Safranbolu - a lesson in architecture

Step back in time and unwind

After a while the frenetic bustle of Istanbul gets to most people, so why not get out of the city for a couple of days? Safranbolu is a five-hour bus ride away, and still remains an undiscovered gem - to the extent that most Turks haven't heard of it, and those that have keep it close to their chests. Once an important town on the Silk Road , it takes its name from the saffron that's produced there. It was recently awarded status as an UNESCO cultural heritage site for it's well preserved Ottoman houses that make up the whole town. It's really like stepping back in time.

Safranbolu hasn't geared itself up to tourism yet, which is part of its charm, so it would be prudent to book a hotel before you arrive. As luxury goes it's hard to beat the distinguished Havuzlu Konak, formerly the Asmazlar family home, who served as the rulers on behalf of the Padisah in the last century. There has been a great effort made to dig up - and breathe new life into - Safranbolu's Ottoman past, and the official government site does a good job of walking you through the formidable efforts to preserve the town's impressive architectural heritage.

www.kultur.gov.tr

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