Photo: Ingeborg Simon (CC BY-SA 3.0) · Source 4 places to visit in the Eskipazar district of Karabük: Hadrianoupolis Ancient City, Eskipazar Castle and Eskipazar Forests. Plan your trip to Eskipazar with local food, practical tips and transport information.
Eskipazar is a district of Karabük, located at an altitude of 748 metres and covering an area of 754 km². The ancient city of Hadrianapolis is 3 km from the district. Eskipazar lies just off the Gerede–Karabük road, which carries transport between Istanbul and a large part of the Western Black Sea. As it lies between the Black Sea Region and the Central Anatolia Region, it has a transitional climate, and people’s livelihood is based on agriculture and livestock farming. Until 1995 it was a district of Çankırı; in 1995, when Karabük became a province, it was attached to Karabük. The district lies within the boundaries of Paphlagonia, the former regional name of the Black Sea Region. Archaeological excavations suggest that the buildings of the ancient city are 1,500 years old.
The ancient city of Hadrianopolis was settled from the 1st century BC to the 8th century AD and took its name in the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian. Hadrianopolis was home to one of the oldest known churches in Anatolia. Eskipazar district became a district of the newly founded province of Karabük in 1995, when it separated from Çankırı. Archaeological excavations at the ancient city of Hadrianopolis have continued since 2003.
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An ancient city founded in the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian, located 3 km south-west of Eskipazar. Excavations have revealed a church, bath, theatre and defensive structures. The mosaics on the church floor are particularly striking.
View on mapThe castle remains on the hill above the district centre date from the Byzantine period. This structure, which sheds light on the region's past through its historic fabric, offers visitors a distinctive experience.
View on mapThe forests around Eskipazar are suitable for walking and nature observation. With their clean air and natural beauty, they are a good place for day visits.
View on mapA theatre, one of the important structures of the ancient city of Hadrianopolis. It is among the finds mentioned among the structures of the ancient city.
View on mapWhile you are in Eskipazar, you can also see the highlights of Karabük province. These places are in other districts.
Eskipazar Sarı Traverten Taşı was registered as a protected designation of origin on 4 March 2025 (TÜRKPATENT registration no. 1707). Product group: other products. Registered by: Karabük Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
A thin-dough pide with minced meat, baked in a stone oven. This flavour, which holds an important place on local people's tables, is prepared using traditional recipes.
Minced meat spread over thin dough and baked in an oven, a traditional flavour of Eskipazar.
Hadrianoupolis Ancient City documents Eskipazar's importance in the Roman period. The mosaics and structures that came to light in excavations reflect the region's rich history.
Eskipazar's economy is based on agriculture, livestock farming and forestry. Grain, fruit and vegetables are the main agricultural products.
Eskipazar is 30 km from Karabük. Minibus services run from Karabük.
4 prominent places in Eskipazar: Hadrianoupolis Ancient City, Eskipazar Castle, Eskipazar Forests and Hadrianopolis Theatre.
Eskipazar Sarı Traverten Taşı, Eskipazar Pidesi and Etli Ekmek are the standout flavours on Eskipazar's tables.
Eskipazar is known for Eskipazar Honey and its Roman Period Heritage. Flower honey obtained from the forest areas of Eskipazar is recognised for its natural character.
Eskipazar is 30 km from Karabük. Minibus services run from Karabük.
Suggested visit length: half a day. Best time to visit: spring and autumn.