When travelers walk through today’s Istanbul -past Hagia Sophia, the Land Walls, or the quiet streets of Fatih– it is easy to forget that this city’s most dramatic transformation was once witnessed not by its conquerors, but by a defeated Greek aristocrat who chose to write rather than flee. His name was Michael Critobulus of Imbros. Writing only a few years …
Just like the lush nature, vibrant music, and spirited people of the Black Sea region, its cuisine is also one of a kind. The area’s unique geography and climate have shaped a distinct culinary identity. Ingredients like corn, beans, collard greens, regional herbs, and of course, anchovies, form the backbone of Black Sea cooking. Hınkal Resembling oversized dumplings, Hınkal is …
With its deep-rooted cultural richness, Turkey projects many Ramadan traditions and values into the present day. As the month of Ramadan begins, we have listed enduring Ramadan customs -passed down from generation to generation- that reinforce social solidarity, strengthen communal unity, and contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage. Mahyas on Mosque Minarets Although the tradition of lighting oil lamps …
Reaching the tomb of Yavaşça Şahin Paşa -who famously marched ships over land during the conquest of Istanbul– is nearly as difficult as marching ships over land itself. As the roads rose over the years and the mosque courtyard shrank, it has become almost impossible to reach his grave. Yavaşça Şahin Paşa (Mehmet Ali Paşa) is one of the lesser-known …
With its elegant long legs and graceful neck, the crane is a bird known across nearly every corner of the world, embodying different meanings in different cultures. In Anatolia, however, the crane has come to symbolize something deeply rooted in the collective heart of the land: abundance, prosperity, and sacredness. The Cranes of Turkey: Rare Yet Revered Although there are …
The concept of time is both directly relevant to human life and broad enough to evade universal definitions. Our perception of time relates to the dimensions we interact with, creating multiple and differing understandings. Muslims ground their understanding of time in the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Let’s discover Saatnâme: manuals of Islamic timekeeping. God’s swearing by “time” in the Qur’an …
Throughout history, Turkish culture has left a lasting mark on European art. But it was during the 18th century that a particular fascination with Ottoman life, customs, and daily practices surged in Europe, inspiring countless works across classic music, painting, and literature. Among the most remarkable of these are operas composed by prominent European musicians, who, captivated by the mystique …
Every year on July 1st, Turkey observes Cabotage Day: a commemoration that many overlook or misunderstand. While most associate it with simple maritime festivities or boat races, the roots of this national day dig deep into Turkey’s struggle for sovereignty and economic independence. Cabotage Day is far more than a nautical celebration; it is the embodiment of Turkey’s reclaiming of its …
Traditional sports shaped by Turkish culture are the result of long-standing practices that reflect our history and values. One of the most iconic of these is atlı cirit (equestrian javelin); a mounted javelin game that blends physical mastery with honor and heritage. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique sport: Roots in Central Asia Atlı cirit originated during …
One of the many ways people have expressed their aesthetic sense throughout history is through the art of mosaic. Mosaic art involves decorating surfaces by assembling small pieces of different colors and shapes. The history of mosaics stretches back to ancient times. In the Sumerian city of Uruk, wall coverings resembling mosaics from the 3rd millennium BCE have been found. …