Hopa (District)

A vibrant district situated along the Black Sea coast, at the foot of lush green mountains. Artvin, to which this place belongs, is notable for both its sea and natural beauty. The Sarp Border Gate, Türkiye’s gateway to the Caucasus, is also located here.

Hopa has been home to many civilizations since ancient times. This region, once within the borders of the Kingdom of Colchis thousands of years ago, was inhabited by Romans, Byzantines, and Seljuks. Hopa became part of Ottoman territory in 1471 during the reign of Yavuz Sultan Selim.

^{Hopa (generated by artificial intelligence)}

The district, which once fell under Russian administration, came entirely under Turkish control on 14 March 1921. Although it remained attached to Rize for a period during the Republic era, it became a district of Artvin in 1936. Throughout its history, it has consistently maintained its role as an important port and trade center.

Hopa is the smallest district of Artvin by area but the most populous. Behind it rises the imposing Balıklı Mountain, while before it stretches the endless Black Sea. Due to this location, Hopa is one of Türkiye’s areas receiving the highest rainfall, with over 2,000 millimeters annually. As a result, the district remains lush and green throughout all seasons. The abundant rain and humid climate enable rapid plant growth. Urbanization is dense along Hopa’s narrow coastal strip.

The main source of livelihood for Hopa’s residents is agriculture, with tea being the most widely cultivated crop. Thousands of tons of tea are produced in the district and processed in local factories. In addition to tea, hazelnuts, kiwi, and wild blueberries are among the other important agricultural products.

Hopa is also renowned for its trade, not just agriculture. Thanks to Hopa Port and the Sarp Border Gate, numerous ships and trucks arrive daily. This activity has made Hopa one of the busiest trade centers on the Black Sea.

The Orta Hopa Camii, located in the city center, is one of the district’s most important historical structures. Believed to have been built toward the end of the 19th century, the mosque is known for its stone walls and wooden decorations. The ceiling and minbar embellishments inside are particularly colorful.

^{Orta Hopa Camii (generated by artificial intelligence)}

The mosque was restored in 1993–1994 to closely match its original form. Although its exterior appears modest, the green-painted interior decorations and craftsmanship attract visitors. It continues to serve today as a valuable part of Hopa’s cultural heritage.

Hopa first encountered Islamic armies approximately 1,500 years ago, in 853, for a brief period. It later took its place in Turkish history following the arrival of Seljuk Sultan Alp Arslan in 1064.