Intangible Heritage Values of Türkiye
A Centuries-Old Tradition: Olive Cultivation (2023)
The olive tree dates back millions of years. It is considered a mythical and sacred tree. The relationship between the olive tree and human civilisation has produced an immensely rich, living cultural heritage embedded in the everyday habits of the Mediterranean people.
The olive tree is one of the significant values of Türkiye, mainly when one explores the culture formed around its cultivation. Traditional olive cultivation in Türkiye means traditional knowledge, methods, and practices transmitted for centuries about grafting, pruning, and fertilising “delice” (wild olive tree), picking and harvesting of olives, processing such as preserving and pickling table olives, and extracting olive oil. It also has a vital role in keeping social and cultural identity alive because its bearers, especially in the rural areas, still produce olive and olive oil by traditional methods, which haven’t changed significantly for centuries until today.
Türkiye has developed to become one of the world’s top 5 producers of olives and olive oil. The Mediterranean climate of Türkiye provides ideal conditions for the growth and cultivation of olives, with long, hot summers and mild winters. The region's rich soil and ample sunshine contribute to the high quality and abundant yield of the olives. Additionally, Türkiye's long history and deep-rooted connection to olive cultivation have allowed for the preservation of traditional methods of production, which have been passed down through generations. These traditional methods, which involve hand-picking the olives and using stone mills to extract the oil, not only contribute to the unique flavour and character of Türkiye's olives and olive oil but also help to maintain the social and cultural identity of the rural communities.
Seventy-five per cent of olive trees are located on Türkiye’s Aegean coast. However, key olive growing areas in Türkiye stretch from the Black Sea to the Aegean region, reaching further along the Mediterranean and east into Anatolia proper. Important production locations, among others, are Ayvalık, Akhisar, Mudanya, Edremit Gulf, Orhangazi, İznik, Gemlik, and Yalova. About 700 varieties of olives worldwide, and Türkiye grows between 50 and 80 varieties.
In addition, olive tradition in Türkiye is not limited to production and cultivation; olive oil is also one of the fundamental ingredients of Turkish cuisine and a part of Turkish culture. Vegetables simmered slowly in extra virgin olive oil until the liquid is totally absorbed is a cooking technique in Turkish Cuisine. As a result, this preserves both the flavours and nutritional values of the vegetables. Due to this, vegetables braised in olive oil are classified as one of the healthiest dishes.
Furthermore, you can also explore the olive tree route in Türkiye from this link.
İftar and Its Socio-cultural Traditions (2023)
Ramadan, known as "Ramazan" in Turkish, is a significant religious and cultural event. Ramadan is celebrated as a month of faith and a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and charitable acts. In addition to the religious and cultural significance of Ramadan, it is also a time for families and communities to come together and share meals at the end of a day of fasting. The iftar meal typically starts with dates and water and continues with soups, salads, bread, meat, and desserts. Traditional drinks like ayran, a yoghurt-based beverage, or şerbet, a sweet fruit syrup, frequently go with the meal. The atmosphere during iftar is lively and joyful, with conversations and laughter filling the air as people come together to enjoy the blessings of Ramadan.
The fasting period from sunset to sunrise still regulates most people’s schedules during the holy month, as nights are more lively than usual. In the middle of the night, drummers circulate through the towns and villages to wake the faithful up to prepare sahur, the early-morning meal to be eaten before the fast begins again at sunrise.
Many traditions specific to the holy month of Ramadan, in which fasting is performed, have been transmitted from generation to generation for centuries. İftar, the evening meal to break the fast during the holy month of Ramadan, is one such tradition with profound socio-cultural significance. While uniting families, friends, neighbours, and relatives in a shared experience, the iftar meal extends far beyond eating and embodies devotion, gratitude, generosity, and hospitality. “İftar and its Socio-Cultural Traditions” were inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Iran.
The Craftsmanship of Mother of Pearl Inlay (2023)
Mother-of-pearl inlay, called Sedef Kakma in Turkish, is a stunning craft loved for its beauty and intricate designs. This ancient technique involves carefully placing shiny mother-of-pearl into carved slots on wooden objects. It's used to decorate all sorts of things, from furniture like tables and chairs to everyday items like mirrors and combs. This craft has a long history in Turkish culture and is highly valued for its elegance.
The craft reached its peak during the 17th and 18th centuries in the Ottoman Empire. Artisans would carve patterns into wood and then carefully embed mother-of-pearl into the slots using small wires and hammers. The areas with mother-of-pearl are then smoothed and polished to create a beautiful finish.
