect its traditional character.

Inside, the store reflects the early decades of the 20th century. Its stone and mud-brick walls, wooden ceiling, and old-fashioned weighing scales immediately draw attention. 

These preserved details create an atmosphere that feels like a step back in time, offering visitors a glimpse into how rural shops once operated in the 1930s and beyond.

He noted that the historic grocery store, which stands as a symbol of resilience against time, attracts not only regular customers who come for their daily needs but also visitors from outside the region who are drawn to its nostalgic atmosphere and unique character.