Boxwood and Amasra: Its History, Importance and Products

Located on the Black Sea coast of Türkiye, Amasra is a coastal town famous for its natural beauty, historical texture and handicrafts. One of the elements that makes Amasra different is the local boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) and products obtained from this tree. Boxwood, which has been used for many years in both traditional handicrafts and daily life, has attracted attention with its durability and aesthetic appearance. In this article, we will examine the importance of boxwood for Amasra, its place in the historical process and the traditional products produced from it.

The Importance of Amasra in Terms of Boxwood Tree

Amasra has a very suitable geography for the growth of boxwood trees thanks to its mild climate and fertile soil. Boxwood is generally a slow-growing, densely textured and hard tree; these features make it ideal for both decorative and functional uses.

• The Heart of Handicrafts: Spoons, combs and carving products that you can often find in tourist shops in Amasra are some of the best-known examples of boxwood. Thanks to the hardness of the tree texture, it is possible to make fine carvings and the result is quite elegant handicrafts.
• Quality Raw Material: Boxwood has been used in many areas throughout history due to its high durability and not being easily worn out. This tree, which grows naturally around Amasra, is also valuable in terms of providing a quality raw material source.
• Touristic Value: For visitors to Amasra, boxwood products are both a souvenir and a unique gift. The sale of these products contributes to the regional economy and plays an important role in the promotion of Amasra handicrafts.

History of Boxwood and Its Importance in Ancient History

Boxwood (Latin name Buxus sempervirens) is a type of tree known and used in Anatolian lands since ancient times. Throughout history, different civilizations have preferred this tree for various purposes due to its hardness and durability:

1. Daily Item Production: Small-sized kitchen and personal care items such as spoons and combs that people used in their daily lives in ancient times were made of boxwood. Thanks to its hard structure, these items did not wear out quickly and were able to maintain their form for many years.
2. Musical Instruments: Boxwood has been used in the parts of some string or wind musical instruments because of its dense and dense texture, sound quality and timbre. In history, it is possible to come across boxwood in the body or neck parts of instruments such as oud and lute.
3. Ornaments and CarvingBoxwood, which has been the focus of artists for centuries, also has an important place in carving. Although the processing of finely detailed motifs is laborious due to the hard structure of boxwood, the result is very durable works of high artistic value.
4. Historical High Value: In ancient times, especially in palace circles, combs and similar accessories made of boxwood were a sign of prestige. Being considered a strong and showy tree, boxwood became a status symbol for royals.

Products Made from Boxwood

1. Kitchen Accessories

• Boxwood SpoonsBoxwood spoons, which you will find in many shops in Amasra, are known for being durable and healthy. Being resistant to high heat also makes it easier to use in the kitchen.
• Boxwood Cleaver Handles and Knife HandlesThe non-slip and comfortable grip surface of the tree supports its use as a handle for kitchen tools.

2. Personal Care and Beauty Products

• CombsBoxwood combs, which reduce the frizz of the hair and can be used for a long time with their durable structure, are a popular option especially for those looking for natural materials.
• Brush Handles: It is frequently preferred for brush handles with its natural texture and elegant appearance.

3. Decorative Objects and Gift Items

• Carving Art Products: The hard texture of boxwood is a challenging material for finely detailed work, but the results are impressive. For this reason, decorative products such as vases, small statues and figurines are made by carving masters.
• Jewelry and AccessoriesBoxwood pieces, which can be used in jewelry such as earrings, bracelets or necklaces, appeal to those who love natural and wooden looks.

Latin name for boxwood Buxus sempervirens It is in the form of.

Conclusion

Amasra, besides its natural beauties and historical richness, to the boxwood tree It is a Black Sea pearl that also stands out with its handicrafts based on wood. Boxwood, which grows slowly and has a hard texture, has been a preferred raw material for centuries to obtain long-lasting, durable and aesthetic products.

Throughout history, everyday objects, musical instruments, ornaments and even the prestigious accessories of the court have been made from boxwood. Today, in the touristic bazaars of Amasra, you can witness firsthand how boxwood is transformed into valuable works in the hands of masters. If you happen to be in Amasra, by purchasing a spoon or a comb made from boxwood, you will both support the tradition of these masters and touch a handicraft that lives intertwined with history.