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The Safranbolu district of Karabuk province, listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, hosted 104,258 domestic and foreign overnight visitors in the first half of the year.
Safranbolu Tourism Operators Association Chairperson Mutlu Cidem told reporters that the district's historic mansions, caravanserais, bathhouses and distinctive architecture make it a focal point for domestic and foreign tourists.
Cidem said the number of domestic guests who stayed overnight in Safranbolu during the first six months of the year was 83,366, while the number of foreign guests was 20,892, bringing the total number of guests to 104,258.
Cidem said the association is carrying out joint efforts with other institutions to increase the number of visitors and overnight stays. "When we look at the foreign visitor numbers, we see a 13% decline compared to the same period last year, but when we look at our domestic guest figures, we appear to have closed that gap. Overall, there was a 2.4% increase compared to the same period last year," he said.
Cidem noted that Safranbolu is located approximately 2.5 hours from Ankara and 3.5 hours from Istanbul by road and continued, "Our Safranbolu is a place on the World Heritage List, under the protection of UNESCO. It has a structure where you can experience history and that preserves its authenticity."
''You can taste different flavors through our local cuisine in terms of gastronomy. In addition, around us there isn't just Safranbolu, but also Karabuk's districts of Yenice and Eflani and, nearby, Bartin, Amasra, Bolu, Abant and Yedigoller. When all of these are considered as destinations, we are at a central point," he added.
Cidem pointed out that demand for the region will increase with the saffron harvest, saying, "This year's saffron harvest festival, which will be held for the tenth time, will also become more colorful and more comprehensive. For the first time, it has gained international significance. A very comprehensive effort is being carried out under the leadership of the Safranbolu Municipality and the Safranbolu Chamber of Commerce and Industry.''
Adding that further announcements and details about this will also be made in October.
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