Having lately been acknowledged by the United Nations as one of many “Greatest Tourism Villages,” Ormana, a tranquil village nestled within the mountains of southern Türkiye, is poised to capitalize on the rising pattern of ecotourism.
A complete of 55 villages worldwide acquired this honor, with Ormana being the only real consultant from Türkiye.
Dwelling to only 600 residents, this mountain village is famend for its gorgeous landscapes, wealthy historical past, and distinctive tradition, providing a serene escape from the bustling city facilities and crowded seashores alongside Türkiye’s southern Mediterranean coast.
“Ormana is selling conservation, cultural preservation, and neighborhood engagement,” mentioned Fikret Canbas, the village’s head, in an interview with Xinhua.
Following the UN award, “overseas potential guests are incessantly calling our telephones for inquiries, asking about our lodging,” Canbas famous, highlighting the village’s rising attraction to vacationers.
Considered one of Ormana’s most distinctive options is its “Button Homes,” conventional stone properties which have stood for over 4 centuries.
“The distinctive design of those homes, constructed with bonding timbers, includes a picket body that recurs at particular intervals. The stones are held in place by the timber, which is strengthened by vertical cedar items, giving the homes their ‘buttoned’ look,” Canbas defined.
These homes, with their enduring craftsmanship, present a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity of previous generations.
“The village has a historical past of 850 years. The oldest home is 450 years outdated. There are over 300 Button Homes within the village, most of that are thought of a part of its historic heritage,” mentioned Tolga Ozguven, a village native and tourism promoter.
The inflow of vacationers over the previous decade has introduced important financial advantages to Ormana, permitting native companies similar to small motels, craft retailers, and eating places to thrive.
In line with Ozguven, the neighborhood is now managing tourism in a approach that prioritizes sustainability to protect Ormana’s attraction and ecological integrity.
Annual festivals are one other spotlight of the village, that includes performances, craft exhibitions, and culinary delights.
“These occasions not solely rejoice the area’s heritage but in addition strengthen the sense of neighborhood amongst locals and guests,” Canbas mentioned.
Vacationers visiting Ormana are inspired to immerse themselves in village life. Native households typically open their properties to guests, providing an genuine expertise of conventional Turkish hospitality, he added. ■
