Soğucak

Soğucak
(Belenkeşlik)
Town
Soğucak

Location in Turkey

Coordinates: 36°58′N 34°33′E / 36.967°N 34.550°ECoordinates: 36°58′N 34°33′E / 36.967°N 34.550°E
Country  Turkey
Province Mersin Province
District Toroslar
Elevation 825 m (2,707 ft)
Population (2012)
  Total 2,103
Time zone EET (UTC+2)
  Summer (DST) EEST (UTC+3)
Postal code 33285
Area code(s) 0324
Licence plate 33

Soğucak (former Belenkeşlik) is a town in Mersin Province, Turkey.

Geography

The town is situated at the southern slopes of the Taurus Mountains. The average altitude is 825 metres (2,707 ft). It is 24 kilometres (15 mi) north of Mersin. The current population (as of 2012) was 2103.[1]

History

The earliest settlement was around a middle age castle. The castle as well as the small village was named Belenkeşlik. For many years, Belenkeşlik was used as a yayla (summer resort of Mersin citizens). During the second half of the 20th century the population of the village increased and the village was declared township in 1997.[2]

Economy

Although the mountains around Soğucak are covered with pine forests, there is enough agricultural land for the Soğucak residents. Fresh fruits and vegetables are the main products. House rental services during summers and animal husbandry are also pronounced activities.

References

  1. Statistical Institute page
  2. Mayor's page (Turkish)