laz

Laz refers to the Laz people, an indigenous ethnic group of the Black Sea region. They are primarily located along the eastern Turkish Black Sea coast and in Adjara, Georgia, with smaller communities elsewhere. The Laz have a distinct language, traditions, and history that distinguish them from neighboring groups.

Language: The Laz language, Lazuri, is part of the southwestern branch of the Kartvelian language family, closely related to Georgian and Mingrelian. It is endangered, with transmission to younger generations diminished by dominant languages such as Turkish and Georgian. In Turkey, Laz communities often use Turkish in education and public life, while some families continue speaking Laz at home.

History: The Laz trace their roots to the ancient region of Colchis on the Black Sea coast. Over centuries they formed a distinct linguistic and cultural community under various empires, including the Byzantines and Ottomans. Many Laz converted to Islam during Ottoman rule, while others maintained Christian practices. Significant Laz migration to present-day Turkey occurred in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Demographics and culture: Today Laz communities are concentrated in Turkey’s Black Sea provinces such as Rize, Artvin, and Trabzon, and in Georgia’s Adjara region. Traditional music, dances, and crafts reflect coastal life. Cuisine features seafood and corn-based dishes. Cultural associations and festivals promote Laz heritage and language revival efforts.

Contemporary status: The Laz language faces endangerment, but there are ongoing academic, cultural, and community efforts to document and revive Lazuri. Diaspora communities in Europe and North America also maintain Laz identity through organizations and events.