Turkish customs are an embodiment of Eastern and Western cultures mix as this great country lies at crossroad of two continents. The tradition of Turkey is based on its long history and gives view of colourful carpet of this country. Each corner of the Turkish life reflects the traditions which are inherent in values, feelings and hospitality of people.”
Hospitality: A Turkish Virtue
The essence of Turkish culture is that it has a very strong sense of hospitality. A guest is considered as a blessing, whereby hosts work hard to entertain them at their best. A traditional Turkish saying encapsulates this sentiment: “Uninvited guests are gods messengers.” Turks share drinks such as Turkish tea or coffee because, when having it, they feel connected.
Turkish Cuisine: A Culinary Extravaganza
The traditional cookery and enjoyment of food are very significant aspects of the nation’s identity in Turkey and other cultures. Such staples as kebabs, mezes and baklava are more than just food; they are embodiments of local history. Feasting during festive occasions can sometimes be very extravagant as family and friends congregate around food that has been carefully prepared for them.
Turkish Weddings: A Festivity of Love and Custom
Turkish weddings always take place in style bringing together ancient traditions and contemporary festivities. The henna night is one of these customs in which the henna patterns are drawn on the bride-to-be’s hand. The act is reported to be lucky and protective for the two. Vibrant music, colorful dances, and community spirit in a marriage makes them not forgettable events revealing jovial side of Turkish people.
Festivals and Celebrations: Commemorating Diversity
The culture of Turkey reflects in its numerous festivals and celebrations. Each celebration from the vibrant Hıdırellez Spring festival to the somber Ramadan has its own traditions. The sacrifice for Kurban Bayramı is typically in the form of animals such as goats and lambs. After slaughtering the animals, they are cooked and shared among the family members, symbolizing the concept of sacrifice, generosity, and empathy.
Turkish Coffee Culture: A Ritual of Connection
To the Turks, Turkish coffee isn’t mere drink; it’s a generational cultural ritual. Turkish coffee is prepared and served following specific procedures, and it promotes serious discussions. The age old custom becomes more interesting by including fortunetelling in such a way that coffee grounds at the bottom of the cup create bonds among people.
Ceramics and Handicrafts: Artistry Preserved Through Generations
Indeed, fine ceramics and crafts made in Turkey are an undisputable proof of creativity that has been transmitted from ancestors to descendants. Turkey’s artistic legacy is evident through its complicated designs of tile and carpet patterns like those shown in the picture below.'); Traditional craftsmanship is more than an artwork, it is an emblem of cultural heritage for most of the communities that practice it.
Hospitality, art of cooking, ritual performances, theatrical expressions–a patchwork of these ancient customs make up the fabric of Turkish people’s traditional ethics. Adopting such practices will lead to realizing what makes Turkey the diverse cultures’ enigma. With time, these enduring customs help in uniting generations for generation to nation, thereby creating a distinct nationality for Turkey.
