Candarolu

Candarolu refers to a historical Anatolian dynasty and the territory they ruled. The Candaroğulları Beyliği, or Principality of Candaroğlu, was one of the frontier principalities that emerged in Anatolia in the late 13th century following the decline of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum. The dynasty's founder was Candaroğlu, who established the principality in northwestern Anatolia, centered around the region of Kastamonu.

The Candaroğlu principality played a significant role in the regional politics of the era. They were known for their naval activities and their conflicts and alliances with neighboring Beyliks, as well as the Byzantine Empire. Over time, their territory expanded and contracted, influenced by the rise of the Ottoman Empire. The Candaroğlu eventually became vassals to the Ottomans and were later incorporated into the expanding Ottoman state. The last Candaroğlu ruler was İsfendiyar Bey, whose reign marked the final period of independence for the principality before its full absorption into the Ottoman Empire. The legacy of the Candaroğlu can be seen in historical sites and place names within their former domain.