Today, this craft is still practised in cities like Kahramanmaraş, Adıyaman, and Gaziantep in Türkiye. Some craftsmen pass down the skill from one generation to the next. The mother-of-pearl inlay is still used to decorate a variety of items, including jewellery boxes, frames, and coffee tables. It's also popular for souvenirs like backgammon sets and ornamental daggers. In recognition of its cultural importance, the craftsmanship of mother-of-pearl inlay has been added to the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023.
Art of Illumination: Tezhip (2023)
Illumination, known as Tezhip in Turkish, is a decorative art widely practised in Türkiye. This art involves intricate gilding, typically using gold paint or leaf, to embellish manuscripts, calligraphy, and miniatures. The addition of gold adds a shiny, reflective quality to the artwork, making it more appealing. Both traditional and modern interpretations of illumination can be found today in various forms. These include manuscripts, calligraphy, and architectural decoration.
In the Western world, illumination was widely used during the Middle Ages to decorate religious texts. Over time, it became more focused on figural illustrations, particularly at the beginning of religious texts.
Among Turks, illumination dates back to the 9th century and reached its peak during the Ottoman era. It was commonly used to adorn handwritten books and calligraphic texts, including the pages of the Qur’an. Specialized illumination artists were tasked with decorating important documents, such as the Sultan's signature.
The practice of illumination has a rich history and cultural significance, which led to its inclusion on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023 on behalf of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Iran, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
Craftsmanship and Performing Art of Mey/Balaban (2023)
The Mey (Balaban) is a traditional woodwind instrument from Türkiye, known for its unique sound and cultural importance in Turkish folk music. It has three different sizes and is used in various musical traditions. Recognized by UNESCO in 2023, it represents the cultural heritage of Türkiye and Azerbaijan. Therefore, “The Craftsmanship and Performing Art of Mey/Balaban” was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of both countries.
Crafted with precision, the instrument embodies the essence of both nations through its melodies, influenced by diverse regions. Its craftsmanship and playing techniques are passed down through generations and taught in educational institutions. Used in solo performances and celebrations, Balaban fosters unity and social memory, inviting everyone to experience its harmonious allure.
Traditional Ahlat Stonework (2022)
Ahlat stonework is a traditional craft rooted in heritage and skilled craftsmanship. It involves extracting, shaping, and ornamenting volcanic Ahlat stones found near Mount Nemrut in Türkiye. Skilled artisans meticulously mine and carve these stones using hand-held tools, creating intricate designs through scraping, relief, and carving techniques.
This craftsmanship is evident in various structures like houses, mosques, mausoleums, and bridges, as well as tombstones, inscriptions, and fountains. The Ahlat cemetery, spanning 210 acres and containing around 9000 graves, is a notable example. Dating back to the 11th to 16th centuries, it features different types of graves with unique designs influenced by Central Asian and Islamic traditions.
The legacy of Ahlat stonework still endures in the 21st century. Its allure reflects the resilience of a heritage deeply rooted in tradition. Traditional Ahlat stonework was recognized and inscribed by UNESCO in 2022 in the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Culture of Çay (Tea), A Symbol of Identity, Hospitality and Social Interaction (2022)
It’s tea o’clock! Turkish tea (çay) is an inseparable part of the local lifestyle, deeply ingrained in Turkish culture and social traditions, emphasizing friendship and hospitality and fostering connections within communities.
Tea arrived in Türkiye from Asia in the 1800s, gaining popularity in the Ottoman palace before spreading to the public during the 20th century. Rize became a leading tea producer, and tea became a beloved part of daily life, enjoyed at any time and in any setting. The Turkish tea culture is rich. Black tea, brewed using various techniques, is the focal point of this culture, with traditional tea glass and teapot craftsmanship adding to its uniqueness. Served in the breakfast, during the day with snacks or sweets, or by itself, Turkish tea is loved and consumed often in the daily life of locals.
The Culture of Çay (Tea) was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage element on behalf of Türkiye and Azerbaijan in 2022. For more information about Turkish tea, check out the Turkish tea route.
Telling Tradition of Nasreddin Hodja (2022)
Nasreddin Hodja, also known as Nasreddin Hoca, is a legendary figure in Turkish folklore and humour. He is also known as Molla Nasreddin, Koja Nasreddin, and Nasreddin Efendi in other countries.
