Ünye (District)

Imagine a place where blue meets green, and every corner holds a different story. Ünye is an ancient town along the Black Sea coast, generously gifted with all of nature’s beauty. It is a wonderful place for children to explore—not only for its sea and forests but also for its thousands of years of history. Let us discover this beautiful district together!

Ünye’s history extends far beyond what one might assume, reaching back to a time before humans even invented writing. Excavations have revealed that people lived here as far back as 15,000 years ago.

Research in the caves of the Cevizdere Valley has uncovered stone tools and pottery. One of the hand axes found during these excavations is the oldest artifact ever discovered along the entire Black Sea coastline.

Many legends tell of warrior women known as “Amazons” who lived in the region around Ünye in ancient times. Although it is not certain whether they truly existed, the stories of these powerful women continue to be passed from mouth to mouth.

While walking through Ünye you may sometimes feel as if you have stepped into a fairy tale—or a time machine.

On a high hill slightly away from the town center rises a massive 2,500-year-old castle. Inside the castle are enormous passageways and rock-cut tombs. When you look at it, you can easily imagine how ancient kings once lived here.

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During the Ottoman period, many learned judges—known at the time as “kadı”—lived in Ünye. The street where these judges resided is now called Kadılar Yokuşu. The doors and windows of the historic houses along this slope are so beautifully crafted that you may find yourself pausing to admire each one as you walk.

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When you breathe in Ünye you immediately notice the pristine air filling your lungs.

• Uzunkum Beach: A wonderful place to enter the sea and play in the sand.
• Monumental Trees: In the town center stand enormous plane trees older than 300 years. Resting in their shade is a delightful experience.