The "Ilgaz Poetry Nights-1" event, organized by Kastamonu University and the Kastamonu Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, brought together literature and art enthusiasts on May 27, 2025, at the Living Museum and City Archive of Kastamonu University.  

The program, held in the event area noted for its historical atmosphere in Beyçelebi Neighborhood, was attended by our Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Selahattin Kaymakcı, Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism M. Kerem Seven, representatives from public institutions and organizations, academics, and citizens. 

The program began with the reading of the National Anthem and a moment of silence, followed by the opening speech of our university's Director of the Culture and Arts Application and Research Center, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zeki Gürel. In his speech titled "Our Love is Turkish: On Language, Poetry, and Love," Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zeki Gürel emphasized the richness of the Turkish language, the deep meaning of poetry, and the place of language in the human soul and collective memory. Stating that Turkish is not only a means of communication but also the strongest carrier of thought, emotion, and cultural transmission, Gürel illustrated the role of poetry in this transmission with examples. 

After the opening speech, the Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism, M. Kerem Seven, took the floor. In his speech, Seven evaluated the place and function of poetry in Turkish cultural history, stating that poetry is not only an individual form of expression but also a powerful cultural element that carries collective memory. Stating that such events contribute to the development of the city's culture, Seven expressed their satisfaction with the continuation of events that bring together Kastamonu's cultural heritage with poetry. 

Our Vice Rector, Prof. Dr. Selahattin Kaymakcı, who delivered the final speech of the program, stated that our University is committed to contributing to society not only through scientific production but also through cultural and artistic activities. Emphasizing that such events are of great importance not only in developing individual aesthetic sensitivity but also in maintaining social solidarity and cultural memory, Kaymakcı stated that they value and support the sustainability of organizations like the "Ilgaz Poetry Evenings." 

After the speeches, the event moved on to the poetry recitation section. The selected poems recited by the participants received great acclaim from the audience. The event concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the participants who recited poems and a group photo session.