Torakusu
| Torakusu 寅楠 |
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| City | |||
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| Nickname(s): Thraci city | |||
| Country |  Sanpantul |
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| Region | Torakusu | ||
| Founded | as Mihralipasha, 1674 AN | ||
| Government | |||
| • Mayor | Kenan Tarhan Eishi (Progressive, since 1741 AN) | ||
| Population (1746 AN) | |||
| • Total | 131,110 | ||
Torakusu (Sangunese: 寅楠, translit.: Torakusu?) is a city of Sanpantul.
Torakusu (Sangunese: 寅楠, translit.: Torakusu?) is a city in Sanpantul and the capital of Torakusu Prefecture. It has a population of 131,110 (1746 AN).
Geography
Torakusu lies in a broad valley surrounded by mountains and hills, without direct access to the sea. The scenic Ihlara Fjord, located about 25 kilometres to the west, is a popular destination for visitors from the city. The surrounding landscape is characterised by fertile plains, terraced hillsides, and small rivers that make the region suitable for agriculture. Torakusu is also known for its observation hills, which offer panoramic views, and its well-preserved old houses in the historic centre.
History
The area around modern Torakusu has been settled since antiquity, with traces of early Thraci habitation found in the valley. The modern city was founded in 1674 AN under the name Mihralipasha, when Thraci settlers from the west established a permanent community in the valley. The location was chosen for its fertile land, natural defensibility provided by the surrounding mountains, and proximity to important caravan routes linking inland Sanpantul with the Sandwich Strait.
During the late 17th and early 18th centuries, Torakusu became a focal point of Thraci migration into Sanpantul. The city soon developed into a cultural stronghold for the Thraci people, maintaining distinct traditions, music, and cuisine even under Sanpo administration. In 1710 AN, the settlement was officially renamed Torakusu following administrative reforms, reflecting both its growing population and its role as a regional centre.
Unlike many other prefectural capitals in Sanpantul, Torakusu retained its Thraci demographic majority, and to this day it is one of only two prefectural capitals in the country where the Sanpo are not the dominant ethnic group. The presence of Sicilian merchants, Sanpo officials, and Xiangi craftsmen contributed to the city’s cosmopolitan character, though the Thraci remained the cultural and social majority.
By the 18th century, Torakusu had also become known for its artisanship, particularly in metalwork, textile production, and food preservation methods such as pastırma. These trades, combined with the agricultural wealth of the valley, made Torakusu an important inland centre of commerce.
Demographics
Torakusu is home to a majority Thraci population, which has dominated the area since the city’s foundation. Minorities include Sicilians, Sanpo, and Xiangi, many of whom arrived through trade or administrative assignments. The city’s demographic balance has given it a unique identity within Sanpantul, blending Thraci customs with external influences.
Culture
Torakusu is often referred to as the cultural capital of the Thraci people in Sanpantul. The city is the birthplace of the celebrated poet Faruk Çıldır, whose works are considered emblematic of modern Thraci literature.
Local cuisine is distinctive and highly regarded. Specialties include Yalamuk (a traditional Thraci dish, it is obtained by peeling the gum from the trunk of the tree), çemen, and pastırma, which are considered culinary symbols of the region. Seasonal festivals celebrating music and food are also common, attracting visitors from across Sanpantul.
Landmarks
- Observation hills overlooking the city
- Old quarters with preserved traditional houses
- Cultural monuments dedicated to Thraci history
- Proximity to Ihlara Fjord, a notable natural attraction
