Marriage phenomenon in Azdavay region in Kastamonu province

This study is a study on the marriage phenomenon in Azdavay region, which is located within the borders of Kastamonu province. There are important stages in human life from birth to death. In folklore, these are called transitional periods. Transition phases can be broadly divided into three parts: birth, marriage and death. In this study, the marriage phase will be discussed. With its uninterrupted history of seven thousand years, Kastamonu has hosted many states such as the Hittite, Roman and Byzantine Empires, Danishments, Seljuks, Candarogullari, Isfendiyaroğulları, Ottoman Empire. These states with ethnic and religious differences have left a rich cultural heritage to the region. Azdavay also has an important place in Kastamonu's deep-rooted history. Although there are different practices in the marriage tradition, the general common practice is listed as asking a girl, promise, engagement, henna, wedding day. In our study of the region, the traditional practices that take place before the wedding, during the wedding and after the wedding, which include every stage of the marriage process, will be included. Beliefs have a strong influence on forming cultural values in society. Marriage ceremonies, which are one of the transition periods of life, include both oral culture products and rituals. With this study, it was aimed to determine the situation of marriage tradition in Azdavay region 70-80 years ago with field research and to reveal the traditions and customs of that period.