Derepazarı (District)

Derepazarı is a district of Rize province in Türkiye’s Black Sea Region. It is located 8 km west of the city center of Rize, along the Black Sea coast. The district is known for its landscapes, historical structures, and cultural diversity, and is particularly significant for tea cultivation.

^{Derepazarı (Source:} Rize Derepazarı District National Education Directorate⁾

The history of Derepazarı began in 1954 when it gained municipality status. It attained district status in 1990. Historically, the area was administered as a subdistrict under the central district of Rize.

Derepazarı features a narrow coastal strip with parallel mountain ranges rising immediately behind it. The district covers an area of 28 km². It has a typical Black Sea climate with abundant rainfall throughout the year and high humidity levels. This climate provides favorable conditions for tea cultivation.

According to 2021 data, Derepazarı has a population of 3,913. The district consists of seven neighborhoods. The majority of the population resides along the coastal strip, and a noticeable population increase is observed during the summer months.

The economy of Derepazarı is primarily based on tea cultivation and processing. The district hosts tea factories and processing facilities. In addition, fishing and small-scale agricultural activities also contribute to the local economy.

Derepazarı has potential for tourism due to its natural beauty and cultural richness. Its location on the Black Sea coast offers opportunities for sea tourism during the summer months. Traditional Black Sea cuisine, especially tea and corn bread, is a notable feature of the district.