Culture Of Turkey
Turkey occupies an extraordinary crossroads between Europe and Asia, both geographically and culturally. Strategically straddling the Bosphorus Strait, this nation has served for millennia as a bridge between continents. Istanbul (formerly Constantinople) is literally in two continents, and Anatolia’s position has made Turkey an intercontinental mosaic of civilizations. From the ancient Hittites and Greeks to the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans, each era left visible marks on Turkish soil. The cultural landscape is layered like a palimpsest: you might roam Roman ruins in Ephesus, Byzantine mosaics in Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, Seljuk mosques in Konya, and grand Ottoman palaces in Bursa. This rich heritage is often described as a tapestry (or “palimpsest”) of cultures – each civilization has rewritten the page, yet earlier layers remain readable. In short, Turkey’s identity is deeply rooted in its complex history as well as its unique geography.
That blend of histories creates a Turkish culture that is distinct from either purely European or purely Asian identity. Locally varied traditions (like distinct regional music or cuisines) coexist with the unifying influence of the modern Republic. For example, many villages prize local folk dances or cheese-making techniques that differ from town to town. After the founding of the Republic in 1923, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk promoted a national Turkish culture and modernization, but regional customs and languages still flavor daily life. In short, Turkey is not easily categorized as just “European” or “Asian”; it has forged a hybrid identity that draws on both worlds.
Geographically, Turkey is transcontinental: about 3% of its land (East Thrace) is in Europe and 97% (Anatolia) in Asia. Culturally, the answer is similarly mixed. Parts of Turkey have strong links to Europe (for instance, modern clothes styles and pop music in urban areas), while other parts remain close to Asian or Middle Eastern traditions. One might say Turkey truly “resides on the fence between Europe and Asia.” Indeed, this location has made it both a barrier and a bridge. For centuries the Bosphorus Strait acted as a political boundary, but it also allowed ideas, religions, and trade to flow between continents. Today, most Turks see themselves as a unique combination – part East, part West – and this question of identity is accepted as a defining feature rather than a problem.
The Soul of Turkey: Core Cultural Values and Philosophy
At the heart of Turkish culture are certain values that shape everyday life. Three pillars often stand out: family unity, hospitality, and respect for others (especially elders). Each is woven into Turkish interactions and social expectations.
The Pillar of Society: Understanding Turkish Family Values
For most Turks, family (aile) is the main social unit. Children grow up with the expectation that family bonds extend beyond the nuclear household. It is common for several generations to live close by – sometimes under one roof – and for families to see each other frequently. Parents often continue to care for their children into adulthood, just as children are expected to look after their aging parents. This strong collectivist orientation means that personal decisions, like career or marriage, are usually considered in the context of the family’s welfare. Even in cities, many young people stay connected to village or provincial kin, and siblings often remain close throughout life.
How Are Elders Respected in Turkey? The Concept of ‘Saygı’
Closely tied to family is the idea of saygı, or respect. Turks are taught from childhood that elders and authority figures deserve high honor. For example, any older relative or neighbor is greeted politely and often cared for by younger family members. It is customary to address elders with formal titles and treat their opinions with deference. An everyday example: on public transport, younger people commonly stand to offer their seat to an older passenger (especially elderly women). At home, the oldest family member traditionally has the final word in decisions. This respect extends beyond the family to teachers, government officials, and even guests. In short, deference to elders is a bedrock value – teaching children “younger ones honor the wisdom of their seniors.”
The Art of Welcoming: What is Turkish Hospitality (Misafirperverlik) Really Like?
Hospitality is often cited as Turkey’s most famous cultural trait. Turks take pride in being good hosts (misafirperverlik). As one cultural guide puts it, “the concept of hospitality… is woven into the very fabric of Turkish culture”. Guests – even unexpected ones – are treated with great generosity. It is common that if someone visits your home, you will be offered strong tea or Turkish coffee, sweet pastries or fruit, and even a full meal. Many households still follow the old proverb, “Kapı misafiri, Tanrı misafiri” (an unexpected guest is a guest from God). In practice, this means a traveler might turn up at a stranger’s door and be invited inside; refusals are often considered rude.
On a smaller scale, hospitality shows up in simple rituals. You will almost always be offered a tulip-shaped glass of strong black tea (çay) the moment you sit down. Not taking that tea or coffee can seem impolite. Hosts usually give generous helpings and will refill empty glasses or plates until the guest politely says they are full. Turkish people also love to boast about their hospitality; travelers often remark not on monuments but on “the warmth of the Turkish people” first. A famous Turkish saying goes, “Bir fincan kahvenin kırk yıl hatırı vardır” – “coffee has a memory of forty years” – meaning an act of hospitality or friendship is remembered for decades.
