Çayeli Cultural Heritage Atlas project begins in Rize

A scientific research project titled “Çayeli Cultural Heritage Atlas: History, Culture and Living Heritage” has launched in the Çayeli district of Rize, Turkey. The initiative aims to document the region's fading cultural values and preserve them for future generations through a book and digital archive.

Led by Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University (RTEÜ) in collaboration with the Çayeli District Governor's Office, the project involves a 20-person academic team. Researchers from RTEÜ, Akdeniz University, Balıkesir University, and Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University are conducting field studies in areas such as Aşıklar Valley and Senoz Valley.

The research covers nine primary areas, including culinary culture, oral traditions, agricultural heritage, architectural history, traditional crafts, and social customs. Academics are conducting interviews with local residents to record oral histories, production methods, and local architectural details to create a comprehensive scientific inventory.