Görele (District)

Giresun province’s Görele is a charming district situated along the Black Sea coast, where you can enjoy the harmonious blend of green and blue landscapes. It is renowned as one of the most captivating places in the Black Sea region, both for its history and its world-famous kemençe culture.

The name Görele originates from an ancient city in the region known in antiquity as "Coralla" or "Koralla." According to researchers, this name means "prominence" or "projection." Although some locals claim it derives from the phrase "git gör hele" (go and see for yourself), this is merely a playful folk etymology.

Görele has been an important settlement since ancient times. It came under Russian occupation in 1916 but was liberated from this occupation on 13 February 1918 through the determined resistance of its people. This significant date marks a turning point in the district’s history.

The highest point in the district is Sis Dağı, standing at 2182 meters above sea level. About a two-hour journey from the coast, its summit hosts more than twenty obas (seasonal mountain settlements). Every July, festivals held here bring together thousands of visitors to experience the unique atmosphere above the clouds.

^{Sis Dağı (}Kültür Portali⁾

Haç Dağı, located 1000 meters above sea level, derives its name from its cross-like shape when viewed from a distance. At its summit lies an intriguing cave called "Dongirik." It earned this name because when stones are thrown into the cave, they produce a "don don" echoing sound.

^{Haç Dağı (generated by artificial intelligence)}

Görele is the first place that comes to mind when the kemençe is mentioned. The kemençe is a stringed instrument made from juniper, plum, or mulberry wood, played with a bow and strung with horsehair strings. In Görele, affection for the kemençe begins in childhood, and the instrument is central to all celebrations, from weddings to holidays.

^{Kemençe (}Görele Municipality⁾

Master musicians such as Piçoğlu Osman and Katip Şadi were born in this district and played a vital role in introducing kemençe culture to the world. The Görele kemençe distinguishes itself from other regional variants through its delicate structure and sharp, resonant tone.

The district’s most important livelihood is hazelnut cultivation. Hazelnut orchards dominate the landscape, and locals also grow tea and corn for their own consumption. Görele pide, koz helva, and the famous dövme kar dondurması are among the district’s most beloved delicacies.