Çiftlik

Çiftlik is the Turkish term for a farm or farming estate. It refers to a unit of land and the accompanying buildings used for agricultural production, including fields, pastures, a residence, barns, and storage facilities. While many çiftlik are family-operated, the size and scope can vary from small hold­ings to larger commercial enterprises.

Etymology: The word derives from Turkish çift meaning 'pair' or 'two,' combined with the suffix -lik to form a noun indicating a place or property. Historically, the term has been used to describe land managed with animal-drawn implements and cooperative work, and today it denotes a broad category of rural agricultural properties in Turkish usage.

Types and operations: A çiftlik may specialize in crops such as cereals, fruits, or vegetables; keep livestock such as cattle, sheep, or poultry; or operate as a mixed farm combining crops and animals. Common facilities include arable fields, pastures, barns, silos, a dwelling, and equipment storage; irrigation systems may be installed where needed. Some farms engage in agritourism or direct-sale activities, selling produce at farmers’ markets or through on-site farm shops.

Economic and cultural context: In Turkey, the concept of a çiftlik has historically been central to rural life and local economies. It is often inherited within families and forms an important part of agricultural labor, supply chains, and regional landscapes. In modern agriculture, çiftlik can operate under various legal forms, ranging from traditional smallholdings to larger corporate-style enterprises.

See also: agriculture in Turkey; farm; agritourism.