Bucak: A Town of History, Marble, and Education in Turkey's Burdur Province
Located in the heart of Turkey's Burdur Province, Bucak is a charming town with a rich history dating back to the Oghuz Turks. The name "Bucak" literally translates to "sheltered nook" or "corner" in Turkish, reflecting its strategic location at the crossroads of major cities like Antalya, Isparta, and Burdur.
With a population of 45,865 (2021), Bucak is the second-most populous municipality in Burdur Province. The town boasts good connections to other parts of Turkey, with easy access to nearby cities via well-maintained roads. Neighboring towns like Çeltikçi, Ağlasun, and Kemer add to the region's charm and cultural diversity.
A stroll through Bucak reveals a mix of old and new architecture, with a few historic buildings and houses standing alongside modern structures. History buffs will delight in exploring ancient sites such as Cremna and Milyos, while the Seljuk-era caravanserais of İncirhan and Susuz Kervansaray offer a glimpse into the region's fascinating past.
Bucak is renowned for its rich marble resources, with many inhabitants engaged in the marble industry. The town is home to numerous marble factories that process and export high-quality marble worldwide. This thriving industry has contributed significantly to Bucak's economic growth and reputation as a major player in Turkey's marble trade.
Education is another area where Bucak shines. The town is proud of its entrepreneurial spirit, with many successful businessmen and women investing in the establishment of educational institutions. Notable examples include the Bucak Hikmet Tolunay Vocational Institute, Bucak Zeliha Tolunay Practical Technology and Business Faculty, Bucak Adem Tolunay Science High School, and Mehmet Cadıl Anatolian Teacher Training High School.
While Bucak may not have the highest scores in terms of amenities (B-), commute (B-), health (B-), culture (B), childcare & education (B-), NIMBY (B+), noise (C+), or overall total score (C+), it more than makes up for these with its unique blend of history, industry, and educational excellence. Visitors to Bucak will discover a warm and welcoming community that is proud of its heritage and eager to share its stories with the world.