National Pride, Atatürk’s Legacy, and the Modern Republic
In the public ethos, pride in the modern Turkish Republic is another strong thread. Almost every Turk respects the founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and the reforms he introduced in the 1920s and 1930s. Atatürk’s vision (often called Kemalism) aimed to make Turkey a secular, democratic nation. He separated religion from the government through new laws (laiklik), changed the alphabet to Latin characters, and pushed for modernization and education. These changes are still commemorated each year on Republic Day (October 29). As a result, most Turks feel a strong sense of national pride in being citizens of a unique, forward-looking nation that bridges East and West. This pride can be seen in school curricula, national monuments, and frequent expressions like “Ne mutlu Türk’üm diyene” – “How happy is the one who says ‘I am a Turk’.”
Social Fabric: Family, Relationships, and Daily Life
Beyond core values, day-to-day Turkish life reflects these principles. Home and personal relationships are central, and certain social rituals mark life stages.
The Turkish Family Structure: Collectivism and Community
As noted, Turkish families are often more collective than Western ones. Extended relatives are considered part of the “inner circle.” Adult children may continue living with or very near their parents, and families traditionally eat meals together. Even when young people live in big cities on their own, they tend to stay very connected to their home villages or townships and visit frequently. This community orientation means people share responsibilities: for example, if a family member is sick or struggling, many relatives pitch in to help.
This emphasis on family also means individual decisions often involve consultation with relatives. For instance, moving abroad or changing careers might be discussed with parents and uncles. Marriage especially is seen as a family matter. When a couple intends to marry, their families become involved from the start in planning and blessings. According to custom, the groom’s family formally asks the bride’s parents for permission (kız isteme ceremony) as a first step in a traditional engagement.
The family is the unit that provides social security, identity, and support. Elders in the family are cared for, and major life events (weddings, births, funerals) are community affairs. Even among urban, educated Turks, filial piety and regular family gatherings remain strong. In rural areas, families are still very large and interdependent. In short, Turkey’s social fabric is woven from tightly-knit households, where the family’s reputation and honor are paramount.
Rites of Passage: Engagements and Traditional Turkish Weddings
Marriage customs in Turkey combine legal, religious, and festive elements. A proper wedding sequence might include a formal proposal ceremony and henna night (kına gecesi), followed by the actual wedding day. In kız isteme, the groom’s closest male relatives visit the bride’s home in formal attire. Tea and Turkish coffee are served, then the groom’s father asks for the bride’s hand. If the bride’s family agrees, this leads to setting an engagement date.
A few days before the wedding, the bride’s friends and relatives host the henna night. The bride sits on a decorated chair, wearing red and having henna applied to her palms (symbolizing fertility and happiness). Young women dance and sing; often an elder woman presses a gold coin into the henna paste on the bride’s hand for luck. This ritual marks the bride’s transition to married life.
Finally, the wedding day itself usually has two parts: a civil ceremony and optionally a mosque ceremony. Legally, every marriage must be registered by the state. Many couples then have a religious blessing in a mosque (for Muslims) or church, although this is a personal choice. The wedding party is celebratory: family dances the halay folk dance, a lavish meal is shared, and the newlyweds receive gold jewelry from guests (a gift of good fortune). Throughout, the families on both sides remain very involved, sometimes helping pay costs and certainly setting expectations for behavior. Traditional weddings emphasize collectivism: gifts are communal (e.g. trays of sweets) and guests often bring something for everyone, reflecting the view that marriage is not just two individuals but joining of families.
In sum, Turkish weddings can last two or three days and involve many rituals unfamiliar to outsiders. The bride’s and groom’s families typically collaborate on everything from the guest list to the entertainment. The wedding often takes place at a marriage hall or hotel; men usually celebrate in one room, women in another, a legacy of older social norms (though unisex celebrations are now common). Guests receive names of future grandchildren carved in almonds, and weeping on the bride’s dress before it is thrown can symbolize good luck. It’s a colorful, emotional affair that reinforces community bonds. Many foreigners who marry Turks find themselves gently enveloped by the family as soon as an engagement is announced – strangers at first, but quickly treated like kin.
Modern Romance: What is Dating Like in Turkey?
