Yusufeli, town and district in Artvin Province, Turkey
Yusufeli is a small town in Artvin Province in northeastern Turkey, situated along the Çoruh River and surrounded by steep mountains that enclose the green valley. Simple stone houses, farms, and a small mosque form the core of the settlement, with forests and hills rising on all sides.
The area has a long history of farming and animal herding, with people living here for many generations and preserving stories of local heroes who defended their land. More recently, the construction of a major dam brought modern infrastructure while altering the landscape and natural water flow of the region.
The town's name carries historical roots and its character shows in simple stone and wooden houses with tiled roofs built to endure mountain weather. Local gatherings feature drumming and singing where residents wear traditional clothes, keeping their customs alive through these shared celebrations.
The streets are quiet with light traffic where most people walk or use small vehicles, and basic shops plus a small market offer daily supplies. Visitors can walk along the clear, cold rivers, explore mountain trails, and enjoy clean air, particularly during dry weather periods.
A large modern dam sits nearby and transformed the landscape dramatically, while the town continues holding onto its traditional roots. This blend of rural village culture with a modern infrastructure project makes this place where two different worlds coexist side by side.
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