A Journey into Gestures, Customs, and Cultural Riches of Turkey Gestures in Turks are very special and specific. When the Turks explain to you how big something is, the left hand turned palm upwards and slightly bent at the elbow, "cross-sectioned" with the right, thus demonstrating the size of what is in question. When they turn their palms up and put all their fingers together by moving them...
The Tradition of Askıda Ekmek in Turkey "Suspended Bread," known as "Askıda Ekmek" in Turkish, is a heartwarming and culturally significant tradition in Turkey. This practice reflects the country's sense of community, compassion, and commitment to minimizing food waste. The concept of Askıda Ekmek involves hanging extra loaves of bread outside one's home or at designated public...
A Journey into Cultural Beliefs Embark on an intriguing exploration into the rich tapestry of superstitions that color everyday life in Turkey. Here, superstition isn't a mere belief; it's a living, breathing aspect of cultural heritage. Witness the meticulous dance with fate as Turks, with a practiced finesse, refrain from handling sharp objects, gracefully navigate around black cats in wide, almost...
A Cultural and Shopping Experience Traditional Village Markets, known as "Pazar Yeri" in Turkish, are integral to Turkey's cultural and economic landscape. These markets are vibrant and lively gatherings in towns and villages throughout the country. Traditional village markets typically occur weekly or biweekly, with the day of the week varying from one place to another. These markets are essential for...
Explore the sacred rhythms of Turkish People The heartbeat of Turkey resonates with the echoes of Islamic traditions, where prayer is a sacred ritual performed through prostration on the humble floor. Cleanliness, a virtue held dear, sets the stage for every mosque and Turkish household. Upon entering, shoes are left at the doorstep, replaced by the comfort of house slippers thoughtfully provided by...
A Reflection of Generosity and Hospitality In Turkey, the act of presenting gifts when visiting someone is deeply ingrained in the culture and signifies a significant facet of Turkish hospitality. This longstanding tradition of gift-giving is a manifestation of the values of generosity, respect, and the recognition of the importance of social connections. It serves as a tangible expression of the...
The Heartwarming Symbolism of Turkish Weddings The Bride Pickup Tradition, also known as "Gelin Alma" in Turkey, is a significant and heartwarming custom within Turkish weddings. This tradition marks the groom's arrival at the bride's home, where he and his close friends and family formally request her hand in marriage and escort her to the wedding venue. The Bride Pickup Tradition holds a...
Weaving History, Art, and Tradition Turkish carpets and rugs are far more than just floor coverings; they are a living testament to Turkey's cultural richness, artistic heritage, and timeless traditions. These intricate creations continue to captivate the world, serving as a bridge between the past and the present, while carrying forward the artistic and cultural legacy of Turkey. Creating a Turkish...
The Heartfelt Splash of Good Fortune Saying goodbye to Turkish friends often involves a unique tradition – they may playfully throw a bucket of water after you. This charming custom, shared with Iran and other Middle Eastern countries, stems from a time when travel was rare and fraught with uncertainties. The act of throwing water was a way to wish travelers a safe and fortunate journey. Today, it...
Turkey's Mystical Dance of Spiritual Unity The tradition of the Whirling Dervishes in Turkey is a captivating and spiritual practice that originates from the Sufi order of Islam, particularly associated with the Mevlevi Order founded by the poet and philosopher Rumi (Mevlana) in the 13th century. This mystical tradition is more than just a performance; it's a profound spiritual journey and a form of...
Symbolism in Bridal Attire Traditional bridal attire often incorporates four symbolic elements: something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. Each of these elements holds a special significance in the wedding tradition: “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, and Something Blue” Something old: This element represents the bride's connection to tradition...
“If there is no woman at a raki table, there is a woman for whom a table was set” One of the loveliest traditions surrounding the consumption of the traditional Turkish alcoholic beverage, Raki, is to knock your glass lightly on the table after toasting in remembrance of someone you wish were present. This gesture shows respect and gratitude for the person being toasted. After the toast, one can...