Dating norms in Turkey vary widely by region and background. In big cities like Istanbul or Ankara, young people date much as in Western countries – meeting in cafés or bars, going to movies or concerts. Many Turkish youth even meet online. However, there are still cultural expectations. For many families, especially outside the largest cities, courtship is serious: a young couple that dates usually does so with the intention of marriage. Casual hooking up or cohabitation before marriage remains rare and often frowned upon. If a couple becomes official (e.g. announces their engagement), relatives are informed and invited to offer advice and financial help.
Respect and modesty often govern early dating. It is less common for young men and women to openly flirt in public, especially in conservative towns. Brides often come from the expectation of purity (some families still require a virginity certificate, though this is controversial). In secular families, girls and boys might socialize more freely, but couples generally still guard their own honor and the family’s reputation. Ultimately, dating in Turkey blends modern norms (dinner or movie dates, public outings) with traditional oversight: if it looks serious, an introduction to the parents usually follows soon after.
Religion and Beliefs in Turkey: A Secular State with Deep Roots
Turkey’s official identity is secular, yet its population is predominantly Muslim. Understanding the Turkish approach to religion means appreciating both the secular state ideology (laiklik) and the deep historical role of Islam.
Understanding “Laiklik”: Is Turkey a Secular Country?
Legally, Turkey is one of the world’s oldest secular states. After the fall of the Ottoman Empire in 1923, Atatürk’s republican reforms explicitly removed Islam as the state religion. By the 1930s, secularism (laiklik) was enshrined in the constitution and became one of the foundational pillars of the state. In practice, this meant that mosques and religion were taken out of politics: for example, religious courts were abolished and civil marriage was made mandatory.
Of course, laiklik in Turkey has a different nuance than “separation of church and state” in the U.S. The state still organizes and oversees mosques through the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet), which pays imams and regulates sermons. But religion is supposed to be a private affair: you can’t make laws that favour one religion or the other. Public life is generally secular – for instance, in public schools and institutions religion is taught scientifically, and Atatürk’s portrait appears alongside all presidents and in classrooms (reflecting his quasi-secular nationalism). In short, Turkey’s laws guarantee secularism, but the majority Muslim identity means that religion still influences society.
The Role of Islam in Daily Life
Despite secular governance, Islam is woven into the daily rhythms of many Turks. About 95% of the population identify as Muslim (primarily Sunni), and the heritage of Ottoman Islam is strong in culture. Across cities and villages you will hear the calls to prayer (adhan) wafting from mosque loudspeakers five times a day. People often start and end meals with “Bismillahirrahmanirrahim” (“In the name of God”) and frequently say “Maşallah” (“God has willed it”) when praising someone, to ward off envy. Many Turks fast during the holy month of Ramadan (Ramazan), so even secular city workers will alter their schedules or hold late-night meals (iftar) after sunset. Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr (Ramazan Bayramı) and Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayramı) are widely observed in ways similar to other Muslim countries, with family gatherings, special prayers, and charity.
Outside of prayer and fasting, many aspects of Islamic culture subtly pervade etiquette. For example, eating with the right hand and not wasting food has roots in the Prophet’s teachings (and is mentioned in etiquette sources). Still, Turkey is not an “Islamic country” in the sense of having religious law; most Turks see secular governance and Muslim faith as compatible.
What is the Main Religion in Turkey?
Islam is by far the dominant religion. Official figures say around 99% of Turks register as Muslim (mostly Sunni), though surveys indicate perhaps 95% actively identify as such. The remaining few percent include Alevis (a mystical branch of Shi’a Islam perhaps 10-20% of the population) and very small numbers of Christians and Jews. Historically Turkey had large Greek Orthodox and Armenian communities, and in cities like Istanbul and İzmir one can still find a handful of Greek Orthodox, Armenian, and Jewish families. Today there are roughly a few hundred thousand Christians (various denominations) and about 30,000 Jews, most in Istanbul. Overall, Turkey’s society is overwhelmingly Muslim, which shapes the cultural backdrop, but the state’s neutrality on religion means there is freedom (in principle) for those minorities to worship.
What is the Role of Islam in Daily Life in Turkey?
Islamic practice in daily life varies. Some Turks are very observant – praying five times, reading the Quran, etc. Others are culturally Muslim but not religiously strict, perhaps drinking alcohol or ignoring certain taboos. In practice, you will see men at noon prayer in the mosques, mothers covering their heads (or not), and neighborhoods that revolve around mosque schedules. For example, in conservative towns evening cafes will be closed in Ramadan’s last hour so families can prepare iftar. But many Turks drink tea or coffee without issue, and secular cafes operate normally. In short, religion is visible (mosques, Qur’an on shelves, Muslim names) but rarely enforced by law. It is woven into the social fabric rather than imposed by the state.