Born in 1208 in Hortu Village of Sivrihisar district of Eskişehir, Türkiye, he is celebrated as a philosopher and master of humour. His wisdom and wit have made him beloved across the Turkic and Islamic world. Nasreddin Hodja's stories typically involve him navigating through various everyday situations with his sharp wit and humour. He often gives valuable life lessons in his stories in a humorous way, encouraging critical thinking.
The telling tradition of Nasreddin Hodja was inscribed in 2022 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
Sericulture and Traditional Production of Silk for Weaving (2022)
Silk production is important in Türkiye. Farmers carefully raise silkworms for the production of premium quality silk. Silk is highly valued for making luxurious fabrics, carpets, and curtains, often used during special occasions such as weddings and funerals.
Historically, Bursa was renowned for its silk industry and it was once the most profitable industry of the city. Silk obtained from cocoons played a major role in Bursa's becoming a textile centre. Today, Bursa still offers a variety of silk products in its markets. Koza Han, a historic silk market dating back to the 15th century, stands as a testament to Bursa's silk trade legacy.
The tradition of sericulture and silk production in Türkiye holds significant cultural value and is recognized by UNESCO alongside other countries like Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, and Iran. Sericulture and the traditional production of silk for weaving was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2022.
Hüsn-i Hat, Traditional Calligraphy in Islamic Art in Türkiye (2021)
Hüsn-i Hat is the art of Islamic calligraphy practised in Türkiye, where artisans meticulously craft Arabic letters with precision and aesthetic finesse. This tradition involves using traditional tools such as reed pens and inkwells to create intricate and beautifully designed scripts.
Hüsn-i Hat extends beyond paper, with calligraphers working on various mediums like leather, stone, and wood to create exquisite designs. Hüsn-i Hat has a rich history dating back centuries. It was often used for writing sacred texts like the Qur'an, poetry, and state correspondence. Nowadays, it continues to be a significant cultural art form in Türkiye, adorning mosques, Turkish baths, and other cultural landmarks.
Hüsn-i Hat showcases the connection between art, spirituality, and cultural expression. It was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021.
Traditional Intelligence and Strategy Game: Mangala/Göçürme (2020)
Mangala is a classic game of intelligence and strategy played on specially crafted boards or improvised setups like pits in the ground. Players strategically distribute pellets made from various materials across the pits, aiming to accumulate the most pellets to win.
The game can be played on boards with different numbers of pits, depending on the number of players, and the duration of the game varies accordingly. Traditional crafts like wood and stone carving, as well as jewellery-making, are intricately connected with Mangala.
Master artisans create both ornate and functional boards and pellets, reflecting traditional worldviews and their artistic skills. Besides its recreational aspect to pass time, Mangala enhances cognitive, motor, and social skills, fostering strategic and creative thinking and patience. This cultural tradition is passed down through generations and holds a valuable place in Turkish society.
Recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage element by UNESCO, Mangala represents a shared heritage of Türkiye, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. This traditional intelligence and strategy game was added to the list in 2020.
The Art of Miniature (2020)
The Turkish art of miniature, called "Minyatür," is a type of detailed painting that was popular in the Ottoman Empire from the 16th to 19th centuries. It shows scenes from history, literature, and daily life, using vibrant colours and intricate patterns. Artists used delicate brushes and natural pigments on paper or parchment. These paintings often had deeper meanings, showing themes like power or spirituality.
These small-scale paintings were mainly used on various surfaces like books and ceramics. but it's also seen in architecture and public spaces. This art form has evolved over time, influenced by Islamic culture and passed down through mentor-apprentice relationships. Artists keep traditional techniques but add their own creativity to fuse tradition with modern themes, such as characters from books and scenes from movies.
In Türkiye and other countries, miniature painting has a long history. In Anatolia, miniature painting was highly valued, especially during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods. The art of miniature is a common heritage of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Iran (Islamic Republic of), and Uzbekistan. It was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2020.
Traditional Turkish Archery (2019)
Traditional Turkish archery is a centuries-old martial art and cultural tradition that has been practised in Türkiye for generations. It involves the use of arrows with feathers and a bow, typically made of wood and animal horn.
This form of archery emphasizes technique, skill, and finesse over brute strength. Traditional Turkish archers often use a thumb release, where the string is drawn using the thumb rather than the fingers. This special technique requires a lot of practice to master.
Historically, Turkish archery played a significant role in warfare, hunting, and ceremonial events. It was an essential part of the Ottoman military training and culture, with skilled archers serving in the Ottoman army.
