Yaylak

Yaylak is a Turkish term referring to a highland pasture area used during the summer, as well as the seasonal settlement established there. It denotes the practice of relocating livestock from lower elevations to upland meadows for grazing in the warmer months, in contrast to kışlak, the winter pasture. The concept reflects a traditional transhumant pattern found in parts of Turkey and related regions.

Geography and setting: Yaylaks are typically found on plateaus, alpine meadows, or high valleys where summers are milder than the lowlands. They are located in various mountain ranges across Turkey and in neighboring areas with similar climates, and they form an integral part of the regional landscape and rural economy.

Seasonal life and economy: In the summer, herders and their families reside in temporary or semi-permanent dwellings known as yayla evleri. Activities center on grazing management, milking and dairy production, haymaking, and the care of sheep and cattle. The yayla system supports livelihoods in remote highland areas and is an important element of regional culture, literature, and music.

Architecture and settlements: Yayla houses are often adapted to seasonal use, combining wooden construction with stone foundations and simple, movable features. Settlements may be clustered near streams or pastures, with infrastructure that accommodates short-term living during the grazing season.

Modern context and conservation: Some yaylaks remain active for agriculture and pastoralism, while others have become cultural heritage sites or tourist destinations. Environmental concerns include pasture management, seasonal overgrazing, and the impact of climate change on forage availability.