Artvin stands out with its natural beauties, rich cultural heritage and traditional lifestyle. Geographically located in a difficult terrain, this city has both traditional village life and elements of modern urban culture. This diversity makes life in Artvin unique.
Life in Artvin is intertwined with nature, especially in rural areas. Agriculture and animal husbandry constitute a large part of economic activities. This causes the daily life of the people of the region to have a seasonal rhythm that requires intensive labor. Livestock breeding, especially sheep and goat breeding, is an important source of livelihood for those living in the highlands. In the lowlands, agricultural products such as tea and hazelnuts are common.
Traditional Artvin houses are generally built using stone and wood, in accordance with the rugged terrain. These houses have wide roof eaves and high foundations to adapt to the climate conditions with frequent rainfall. Inside the houses, there is usually a large hearth, which is used for heating the house and cooking.
The customs and traditions of the people of Artvin reflect the ethnic and cultural diversity of the region. Cultural activities of ethnic groups such as the Laz and Hamshen people can be seen at local festivals and weddings. At these events, traditional clothes are worn, local dances such as horon and bar are performed, and regional music is played. Local food is also an integral part of these events. Corn bread, black cabbage soup, trout and cheese varieties are the cornerstones of Artvin cuisine.
Festivals organized in Artvin are important in terms of keeping the culture of the region alive and promoting it. For example, the annual Kafkasör Culture and Art Festival attracts the attention of both locals and tourists. This festival includes bullfights, concerts by local artists and folk dances.
In addition, religious holidays and special days are celebrated with great enthusiasm in Artvin. Such events foster a strong spirit of solidarity and strengthen social bonds among community members.
In conclusion, life in Artvin is a blend of challenging geographical conditions and rich cultural heritage, with traditional and modern elements intertwined. This structure makes Artvin not only a place to live, but also a region with a rich cultural heritage waiting to be discovered.