Traditional Turkish archery was enlisted in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2019.
Heritage of Dede Korkut, Epic culture, Folk tales and Music (2018)
Dede Korkut is a legendary figure in Turkish folklore, known as the central storyteller and narrator of the "Dede Korkut Tales." These epic stories are a collection of oral narratives that have been passed down through generations in Turkish and Turkic cultures.
The tales depict the adventures of heroic figures, tribal conflicts, and the struggle between good and evil. They convey the themes of bravery, honour, loyalty, and wisdom and reflect the values and traditions of Turkic people. Dede Korkut's importance in Turkish culture lies in his role as a symbol of cultural identity and heritage. His stories have been a source of entertainment, moral instruction, and historical insight for centuries. They have also served to strengthen the bonds of community and kinship among people.
In addition to their cultural significance, the Dede Korkut Tales have influenced literature, music, and art in Türkiye and other Turkish-speaking regions. The epics of Dede Korkut are narrated by minstrels and bards accompanied by musical instruments, passing on the tradition through master-apprentice relationships. They continue to be celebrated and studied as an integral part of Turkish folklore and oral tradition. Therefore, the Heritage of Dede Korkut, epic culture, folk tales and music was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan in 2018.
Spring Celebration, Hıdrellez (2017)
Hıdrellez is a traditional spring festival celebrated on May 6th in Türkiye and other Turkic countries. It marks the arrival of spring and is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity.
During Hıdrellez, people gather outdoors to celebrate with various rituals and festivities. They may go for picnics in parks or near the sea, sing and dance traditional songs, and participate in folk games and performances. A common tradition is to write wishes on a piece of paper and tie it to trees or throw it in the sea, symbolizing the renewal of hopes and dreams with the arrival of spring.
Hıdrellez is also associated with various customs and beliefs, including the belief that on this day, the prophet Hızır and the prophet Elijah meet on earth to bring blessings and grant wishes. In 2017, Hıdrellez was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, representing Türkiye and North Macedonia.
Whistled Language (2017)
The whistled language is a remarkable form of communication used by people in certain rural areas, particularly in the Black Sea region. It involves imitating the melodies and tones of spoken Turkish through whistling.
This unique form of communication developed as a way for shepherds and farmers to communicate across long distances, steep mountains, and rugged terrain. By whistling, individuals can convey messages over several kilometers, allowing for efficient communication.
Today, around 10,000 people in Türkiye's Eastern Black Sea Region still speak or understand whistling. Although modern technology has made the whistled language less necessary for practical communication, it remains an important cultural tradition in Türkiye. Efforts are being made to preserve and document this unique form of communication for future generations. Therefore, in 2017, UNESCO recognized the importance of this tradition by inscribing it on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding on behalf of Türkiye.
Flatbread Making and Sharing Culture: Lavaş, Yufka (2016)
Flatbreads are essential to Turkish cuisine and culture, symbolizing hospitality, togetherness, and tradition. Made through age-old methods of mixing flour, water, and salt, then either baked in clay ovens or on griddles (called sac), these breads are shared generously among family and friends during meals and festive gatherings.
Each region of Türkiye has its own variations of flatbreads, ranging from softer to thinner or thicker to chewier. These versatile pieces of bread play a central role in Turkish dishes, serving as wraps for kebabs and veggie recipes. More than just food, flatbreads represent the warmth of shared meals, embodying the spirit of hospitality and community that is deeply ingrained in the Turkish culture.
This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye and Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan in 2016.
Nevruz (2016)
Nevruz is a traditional spring festival celebrated in many countries, including Türkiye, Iran, and Central Asian nations. It marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of the new year. The celebration typically takes place on March 21st, the spring equinox.
Nevruz has deep cultural and historical significance dating back thousands of years. Nevruz festivities often include outdoor gatherings, music, dancing, feasting, and the exchange of gifts. People jump over bonfires as a symbol of purification and renewal, and various rituals are performed to welcome the spring season and bring good fortune for the year ahead. It's a time for communities to come together, celebrate nature's rejuvenation, and honour their cultural heritage. Nevruz rituals promote cultural diversity, tolerance, community solidarity, and peace. Passed down through generations, they ensure the continuity of this vibrant cultural celebration.
Recognized by UNESCO in 2016, Nevruz represents Türkiye and several other countries, highlighting its significance across borders.
