Welcome to Küçükköy, a picturesque historical village located in the Ayvalık district of Balıkesir, Türkiye. This charming coastal village, previously known as Yeniçarohori, carries a rich settlement history dating back to the 15th century. Over the years, Küçükköy has been home to multi-ethnic communities, including Rums (Anatolian Greeks) and Bosniaks, who have left their mark on the village's cultural fabric.
Designated as an urban conservation area, Küçükköy showcases the architectural splendours of traditional Rum design. Its streets are adorned with remarkable stone houses, cobblestone pathways, and art galleries, offering visitors a glimpse into the village's rich heritage.
Küçükköy boasts a remarkable array of tangible and intangible cultural heritage values that add to its charm and allure. The Küçükköy City Museum, housed in a 19th-century structure, serves as a gateway to the village's rich history and showcases its tangible cultural heritage. The museum beautifully displays Bosniak culture's tangible and intangible cultural elements, preserving their clothing, daily life materials, tools, and utensils.
The Ayiou Athanasiu Church, originally a Rum Orthodox church, now functions as the Küçükköy Central Mosque, representing the cultural transition and coexistence within the community. Another significant site is the Küçükköy Chapel, a testament to the late Ottoman period located just outside the urban conservation area.
Within the village's urban conservation area, visitors can marvel at 12 registered monumental fountains dating back to the 19th century, reflecting the architectural beauty of the era. The presence of five registered windmills as cultural assets further adds to the historical ambience of Küçükköy. Additionally, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Türkiye has recognised 69 residential buildings within the village, acknowledging their historical significance and preserving their architectural heritage.
In terms of intangible cultural heritage, Küçükköy embraces its traditions and festivities with pride. The Traditional Teferiç Festival, also known as Hıdırellez, is a vibrant celebration that showcases the village's cultural identity. The festival features traditional Bosniak dishes, offering a tantalising gastronomic experience for visitors. Wedding traditions, including the bridal dowry procession and lively folk dances like the Hora, further highlight the village's intangible cultural heritage, providing glimpses into the community's customs and social life.
Küçükköy's tangible and intangible cultural heritage values create a rich tapestry of history, architecture, traditions, and festivities, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the village's unique and captivating atmosphere.
Küçükköy's culinary scene is a true delight for food enthusiasts. The village takes pride in preserving and promoting the Bosnian culinary heritage, offering mouthwatering dishes like burek (Pita), dumplings, potoplika, pickles (soka), and desserts (dudo). Local venues, including restaurants and cafes in the village square, serve these traditional delicacies, ensuring a memorable dining experience for visitors.
With its natural beauty and cultural resources, Küçükköy has great potential for sustainable rural tourism. The village boasts seven blue-flag beaches, including those in Sarımsaklı and Badavut, meeting high standards of water quality, environmental management, education, and safety. Visitors can bask in the sun, enjoy water sports, or embark on hiking and cycling routes, immersing themselves in the natural wonders of the area. Nearby attractions like Şeytan Sofrası (Devil's Table) and Ayvalık Islands Nature Park offer additional opportunities for exploration.
Küçükköy's proximity to Ayvalık, a town inscribed on the Tentative List of UNESCO World Heritage, further enhances its appeal. The village itself has been declared an "Urban Conservation Area," ensuring the preservation of its historical and cultural assets. Renovated buildings have been transformed into art galleries such as The Digital Art Center "Kıraathane" and Sabancı Creative Workshop, providing visitors access to art, design, and digital and robotics training.
Küçükköy features a number of inclusive and empowering initiatives. It hosts the Traditional International Festival for Disabled Individuals, promoting awareness and inclusion of disabled individuals in workplaces and society. The Turkish Mothers' Association in Küçükköy carries out projects to empower women and promote their integration into society. At the same time, designated places allow Bosniak women to sell homemade products, supporting ethnic identities and fostering economic sustainability.
Küçükköy is also renowned for its olive oil. Efforts are underway to establish new facilities for the production and branding of organic olive oil, contributing to the economic sustainability of the region. The Traditional Ayvalık International Harvest Festival is organised annually to promote Ayvalık olive and olive oil, creating a platform for local producers.
Küçükköy, in addition to its own enchanting attractions, offers easy access to several nearby destinations that are worth exploring. Just 3.5 km away lies Sarımsaklı Beach, a stunning coastal paradise renowned for its pristine blue flag beaches. Sun-seekers can bask in the golden sands, take refreshing dips in the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in various water sports activities. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Sarımsaklı Beach offers a perfect seaside retreat.
A short 4 km journey from Küçükköy will bring you to Badavut, another idyllic destination featuring blue flag beaches. Badavut's tranquil shores beckon travellers to unwind and revel in the natural beauty that surrounds them. Take leisurely walks along the shoreline, build sandcastles with the little ones, or soak up the sun while enjoying the gentle sea breeze. Badavut provides an oasis of serenity for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
For a unique natural wonder, venture just 2.5 km from Küçükköy to discover Şeytan Sofrası, also known as the Devil's Table. This mesmerising geological formation offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean coastline. Perched atop a hill, Şeytan Sofrası provides an ideal vantage point to witness the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, including the azure sea, lush greenery, and picturesque islands. Visitors can embark on leisurely hikes or enjoy a picnic while revelling in the awe-inspiring scenery.
Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the proximity of Ayvalık Islands Natural Park, located just 3 km away from Küçükköy. This protected area is a haven for biodiversity, featuring diverse flora and fauna. Explore the park's walking trails and immerse yourself in the serene ambience of nature. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted to visit Küçükköy Tuzhan-Bird Watching Point, situated a mere 2 km away. Here, visitors can observe the graceful presence of flamingos as they inhabit the tranquil surroundings of Tuzhan. Capture stunning photographs or revel in the tranquillity of this birdwatcher's paradise.
These nearby attractions enhance the allure of Küçükköy, providing visitors with a range of options to explore the natural wonders and beauty of the region.
Access to Küçükköy is convenient through public transport services, with local buses operating from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm. The village is also easily accessible from Balıkesir Koca Seyit Airport (45 km) and Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (178 km), with Turkish and Pegasus Airlines flights. Additionally, Küçükköy enjoys excellent connectivity through highways and railways, providing access to major cities like Istanbul and Izmir.
Visit Küçükköy, an enchanting village where history, culture, nature, and gastronomy blend harmoniously. Immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere, explore the tangible and intangible cultural heritage, savour traditional dishes, and create lasting memories in this hidden gem of the Aegean.
