Karasu

Karasu Sakarya: Nature, History & Coastal Investment Hub

Located in the Marmara region of Turkey, specifically in the Sakarya province, is the district of Karasu. It is bordered by Kocaali to the east, Hendek to the south, Ferizli to the southwest, Kaynarca to the west, and the Black Sea to the north. Karasu is considered the meeting point between the Marmara and Western Black Sea regions, situated in the northern part of Sakarya province. The terrain of the region consists of low-lying, slightly undulating plains, with a gentle gradual elevation towards the south. Despite this, breakwaters have been constructed in some coastal areas in recent years to mitigate the impact of sea currents.

Origin of the Name

The origin of the name Karasu dates back to its old location, the village of Küçük Karasu, which means "Small Black Waters." This name was given to the village due to the surrounding swamps. After outbreaks of epidemics, the inhabitants moved to a location called İncilli, a neighborhood in the current Karasu center, and this new location carried the name Karasu.

Geography

The Sakarya River irrigates the lands of the region, contributing to the formation of fertile plains in the valleys and at its mouth into the sea, thanks to the silt it carries. The main lakes in the region include Lake Acarlar, Lake Akgöl, and the Küçükboğaz Lakes. Karasu is approximately 50 kilometers away from the center of Sakarya province and covers an area of 788 square kilometers.

History

The history of the region dates back to the 3rd century BC, when it was under the rule of the Kingdom of Bithynia. This rule continued until the 1st century BC, when the Roman Empire took control. During the Byzantine period, the Sakarya region was part of the Optimatoi Thema, and it was subjected to intermittent Arab raids. In the late 11th century, Artuk Bey, affiliated with the Seljuks, defeated the Byzantines, and the Seljuks controlled the region briefly, before the Byzantines regained control in 1072. Subsequently, the region was ruled by the Crusaders, the Danishmendids, the Seljuks of Rum, and the Nicaean Empire, which was founded in Iznik. In 1322, Karasu was annexed to the Ottoman territories by Konuralp, one of the commanders of Orhan Gazi. Until 1888, Karasu was affiliated with the Kastamonu region under the name "Pazarsuyu," then it became affiliated with the Izmit region. In 1933, Karasu became a sub-district, and in the same year, it became a district affiliated with Izmit. In 1954, with the establishment of Sakarya province, Karasu became a district affiliated with it.

Among the oldest historical monuments in the region is Karasu Castle, located on the banks of the Sakarya River between the villages of Karapınar and Akkum, of which only a few foundations remain. It is believed that the castle was built during the Byzantine period to secure navigation on the Sakarya River.

Karasu, formerly known as "İncilli," was a sub-district affiliated with the Kandıra district in the independent Izmit Mutasarrıflığı (governorate) in the late 19th century. The famous Ottoman traveler Evliya Çelebi mentions Karasu in his book "Seyahatname," saying: "It was founded 300 years ago in the village of Karasu. It is a town affiliated with the Kandıra district in the Sanjak of Izmit. Its inhabitants mostly work in coal transportation and fishing."

In 1898, zinc and lead were discovered in Karasu, and their exploitation continued until World War I.

The name İpsiz Recep Emice holds an important place in the history of Karasu. İpsiz Recep, originally from Rize, was a first lieutenant in the militia, and he made Karasu his headquarters during the Turkish War of Independence, making significant contributions to the national struggle. After the War of Independence, İpsiz Recep settled in the Yenimahalle neighborhood of Karasu, where he died and was buried in the Ulu Camii Mezarlığı (Ulu Mosque Cemetery).

During the Republican era, swamps were drained, and immigrants from the Caucasus and the Balkans were settled in the region. Karasu grew rapidly with waves of migration from the Eastern Black Sea region, which began in the 1940s and continues to this day.

Recently, the site of the German submarine U-20, part of the Thirtieth U-boat Flotilla that sank off the coast of Karasu in World War II, has been discovered.

Climate

The Black Sea climate prevails in Karasu, where winters are not very cold, summers do not experience extreme temperatures, and rainfall occurs in all seasons. Snow falls for only a few days and does not stay on the ground for long. The average annual rainfall is 1200 mm.

Economy

The economy of the region relies on agriculture, tourism, and fishing. The main agricultural crops include hazelnuts, corn, and wheat. Animal husbandry is the second most important source of income in the region. In addition, the Sebangia factory for the production of oil pipes is located near the city, contributing to the local economy.

Tourism

Karasu is characterized by its long sandy beaches, green natural landscapes, and its proximity to Lake Acarlar, making it a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer season. Popular tourist activities include swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boat trips, and nature walks.

Conclusion

Karasu is a region with a rich history and diverse cultural heritage, characterized by a strategic geographic location and abundant natural resources. Despite the economic and environmental challenges it faces, it has significant potential for future growth and development, particularly in the agriculture and tourism sectors. With proper planning and sustainable investment, Karasu can become a prominent tourist destination and a thriving economic center in the Marmara region.