Kınık

Kınık, according to historians, means “wherever he is, he is a saint.” The district has taken its name from the Kınık clan of the Bozok branch of the Ghuzz Turks.

Historical places in Kınık

The Beşiktaş Hill, visible from the districts of Kınık, Bergama and Bakırçay lowland; reflects the traces of the past, and therefore is the first place to see. Named Beşiktaş (cradle stone) because it resembles a cradle, the hill was mentioned in various stories and myths with its two caves, one of which is natural. Today, the manmade cave, which has collapsed, was used for detaining criminals or preserving provisions in the old times. During the archeological excavation works, many coins, pottery parts, etc. that belonged to the Gambrion, Bergama Kingdom, Roman and Byzantine periods were discovered.

Karadere Village (Mamurt Castle-Kybele), where the history of Kınık started, and Asar Castle (Kocaömer), which was used as a watchtower by ancient civilizations, are the other historical places to visit.

A day of green and blue in Boncuklu Lake

When you visit Kınıklı, don’t forget to head to the Boncuk Lake, located between Kınık and Poyracık districts if you want to unwind and relax in a unique place while listening to birds sing and to enjoy tea or delicious grilled kebabs.

Rug weaving in Kınıklı

Local women learn the art of rug weaving at workshops and courses opened by the Municipality of Kınık and market their handmade products. Along with improving their crafts and skills at the workshops, the women also earn an income from weaving rugs. If you’re interested in buying these rugs, feel free to stop by these workshops.

Where to visit

You can wander around Karadere, an old village full of historical ruins and get some fresh air. You can visit Mamurt Hill, the highest hill of the Yunt Mountain to see the axe from the Stone Age and Mamurt Castle where you can find the ruins of the Temple of Cybele. Asar Castle in Kocaömer village, which was built during the Ottoman period and looks like a tumulus, Cumalı Mosque in Cumalı village and Yıldırım Mosque in Poyracık village are among the other structures that have managed to survive to the present day. In Boncuk Lake you can spend a day with nature, have a barbecue and picnic, and you can walk around the lake.

What to eat

You can attend the Camel Wrestling Festival and Kınık Education and Science Festival which are held every year. On Fridays, you can visit the Kınık bazaar to buy organic products and local handicrafts. By visiting the rug weaving workshops that are opened and supported by the municipality, you can examine and buy carpets that are made by local women in order to contribute to their family economies.