In the UNESCO World Heritage City of Safranbolu, the traditional saffron harvest, which has been ongoing for centuries, has begun. Each strand of saffron, worth its weight in gold, is collected with great effort, contributing to the local economy and adding flavor to world cuisine.
Safranbolu Mayor Elif Köse stated, “There is a significant level of activity observed in Safranbolu. Currently, the occupancy rate of hotels is almost 100%.”
The price of saffron has reached 500,000 TL per kilogram.
Saffron producer İsmail Yılmaz noted that they expect the price of saffron, known as the world’s most expensive spice, to be between 450,000 and 500,000 TL (Approximately 13,500 dollars) per kilogram.
He said, “We produce as a family on an area of over 20 decares. I hope to harvest around 20 kilograms or more by the end of the season. Since my family started this business, almost all my relatives have turned to saffron production. We have 13-14 saffron producers in our village. There is production on over 40 decares in this village.”
“We collect saffron flowers from the morning until noon. After collecting the flowers, we start cleaning the red threads within the same team. This is a laborious journey because the flowers will bloom again the next day. Safranbolu receives many visitors and tours from both domestic and international locations. Agencies are now adding saffron harvesting to their programs. This period is very active in Safranbolu. For example, hotels are full. The local tradespeople and producers are very pleased.”
The price of one kilogram of saffron exceeds the price of gold.
Saffron, derived from the dried stigmas of the Crocus sativus plant, is one of the most expensive spices in the world. It is also a valuable product frequently used in kitchens and the cosmetics industry due to its unique aroma and vibrant color.
Saffron has been prominently featured in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs and in ancient Greek mythology. Throughout history, it has been used for medicinal purposes to treat various ailments. Due to its high cost, it has long been a spice that adorned the tables of kings and the wealthy.
Saffron, with its unique, slightly bitter and sweet aroma, gives dishes a vibrant yellow color. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, it strengthens the immune system, benefits heart health, may alleviate symptoms of depression, and regulates the digestive system.
In the kitchen, it is used especially in rice dishes, desserts, and beverages. In the cosmetics industry, it is found in skincare products and perfumes.
Production is quite labor-intensive and lengthy. To obtain just one gram of saffron, stigmas must be collected from thousands of flowers.
Cover Photo: Murat Özelci/DHA