Giresun

Turkey

Giresun is a city in eastern Turkish Black Sea coast.

The name of "cherry" in many languages (including English) derives from the ancient name of Giresun—Kerasus—as the city was where cherries were first exported to Europe, during Roman times.

Giresun today has a population of about 115,000, and has a relatively liberal culture compared with its neighbours in Eastern Karadeniz.

  • Giresum Museum, Atatürk Bulv. 62 (below the citadel, close to the waterfront, +90 454 212-13-22. M-F 8AM-5PM. Housed in a Greek cathedral dating back to 18th century, overlooking the sea and with a view of the island. 3 TL; under 17 and over 65 yrs free.
  • Citadel. A well-preserved citadel in city centre.
  • Giresun Island. Except for tiny rocks, this is the only Turkish island in the Black Sea. Situated 1.2 km offshore, it is possible to rent a boat to the island from the city. Surrounded by verdant bushes and trees of the island are the ruins of a roofless temple and some fortifications, which are believed to be used by Amazons, a legendary clan of all-female warriors who terrorized the lands around the Black Sea in ancient times.

Giresum Museum, Atatürk Bulv. 62 (below the citadel, close to the waterfront, +90 454 212-13-22. M-F 8AM-5PM. Housed in a Greek cathedral dating back to 18th century, overlooking the sea and with a view of the island. 3 TL; under 17 and over 65 yrs free.

Citadel. A well-preserved citadel in city centre.

Giresun Island. Except for tiny rocks, this is the only Turkish island in the Black Sea. Situated 1.2 km offshore, it is possible to rent a boat to the island from the city. Surrounded by verdant bushes and trees of the island are the ruins of a roofless temple and some fortifications, which are believed to be used by Amazons, a legendary clan of all-female warriors who terrorized the lands around the Black Sea in ancient times.

With plenty of bars, Giresun has a relatively lively nightlife, and the destination of weekend trips for many regional visitors from nearby cities of Ordu and Trabzon.

Telephone code of Giresun is (+90) 454.