Trabzon targets UNESCO gastronomy status to grow tourism

Trabzon is positioning itself to expand its tourism economy by focusing on gastronomy and seeking candidacy for the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. Trabzon Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Metin Genç stated that the goal is to integrate gastronomy into a broader economic development model encompassing agriculture, local production, and cultural heritage.

The city's tourism sector has shown significant momentum, with tourism revenues exceeding $1.5 billion last year from approximately 1.447 million visitors. While foreign visitor numbers saw a slight decrease of about 3% in the first half of this year, domestic visitors increased by approximately 50%, contributing to a 14% rise in total tourism activity.

Beyond culinary ambitions, the region offers significant historical and natural attractions. Key landmarks include the Sümela Monastery, situated 300 meters above the Altındere Valley, the Atatürk Mansion in the Soğuksu district, and the Kızlar Monastery on the Boztepe hillside.