Zonguldak

The city was established around 550 BC by Doric clans under the name of Mariandyn. Around 560 B.C. Megara and Boiotia people established a strong Greek colony there changing its name as Herakleia Pontika. The origin of the city’s Archaic name is based on Heracles, the legendary hero of Greek mythology. As time passed by, the Greek name Heracles was changed to "Eregli" among the people. The city, which was dominated by the Kingdom of Bithynia in the 2nd century BC, was occupied by Romans in the 1st century B.C. Then, the city was dominated by Byzantine, Genoese and Ottoman Empire, and named as "Bender-i Eregli" during Ottoman period. Eregli carried a great strategic importance during the War of Liberation with its rich coal beds and harbor. The city, which was occupied by France after WW I, was freed on June 18th, 1920.

Zonguldak has very beautiful beaches in Kopuz and Uzunkum, where you may choose one of the tea gardens or restaurants to watch the perfect scene around. If you are a nature-lover photography then you will take plenty of photos. Eregli, 60 km west of Zonguldak, is located on a hill where a Byzantine castle stands. Eregli has a mythological significance and it is said that near here at Kavakderesi Hercules caught the three-headed dog Cerberus and returned it to Hades, the god of underworld.

Safranbolu, 127 km southeast of Zonguldak, is now a district of Karabuk, and is like a museum of traditional Turkish architecture. The castle on the hill is a perfect spot for an overall view of the pretty town. The town is renowned, with its traditional houses which are really praiseworthy, especially the Cinci Han and Turkish Bath (Turkish bath), Izzet Pasha Mosque and Library, Koprulu Mosque, all from the 17th century Ottoman period. You may sit at the cafes which have a special atmosphere and watch the perfect scene in front of you, along with a Turkish coffee. Safranbolu is also famous for its extra quality "Turkish Delight" (Lokum).

Devrek is a green, scenic town, 50 km southeast of Zonguldak. The wooden walking sticks (baston) that are made here are very popular.