Göynük is a district of Turkey's Bolu province. When we look at its history, we can say that Göynük has a deep-rooted past. The history of the district dates back to ancient times.
The region where Göynük is located has been under the influence of many civilizations throughout history. Various civilizations such as Hittites, Phrygians, Lydians, Persians, Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans ruled in this region.
Göynük became an important settlement center during the Byzantine period. Castles and structures in the surrounding area were built during this period. Göynük became a commercial and cultural center during the Seljuk period. It is known that the Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat came to Göynük and built a palace here.
During the Ottoman Empire, Göynük became a district of Bolu Sanjak. During the Ottoman period, many historical buildings such as mosques, baths, madrasahs and caravanserais were built in the city. Göynük continued to exist as an important cultural and commercial center in the last periods of the Ottoman Empire.
With the Republican era, Göynük became one of the important districts of Bolu. Today, Göynük has become a tourist attraction center that preserves its historical texture. There are many historical buildings, mansions, mosques and fountains belonging to the Ottoman period in the district. Göynük's historical atmosphere offers its visitors a nostalgic atmosphere with its narrow streets and stone houses.
Göynük is also famous for its natural beauties. Since the district is located at the foot of the Bolu Mountains, it is an ideal place for nature walks, trekking and nature sports.
Göynük's historical, cultural and natural richness makes it an attractive destination for visitors. Famous for its historical and natural beauties, Göynük offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors.
15 places to visit in Göynük
Since Göynük is a district famous for its historical and natural beauties, it is home to many places to visit. Here are some important places you can visit in Göynük:
- Göynük Castle: Göynük Castle, which is the symbolic structure of Göynük, is an important historical building from the Byzantine period. The castle is located on a high point of the district and has a magnificent view.
- İbrahim Pasha Mosque: İbrahim Pasha Mosque, which belongs to the Ottoman period, is the most important religious structure of Göynük. The mosque was built in the 14th century and bears the influences of Seljuk and Byzantine architecture.
- Göynük Houses: Göynük is famous for its stone houses. These houses, which preserve their historical texture, present beautiful examples of Ottoman and Seljuk architecture. You can discover the beauties of Göynük Houses by walking along the stone streets.
- Cinci Inn: Cinci Inn, built in the 17th century, is one of the historical caravanserais of Göynük. The inn, which has been restored and survived to the present day, gives visitors the atmosphere of the past.
- Köprülü Mehmet Pasha Mosque: The Köprülü Mehmet Pasha Mosque, built in the 15th century, is one of the important religious buildings of the Ottoman period. The mosque draws attention with its architectural details and decorations.
- Göynük Hamam: Goynuk Hamam, which remained from the Ottoman period, serves as a hammam that preserves its historical texture. Visitors can experience the traditional Turkish bath here.
- Göynük Fountains: There are many beautiful and historical fountains in the district. Especially fountains such as Yıldırım Beyazıt Fountain, Sultan Murat Fountain and Hacı Ali Pasha Fountain reflect the historical heritage of Göynük.
- Goynuk Nature Park: Goynuk Nature Park is an ideal place if you want to discover the natural beauties of Goynuk. Here you can take a walk, have a picnic with nature and spend a peaceful time by the lake.
- Göynük Museum: Göynük Museum is a museum that exhibits the history and cultural heritage of the district. The museum contains archaeological finds, ethnographic artifacts and historical documents.
- Historical Sycamore Tree: A historical plane tree in Göynük is an important natural symbol that has survived for centuries. You can enjoy nature by relaxing under the shade of this magnificent tree.
- Green Lake: Green Lake, one of the natural beauties of Göynük, attracts visitors with its impressive view. You can have a picnic in nature, take a nice walk or relax by the lake.
- Hagia Sophia Museum: The Hagia Sophia Museum, located in Göynük, is an important building belonging to the Byzantine period. The museum is adorned with historical artifacts and mosaics and is architecturally fascinating.
- Deliklikaya and Kızılcık Waterfalls: Deliklikaya and Kızılcık Waterfalls, located close to Göynük, are a beautiful route for nature lovers. It offers visitors a peaceful experience with its natural beauties, hiking trails and cool waters.
- Göynük Market Place: You can find local products and handicrafts in Göynük's historical market place. Here you can shop, try local delicacies and get to know the local culture.
- Göynük City Walls: One of the important structures reminding the history of Göynük is the city walls. The historical city walls reflect the past and protected texture of the district.
The places on this list represent only some of the places to visit and explore in Göynük. We encourage you to spend more time exploring Göynük's historical and natural riches.