Fındıklı (District)

Fındıklı is a district of Rize province in Türkiye’s Black Sea Region. It is located 54 km east of the city center of Rize along the Black Sea coast. yer Known for its natural beauty historical structures and cultural diversity the district is particularly notable for tea cultivation and highland tourism.

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The history of Fındıklı extends back to antiquity. The region was successively ruled by the Colchians Romans Byzantines and the Empire of Trebizond. Fındıklı was incorporated into Ottoman territory in 1509 and attained district status in 1953. Its former name was Vitze which means valley in Laz.

Fındıklı features a narrow coastal strip with parallel mountain ranges rising immediately behind it. The district covers an area of 383 km². Bölge has a typical Black Sea climate with abundant rainfall throughout the year and high humidity. This climate provides favorable conditions for tea cultivation and orman products.

According to 2021 data Fındıklı has a population of 16487. The district includes 1 belediye and 23 köy. The majority of the population resides along the coastal strip and the population increases during the yaz months.

Fındıklı’s economy is primarily based on tea cultivation and processing. The district hosts tea factories and processing facilities. Additionally fishing and small-scale agricultural activities contribute to the local economy.

Fındıklı has significant tourism potential due to its natural beauty and cultural richness. The Çaylayan and Arılı valleys historic taş kemer bridges and highlands attract attention. The district offers favorable conditions for various alternative tourism activities such as hiking camping and mountaineering.

Fındıklı cuisine features the typical flavors of the Black Sea region with local dishes such as hamsili pilav and karalahana sarması standing out.