Bartın is a small Black Sea province in northwestern Turkey, known for its Ottoman wooden architecture, the historic coastal town of Amasra with its Genoese castle, the Bartın River winding through forests, and the long sandy stretch of İnkumu Beach. A compact and largely overlooked destination, Bartın rewards travellers seeking authentic Turkish provincial life, unspoiled Black Sea scenery, and traditional wood-carving crafts.
Historical timeline
Key moments that shaped Bartın.
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1
City of Amastris founded on the Amasra peninsula by Amastris, niece of Persian satrap Darius III.
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2
Amastris incorporated into the Roman Province of Bithynia and Pontus.
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3
Byzantine Church of St. Sophia built inside the castle walls.
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4
Genoese establish trading colony; castle towers and sea walls reinforced.
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5
Ottoman forces under Mehmed II capture Amasra, ending Genoese Black Sea presence.
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6
Bartın Province officially created, separated from Zonguldak Province.
Historical sites
Places where Bartın's past comes alive.
Amasra Kalesi (Genoese Castle)
Where: Amasra peninsula
Admission: ₺80–120 (approx $1.75–2.60); Müzekart accepted
Amasra Byzantine Walls
Where: Amasra peninsula perimeter
Admission: Free (exterior)
Amasra Museum
Where: Amasra town centre
Admission: ₺80–120 (approx $1.75–2.60); Müzekart accepted
Amasra Fatih Mosque (former St. Sophia Church)
Where: Inside Amasra castle walls
Admission: Free
Güzelcehisar Castle Ruins
Where: Güzelcehisar village, near Amasra
Admission: Free
Bartın Ottoman Wooden Houses
Where: Şehitler Mahallesi, Bartın city
Admission: Free (exterior walk)
Bartın Ethnography Museum
Where: Bartın city centre
Admission: ₺30–60 (approx $0.65–1.30)