Discover the curious status of the Fez in Turkey, where its use was technically banned due to its Ottoman Empire associations in the 1920s
In Turkey, wearing a Fez is technically illegal due to its association with the Ottoman Empire, which was banned in the 1920s. However, the law is rarely enforced, and it is still possible to find people wearing a Fez in the cities of Turkey. Although you likely won’t be arrested for wearing a Fez, you may receive some odd looks from the locals. The Fez is an integral part of Turkish history and culture, so why some people may be taken aback by its presence is understandable. It is important to remember that despite its illegality, the Fez still holds a special place in the hearts of many Turks, and its presence should be respected.
