Yabilir

Yabilir is a village situated in the eastern Anatolian province of Tunceli, approximately 120 kilometres from the provincial capital. The settlement lies at an altitude of 1,250 metres above sea level, within the foothills of the Munzur Mountains, and is surrounded by gentle slopes covered in deciduous oak and fir forests. According to the latest population data from the Turkish Statistical Institute, Yabilir has an estimated population of 358 residents, with a demographic composition primarily consisting of Kurdish inhabitants who belong to the Alevi sect.

The origins of Yabilir date back to the 18th century, when families from nearby mountainous hamlets established a small agrarian community in the area. Historical records from the Ottoman period refer to the village as “Yabır” and note its role in supplying grain and livestock to nearby towns. Throughout the 20th century, Yabilir maintained a largely subsistence-based economy, with most families engaged in small-scale farming and pastoralism. In recent decades, improvements to the regional road network have increased accessibility, promoting modest trade and tourism.

Tourist interest in Yabilir has grown due to its landscape views, traditional stone architecture, and proximity to the Munzur National Park. Visitors often participate in cultural festivals celebrating Alevi traditions, including the annual “Görgüler” ceremony, which welcomes spring. The village also serves as a gateway for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts exploring the surrounding forests, which are home to wildlife such as roe deer, wild boar, and various bird species. Yabilir remains a small, yet vibrant community that reflects the historical and cultural diversity of eastern Turkey.