Woodturners' Bazaar (Çekiciler Çarşısı)

Amasra’s Craft Tradition: Woodturning

The name Çekiciler Çarşısı comes from a craft unique to Amasra: ağaç çekiciliği (woodturning). The craft involves shaping a rotating block of wood on a lathe with a cutting tool to produce vessels, bowls and decorative gifts.

Hazelnut, walnut and olive trees are abundant in and around Amasra, and the hardwood from these trees is prized for turning. The craft has been practised in the region for centuries and is still kept alive today in the workshops of the Woodturners’ Bazaar.

What Is Sold Here?

• Wooden bowls and dishes — made from hazelnut or walnut, in various sizes
• Spoon and ladle sets — suitable for kitchen use; handle and bowl turned from a single piece
• Salad serving sets — for the traditional presentation of Amasra Salad
• Small decorative items — keyrings, figurines, decorative pieces
• Traditional patterned ornaments

Shopping Tip

Products sold in the Woodturners’ Bazaar may be either factory-made or handcrafted. To tell the difference, look for the small centring mark left by the lathe or for slight irregularities in the finish. Genuine artisan pieces are more expensive but far more durable.

Pair with the Amasra Museum

The ethnography hall of the Amasra Museum also displays objects relating to the woodturning craft. Visiting the museum first and then stopping at the Woodturners’ Bazaar gives you the chance to experience this craft in both its historical and living contexts.

Location

Very close to the entrance of Amasra Castle, right next to the Amasra Hotel.