Karagöz and Hacivat is a traditional Turkish shadow theatre based on the principle of moving human, animal, or object figures (called tasvir) made from camel or water buffalo hide by attaching them to rods and projecting them onto a white screen using light from behind. A hayali performs the Karagöz. The hayali is both narrator and creator of the performance, …
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 …
Let’s not say impossible; because they exist. The Kipchaks, who spoke Turkic, were like this. Russians called them Polovets, Byzantines Kumans, Hungarians Kun, and the Mongols and Chinese called them Kipchak. The blond Turks themselves used the names Kıpçak or Kıbçak. In Islamic history, they’re also known as Kipchaks. Russian historian Gumilev traces their blondness to Europoid ancestors, suggesting that …
Color plays a pivotal role in Turkish vernacular architecture. The hues chosen for traditional Turkish homes mirror not only aesthetic preferences but also regional materials, climate adaptations, and deep-rooted customs. Widespread across Anatolia, these color palettes enrich our understanding of local identity. Regional Color Stories Aegean & Mediterranean: White & Blue Whitewashed “sugar‑cube” houses, commonly seen in Bodrum and the …
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 …
The Hittites -also known as the Etes in ancient sources- were one of the most significant civilizations of Anatolia, ruling from around 1650 BCE to 1200 BCE. They spoke Hittite and Luwian, members of the Anatolian branch of Indo-European languages, and employed both hieroglyphic and cuneiform scripts. Migrating from the Caucasus in small groups toward the end of the 3rd …
The Michelin Guide 2026 for Türkiye was officially unveiled in December 2025, marking a significant moment for the country’s gastronomic scene. The announcement brought a broader geographic coverage, new starred restaurants, and greater international attention to local cuisine. Key Figures from the 2026 Selection Total restaurants listed: 171 Restaurants with Michelin Stars: 17 Two Michelin Stars: 2 One Michelin Star: …
Ankara and its surrounding areas have been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times. The known history of Ankara stretches back to the Paleolithic Age. With a history spanning approximately 5,000 years, urban life in Ankara is believed to have continued uninterrupted. Its significance, which began due to its position on the ancient Royal Road, continues today as the capital of modern …