Traditional Craftsmanship of Çini-making (2016)
Çini is a traditional Turkish ceramic art form characterized by its intricate designs and vibrant colours. Çini pieces often feature floral motifs, geometric patterns, and scenes from nature.
Çini-making involves the use of clay and glazes to create intricate patterns and designs on ceramic tiles. These tiles are often used to decorate mosques, palaces, and other historical buildings in Türkiye.
The art of çini-making requires meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship, with artisans using traditional tools and techniques to handcraft each tile. First, clay is shaped, lined, dried, and fired in specialised ovens dedicated to çini production. Local customs and beliefs inspire designs. Craftspeople hand draw the outer contours and apply various colours to the surface, and finally, the work is glazed and fired.
This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2016.
Ebru: The Turkish Art of Marbling (2014)
Ebru is a Turkish art form that involves floating dyes on a viscous solution, creating intricate patterns that are then transferred onto paper or fabric. The process requires a delicate touch and precise control of the dyes, as well as specialized brushes and tools.
Ebru artists, apprentices, and practitioners view their art as integral to traditional culture, identity, and lifestyle. The knowledge, skills, and philosophy behind this art are passed down through oral traditions and informal practical training, typically in master-apprentice relationships.
Ebru has a long history in Türkiye, dating back to the 15th century, and it continues to be practised and appreciated as a unique form of artistic expression. This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2014.
Turkish Coffee Culture and Tradition (2013)
Turkish coffee is prepared by boiling finely ground coffee beans with water and sugar in a special pot called cezve. It's known for its rich flavour and thick, frothy texture. The grounds left in the empty coffee cup are often used to tell a person's fortune.
Turkish coffee holds a special place in Turkish culture, with rituals surrounding its preparation and serving. It's often enjoyed with friends and family, accompanied by lively conversation and storytelling. More than just a drink, Turkish coffee is a symbol of hospitality, friendship, refinement, and entertainment. An invitation for coffee among friends is an opportunity for intimate discussions and sharing daily concerns. Beyond casual gatherings, Turkish coffee holds significance in social occasions like engagement ceremonies and holidays.
This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2013.
Mesir Macunu Festival (2012)
The Mesir Macunu Festival takes place annually in Manisa and celebrates the legendary healing properties of Mesir Macunu, an herbal paste popular in the Ottoman era. According to legend, Mesir Macunu was first concocted by a local healer to cure Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent of a mysterious illness.
The Mesir Macunu festival holds a special place in the hearts of Manisa's inhabitants. Every year, from March 21 to 24, the paste is meticulously prepared by a chef and apprentices, using 41 fresh spices and herbs in accordance with traditional practices. The festival includes parades, concerts, and the distribution of Mesir Macunu to the public, symbolizing health and well-being.
This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2012.
Ceremonial Keşkek Tradition (2011)
Keşkek is a traditional Turkish dish made from wheat, meat, and spices, cooked in a large cauldron and shared among the community during special occasions such as weddings and religious festivals.
The preparation of keşkek is a communal effort, often involving several days of cooking and stirring. It's believed to bring blessings and prosperity to those who partake in it. The journey of Keşkek begins with a symbolic act of washing the wheat, accompanied by heartfelt prayers the day before the festivities. The wheat is then carried to a large stone mortar, with lively music. The wheat is hulled and the cauldrons are filled with wheat, chunky pieces of meat, onions, spices, water, and oil. The mixture is simmered throughout the night for a smooth texture. The next morning, the village's strongest youth gather to pound Keşkek with wooden mallets. They are accompanied by the cheering crowd and music. Keşkek gets beaten until noon when the stew thickens.
Keşkek is more than food; it's a festival with music, plays, and invites to neighbouring areas, building community spirit through a shared meal. This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2011.
Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival (2010)
The Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival is an annual event held in Edirne. It is recognized as the oldest continuously held sporting competition in the world. The festival features traditional Turkish oil wrestling, where competitors wear leather pants and douse themselves in olive oil before grappling in the ring. It's a test of strength, skill, and endurance, with participants going for the title of Başpehlivan (chief wrestler) and the prestigious Kırkpınar Golden Belt.
The festival kicks off with a vibrant ceremony led by the patron, the Kırkpınar Ağa, featuring forty bands of lively music. The iconic golden belt is paraded through the city in a grand procession. The master of ceremonies introduces each Pehlivan to the audience. It is followed by the oiling ritual and warm-up exercises, and the wrestling starts.
