A group of Turkmen journalists visited several iconic landmarks in Türkiýe’s Rize Province, including the medieval Zilkale Fortress and the Camlihemsin Waterfall, located in the scenic Fırtına Valley. These sites are renowned for their historical significance and stunning natural beauty.
The media delegation included representatives from Business Turkmenistan, Turkmenportal, Orient, News Central Asia, Atavatan Turkmenistan, Medeniýet we Syýahat magazine, and the national television channel Türkmenistan TV4.
Perched on a steep cliff at an altitude of about 1,200 meters in the Chamlihemshin district, Zilkale Fortress dates back to the 13th–15th centuries. It once served as a strategic defense point for the Empire of Trebizond, overseeing mountain passes and regional trade routes. The fortress features thick stone walls with arrow slits, watchtowers, and an inner courtyard for the garrison. From its ramparts, visitors enjoy panoramic views of the Fırtına River valley and surrounding lush forests. Today, Zilkale is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of the Black Sea region’s historical heritage.
Nearby, the Chamlihemshin Waterfall stands as one of Rize’s natural landmarks, surrounded by green mountains and dense woodlands. Its height and picturesque setting make it a favorite spot for nature photography and eco-tourism. The surrounding area boasts rich biodiversity and blends traditional mountain architecture with tea plantations, offering a unique cultural and natural experience.
The Turkmen journalists also toured local tea plantations and visited the village of Checheva near Rize, where they learned about regional tea cultivation methods and rural tourism development.