Turkish travertine with striking golden hue seeks geographical recognition

The Karabuk Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KTSO) has launched efforts to secure a geographical indication for Eskipazar yellow travertine, a historically significant and architecturally crucial stone from Türkiye.

This initiative seeks to protect the unique characteristics and heritage of the travertine stones sourced from Eskipazar, a district known for its abundant natural reserves.

Eskipazar's yellow travertine has long been a staple of Turkish architecture, prominently featured in major structures such as Anitkabir and the buildings of the Turkish Parliament.

KTSO President Fatih Capraz, after inspecting the Eskipazar quarry, emphasized the stone's historical and aesthetic importance. He stated, "Many civilizations have used this travertine throughout history due to its ease of processing and its striking golden hue, which lends a decorative appeal."

Travertine's open, porous structure, largely made up of aragonite with spots of micro calcite crystals, offers unique advantages: It is slip-resistant on wet surfaces and does not allow bacterial growth due to its chemical makeup. These features make it especially valuable for preserving historical sites and fulfilling modern construction requirements.

Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Türkiye's founding leader Mustafa Kemal Ataturk in Ankara, heavily utilizes this travertine in its ceremonial grounds and surrounding walls. The travertine's use extends to the exterior of several blocks of the Third Turkish Parliament's building as well.

Capraz highlighted the need for geographical indication status, explaining, "It is essential to secure a geographical indication for such an important product to protect and promote our cultural heritage and local industry."

This designation aims not only to preserve the stone's legacy but also to stimulate local industry by spotlighting Eskipazar yellow travertine's distinctive properties both nationally and internationally.

The campaign is poised to enhance regional attention and economic prosperity, ensuring this natural resource continues to enrich Türkiye's cultural and architectural heritage.

Source: Newsroom