Photo: Bertramz (CC BY-SA 3.0) · Source 10 places to visit in the Ardanuç district of Artvin: Gevhernik Castle, Ardanuç Castle and Bulanık Church. Plan your trip to Ardanuç with local food, practical tips and transport information.
The district covers 958 km² and lies at an altitude of 482 metres.
Ardanuç, on the bank of the Ardanuç Stream, a branch of the Çoruh River, was a settlement even before Christ. In 1080, the Great Seljuks captured and burned the town.
Ardanuç is one of the oldest settlements in the historic Klarceti region. In the Middle Ages, it became one of the important centres of the Bagrationi dynasty. Ardanuç Castle was restored in the 810s by the Georgian King Ashot I. The İskender Paşa Mosque was built in 1553-1554. Archaeological excavations at Ardanuç Castle began in 2021.
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Built in the 9th century during the Georgian Bagrationi dynasty, Gevhernik Castle is Ardanuç's most important historic structure. Archaeological excavations in 2024 uncovered the tomb of the Georgian King Ashot the Great.
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Photo: Bertramz (CC BY-SA 3.0) · Source Ardanuç Castle, near the centre of the district, is dated to the Middle Ages. Built during the Georgian Kingdom period, the castle was also used in the Ottoman period and is notable for its strategic position.
View on mapThis Georgian church in Bulanık village, attached to Ardanuç district, is dated to the 10th century. With its stonework and architectural details, it is one of the important religious buildings of the Tao-Klarjeti period.
View on mapThe church in Çamlık (Rabat) Neighbourhood, in Bulanık Village attached to Ardanuç.
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Photo: Jaba1977 (Attribution) · Source The Ardanuç Valley, formed by one of the branches of the Çoruh River, is an ideal walking route for nature lovers with its deep canyons and green forests. Georgian-era castle and church ruins can be found along the valley.
View on mapA forested plateau 15 km from Ardanuç district centre, within the boundaries of Konaklı Village.
View on mapWhile you are in Ardanuç, you can also see the highlights of Artvin province. These places are in other districts.
Kuymak is prepared by stirring cornmeal and butter continuously over a fire. With civil cheese added, it becomes stringy, and it is the traditional flavour of Ardanuç.
Made with kale, cornmeal and beans, this soup is an indispensable dish in Ardanuç's winter months. It is favoured on cold days for its nourishing and filling qualities.
A traditional bread made from cornmeal, cooked on a griddle or in an oven. It is a staple of Ardanuç tables and is eaten with cheese and butter.
One of Ardanuç's important dishes.
Ardanuç was one of the important centres of the Georgian Tao-Klarjeti region in history. Gevhernik Castle and the surrounding church ruins are evidence of the rich cultural heritage of this period.
Archaeological excavations at Gevhernik Castle have uncovered medieval tomb chambers, kitchen remains, cisterns and coins. These discoveries shed light on the history of the region.
The economy of Ardanuç rests on agriculture, livestock farming and forestry. Walnuts, apples and pears are grown in the mild microclimate of the valley. Large livestock farming and beekeeping are important sources of livelihood. Archaeological excavations at Gevhernik Castle are increasing the district's potential for cultural tourism.
Ardanuç is reached by road, 55 km from Artvin provincial centre. The nearest airport is Rize-Artvin Airport (220 km). Regular minibus services run from Artvin.
The highlights of Ardanuç are ten places: Gevhernik Castle, Ardanuç Castle, Bulanık Church, Ardanuç Valley, Cehennem Deresi Canyon, Ardanuç Castle (Gevhernik), Bilbilan Plateau, Rabat (Bulanık) Church, Ferhatlı Castle and Çurisbil Plateau.
Kuymak, Karalahana Soup, Corn Bread and Cağ Kebabı are the standout dishes on Ardanuç's tables.
Ardanuç is known for honey and the Tao-Klarjeti Heritage. Honey obtained from Ardanuç's forest and plateau areas is known for its variety and quality. Chestnut honey and wildflower honey are the region's most valuable products.
Ardanuç is reached by road, 55 km from Artvin provincial centre. The nearest airport is Rize-Artvin Airport (220 km). Regular minibus services run from Artvin.
Suggested visit length: 1-2 days. Best time to visit: spring and summer months (May-September).