Meydancık is a village (Turkish: köy) located in the Şavşat District of Artvin Province in northeastern Turkey. It is administratively classified as a rural settlement within the district’s jurisdiction.
Geography
- The village lies in the Black Sea region, characterized by mountainous terrain and a humid climate.
- It is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) above sea level, typical of the highland areas of Şavşat.
- The surrounding landscape consists of forested slopes, pastures, and nearby streams that contribute to the local agro‑pastoral economy.
Demographics
- According to the Address‑Based Population Registration System (ADNKS) data released by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) for the year 2022, Meydancık had a registered population of 112 residents.
- The population has shown a gradual decline over recent decades, reflecting broader rural‑to‑urban migration trends in the region.
Economy and Livelihood
- The local economy is primarily based on small‑scale agriculture, animal husbandry, and forestry.
- Residents cultivate staple crops such as wheat and barley, and maintain livestock, particularly sheep and cattle.
- Seasonal labor migration to larger towns and cities is common among working‑age inhabitants.
Infrastructure
- Meydancık is accessed by a local road that connects it to the district centre, Şavşat town, located approximately 15 km to the southeast.
- Basic services in the village include a primary school, a mosque, and a community center.
- Utilities such as electricity and potable water are supplied, though internet connectivity may be limited.
Cultural and Historical Context
- The name “Meydancık” derives from Turkish, meaning “small square” or “little open place,” possibly referencing a historic communal gathering area within the settlement.
- While the village does not possess major historical monuments, the broader Şavşat district is noted for its Ottoman‑era architecture, traditional wooden houses, and cultural festivals.
Administrative Status
- Meydancık falls under the governance of the Şavşat District Governorate and is represented in the local muhtar (village head) system.
- It is part of the Artvin Province’s administrative framework and participates in provincial development programs.
References
- Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), Address‑Based Population Registration System (ADNKS), 2022.
- Şavşat District Governorate, official website and publications.
- Geographic and topographic data from the General Directorate of Mapping, Turkey.
Note: Information presented reflects the latest available official sources as of 2023.