Kırkpınar oil wrestling is an inclusive tradition, welcoming men from diverse cultures, regions, and ages without discrimination. Rooted in the master-apprentice tradition, all Pehlivans undergo rigorous training. This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2010.This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2010.
Semah, Alevi-Bektaşi Ritual (2010)
Semah is a sacred ritual performed by members of the Alevi and Bektaşi communities as part of their religious ceremonies. It's characterized by circular movements and symbolic gestures that represent spiritual concepts such as unity, love, and enlightenment. Semah is accompanied by music played on traditional instruments and performed in communal gatherings known as cem. One striking feature is the inclusive nature of Semah rituals, with both men and women participating side by side in the ritual.
Semah is rooted in the concept of unity with God within the natural cycle of existence, where people originate from God and eventually return to God. Semah is a way to transmit the Alevi-Bektaşi tradition. All practices and teachings are passed down orally through generations. This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2010.
Traditional Sohbet Meetings (2010)
Sohbet meetings are informal gatherings where people come together to engage in meaningful conversations, share stories, and exchange ideas. These meetings play a vital role in Turkish culture, fostering social connections, intellectual exchange, and the transmission of cultural heritage. Sohbet meetings often take place in tea houses, mosques, or homes, and they provide opportunities for people to connect on a deeper level. The meetings feature music, dances, and plays, with local food, lasting until early morning. Open to men aged 15 or 16 and up, regardless of background, attendees must be from reputable families, trustworthy, respectful to elders, and avoid gambling or drunkenness. This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2010.
Âşıklık (minstrelsy) Tradition (2009)
Âşıks are traditional Turkish poets and musicians who perform epic poems and songs celebrating themes of love, heroism, and moral values. They often accompany themselves on instruments like the saz, a traditional Turkish lute. Âşıklık has a long history in Turkish culture, dating back to ancient times, and Âşıks play a significant role in preserving and transmitting oral traditions and folktales. The âşık's journey begins with a calling in a dream, leading to an extensive apprenticeship in the arts of playing string and percussion instruments, singing, and storytelling. Reciting poems often centred around themes of love, the âşıks use rhymed sentences to elicit more emotions. This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2009.
Karagöz (2009)
Karagöz is a traditional Turkish shadow puppetry art form that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. It involves the manipulation of two-dimensional puppets behind a backlit screen, accompanied by music, dialogue, and storytelling. The main characters, Karagöz and Hacivat, engage in humorous and satirical exchanges that reflect Turkish society and culture. Karagöz performances are often held during religious holidays, weddings, and other festive occasions. The performance begins with the projection of an introductory figure, setting the stage and hinting at the themes of the drama. The usually humorous tales feature key characters like Karagöz and Hacivat, accompanied by a lively cast. The stories are infused with puns and imitations of regional accents and the lead artist skilfully manipulates the puppets to captivate the audience. This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2009.
Arts of the Meddah, Public Storytellers (2008)
Meddahs are traditional Turkish storytellers who perform in public spaces, entertaining audiences with dramatic retellings of folk tales, legends, and historical events. They use gestures and expressions to bring their stories to life, often incorporating humour, suspense, and moral lessons. Meddah performances are a popular form of entertainment for all ages in Türkiye. Historically, meddahs were revered for their ability to enlighten, educate, and entertain. These storytellers graced caravanserais, markets, coffeehouses, mosques, and churches. The meddah's skill seamlessly integrates imitations, jokes, and improvisation, often reflecting contemporary events. Rooted in the mastery of rhetoric, this art form holds great esteem in Türkiye. This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2008.
Mevlevi Sema Ceremony (2008)
Mevlânâ Celâleddîn-i Rûmî, more popularly known as Mevlana, is a notable Sufi, poet, and philosopher. Lived in Konya in the 13th century, he was a well-known and respected figure of Sufism.
The Mevlevi Sema Ceremony is a spiritual practice associated with the Mevlevi Order of Sufism, also known as the Whirling Dervishes. It involves a ritual performed by practitioners known as dervishes, who spin in a trance-like state to achieve spiritual communion with the divine. The ceremony symbolizes the journey of the soul towards God, with each movement representing a stage of spiritual awakening and enlightenment. Traditionally, dervishes underwent 1,001 days of reclusive training in Mevlevi houses (mevlevihane). Here, they immersed themselves in ethical teachings, codes of conduct, and beliefs, engaging in prayer, religious music, poetry, and dance. Upon completing their training, they returned to their daily lives while remaining members of the order.
This tradition was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on behalf of Türkiye in 2008.
