Bornova Misket Grape Brought Together the Worlds of Science, History, and Gastronomy at Yeşilova Höyüğü

The Bornova Misket Grape, which received geographical indication registration from Bornova Municipality, was discussed from historical, agricultural, and gastronomic perspectives during a special event held at the Yeşilova Höyüğü Ziyaretçi Merkezi. Organized by the Urla Bağ Yolu Derneği, the program brought together academics, archaeologists, and gastronomy experts who emphasized the cultural significance of the Bornova Misket Grape from ancient times to the present day. The event highlighted the importance of preserving local values both for cultural heritage and the regional economy.

The Bornova Misket Grape, placed under protection through geographical indication registration obtained by Bornova Municipality, was examined through a special panel program focusing on cultural heritage, agricultural value, and gastronomy.

Hosted by Bornova Municipality and organized by the Urla Bağ Yolu Derneği, the event attracted strong participation at the Yeşilova Höyüğü Ziyaretçi Merkezi. Panels held under the themes of history, terroir, style, and gastronomy explored the place of the Bornova Misket Grape in Anatolian agricultural history, its aromatic characteristics, and its contribution to regional culture.

A Journey from Antiquity to the Present

The opening section of the program was attended by Selçuk Balkan, Mayor of Urla, Bornova Municipality Deputy Mayor Volkan Koçanalı, and Bornova Municipality Deputy Mayor Duygu Bölük. Experts emphasized the thousands-of-years-old history of the Bornova Misket Grape.

Serpil Erdurak, along with academics and researchers speaking at the panel, stated that İzmir and its surroundings have been among the centers of grape production culture since ancient times and noted that the Bornova Misket Grape holds an important place in the region’s agricultural memory.

The fact that the event was held at Yeşilova Höyüğü was also considered meaningful in drawing attention to the historical roots of agricultural culture.

Protected Through Geographical Indication

With the geographical indication registration obtained by Bornova Municipality, the aim is to preserve the local identity of the Bornova Misket Grape and pass it on to future generations. Experts emphasized that geographically indicated products hold not only economic value but also significant cultural, agricultural, and tourism importance.

It was noted that the Bornova Misket Grape is one of İzmir’s important local values thanks to its distinctive aroma, its connection to the regional climate, and its traditional production culture.

A Center of Attention for the Gastronomy World

In the final part of the event, chefs and gastronomy experts evaluated the place of the Bornova Misket Grape within culinary culture. Experts stated that the grape is not merely an agricultural product but also an important gastronomic value reflecting the cultural identity of the region.

Sessions organized during the program also emphasized the importance of preserving local products for sustainable agriculture and rural development.

Science, Culture, and Local Values Came Together in One Event

The organization, attended by archaeologists, gastronomy experts, academics, and producers, was regarded as an important gathering for the future of the Bornova Misket Grape.

Participants emphasized that protecting local values is important not only economically but also for preserving cultural memory.