These are not the streets of Spain, but a little paradise in the Aegean: People flock to this village to eat Bosnian pastry

İrem Kaya / AEGEAN TELGRAF- One of the most popular villages of Ayvalık , Küçükköy (Yeniçarohori) attracts attention not only with its natural beauty but also with its historical depth and cultural diversity. As one of the mysterious villages of the Aegean, this village has become an unforgettable route for both history enthusiasts and art lovers. Küçükköy is a settlement established in 1462 in line with the plan of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror for the island of Lesbos during the Ottoman period. However, the real story of the village is shaped by the Greeks and later Bosnians who settled after the Turks. Each culture has touched the spirit of the village and created the unique atmosphere of Küçükköy.

A HISTORICAL RICHNESS: THE ORIGIN OF KÜÇÜKKÖY

Küçükköy has been a place where different cultures have merged since its foundation. The village, where Turks first settled, was later named “Janissary Village” by the Greeks and translated into Greek: Yeniçarohori. The village underwent a major transformation, especially with the arrival of Bosnian immigrants in the early 20th century. This wave of immigration changed not only the language but also the village’s cuisine. Today, it is quite common to hear Bosnian conversations and smell delicious Bosnian pies on the streets of Küçükköy.

IN INTERACTION WITH ART: THE CREATIVE WORLD OF KÜÇÜKKÖY

Küçükköy attracts attention not only with its historical structures but also with its atmosphere intertwined with art. The art galleries, workshops and creative projects in the village have transformed Küçükköy into an art village. Local artists, inspired by living on stone streets, exhibit their works in the galleries. It is possible to encounter art in all its forms in Küçükköy. Among the favorite activities of those visiting Küçükköy are seeing traces of modern art in the galleries here, producing handcrafted works in creative workshops or spending time in an artist's studio.

THE MEETING POINT OF HISTORY AND ART

Küçükköy tells a different story at every corner. Here are some places you should explore in this magical village:

Küçükköy City Museum: A perfect spot to explore the history of the village. Historical artifacts dating from the Ottoman Empire to the present day will take you deep into the past.

Küçükköy Mosque (Aya Athanasiau): This mosque, which bears traces of Ottoman-era architecture, has both religious and historical importance.

Women's Street: A colorful and lively street where you can buy handmade products, jewelry and souvenirs. This is where local women's entrepreneurship comes to life.

Neferi Tin Soldier Workshop: This workshop, which makes tin soldier figures, is a must-see for art and collection enthusiasts.

Sabancı University Creative Technologies Workshop: This workshop, where projects that combine technology and art emerge, is full of innovative ideas.

Art Galleries and Workshops: You can browse the works of local artists in different styles in various art galleries and workshops in Küçükköy.

Kabbak House: This traditional house, bearing traces of Bosnian culture, is a great opportunity to get to know the village's past more closely.

And of course, getting lost in the stone streets… By getting lost in the narrow and stone-paved streets of Küçükköy, you can feel the spirit of this magical village.

TRANSPORTATION FROM IZMIR TO KÜÇÜKKÖY: AN EASY AND PLEASANT JOURNEY

It is quite easy to reach Küçükköy from İzmir. You can reach Küçükköy in about 2.5 hours by private car. You can easily reach this historical village by following the İzmir-Menemen-Aliağa-Bergama route. It is also possible to take a bus from İzmir Bus Station to Ayvalık and then take a minibus or taxi from Ayvalık to Küçükköy. You can reach Küçükköy in 10-15 minutes by minibus from Ayvalık.

WHAT TO EAT AND BUY IN KÜÇÜKKÖY?

Küçükköy's cuisine is as rich as its cultural structure. Bosnian pastry is one of the most famous flavors of the village. In addition, buying handmade jewelry and souvenirs from the women in the village is a great option to bring this cultural richness to your home as a souvenir. Küçükköy is not just a village, it is a place where past, art and culture meet. Whether you are a history enthusiast or an art lover, Küçükköy offers a different experience for everyone. You can spend an unforgettable day getting lost in the stone streets, getting inspired by the art galleries and discovering Bosnian cuisine. If you still haven't discovered this village full of secrets, make plans now and take a trip to Küçükköy.

Reporter: Irem Kaya