Religious Diversity: Alevi, Christian, and Jewish Communities
While 90%+ of Turks are Muslim, Turkey does have longstanding religious minorities. The largest minority Muslim group is the Alevis: an Islamic sect with distinct rituals (often more mystical, with community gatherings called cem). Alevis are estimated at around 15-25% of the population. They are officially recognized but have historically had tensions with the Sunni majority. Christians (primarily Armenian Apostolic, Greek Orthodox, and Syriac Orthodox) number a few hundred thousand. Most non-Muslim communities are centered in Istanbul, Mardin, and a few other areas. Jewish Turks are mostly Sephardic and few in number (~30,000). While minorities enjoy constitutional protection, in practice they are small and have largely assimilated.
Are There Many Christians or Jews in Turkey?
No, the populations are quite small. For perspective, before World War I Turkey had millions of Christians (Greek, Armenian, etc.). After the population exchange of 1923 and later emigrations, only tiny remnants remain. Today, Turkey counts maybe half a million Christians (out of 85 million people) and a few dozen thousand Jews. Istanbul still has historic churches and synagogues – a few Greek Orthodox churches (Hagia Sophia was once one), a Patriarchate, Jewish synagogues (like Ahrida and Neve Shalom), and Armenian churches – but congregations are mostly elderly. So Turkey is not religiously homogenous historically, but today it is overwhelmingly Muslim by number.
Sufism and the Mystical Path: The Story Behind the Whirling Dervishes
One of Turkey’s most mesmerizing traditions is the whirling dervishes ritual (Sema) of the Mevlevi Order. This is a form of meditative prayer developed by the followers of the 13th-century poet and mystic Rumi (Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi) in Konya. During a Sema ceremony, dervishes wearing tall hats and white flowing robes spin in circles to music as a form of spiritual devotion. The whirling represents the soul’s ascent towards God: as one travels inward and transcends the ego, one “turns toward the truth” and finds unity with the divine. Rumi himself said the turning of the dervishes mirrored the rotation of the planets – each dancer’s whirling a small reflection of cosmic motion. Today, whirling dervish performances are held as both a cultural event and a form of worship. The Mevlevi Sema is so iconic that UNESCO inscribed it as Intangible Heritage (2008). Seeing these silent, white-clad figures spin is often described as witnessing the spiritual soul of Turkey.
Common Customs, Superstitions, and Traditions
Turkey’s daily life is sprinkled with customs both charming and mystical, many of which surprise foreign visitors. Some are simply friendly gestures, others are folkloric beliefs.
What is Turkish Culture Famous For? Key Traditions at a Glance
Certain symbols and rituals are widely recognized as “Turkish” abroad. For example:
- Turkish tea and coffee: The ritual of offering tea is universal, and Turkish coffee (served thick in small cups) carries many stories.
- Hammam (Turkish bath): centuries-old steam bathhouses where people cleanse and relax (described below).
- Evil eye amulet (nazar boncuğu): ubiquitous blue-and-white glass beads meant to ward off envy (see below).
- Whirling dervishes and Sufi rituals (as above).
- Odyssey of kebabs and baklava in cuisine (explored below).
- Folk dances and costumes like the red-hatted Halay from the east or the baggy Zeybek trousers of the Aegean (each region has a signature).
- Ramadan traditions: late-night meals, sharing sweets for Eid, and oil-lamp decorations in the evenings.
These practices make Turkish culture vivid. They blend influences from Anatolian villages, Ottoman courts, and even nomadic Turkmen steppe life. In many parts of Turkey, villagers will still greet guests with a twirling of the hands signifying “goodbye”, or expect children to kiss an elder’s hand in respect. In short, from the heart to the home to the night sky, Turkish daily life is rich with meaning and ceremony.
The Nazar Boncuğu: The Real Meaning of the Turkish Evil Eye
One of the most famous symbols is the nazar boncuğu, the blue eye-shaped amulet meant to protect against the “evil eye.” The belief is that when someone looks at you with envy or excessive admiration, it can bring misfortune. To ward this off, people often say “Maşallah” (praising God) when complimenting. The glass eye amulet itself is hung on houses, cars, baby cradles, or pinned on children’s clothes. It has become almost a national icon – you’ll see it even on keychains and souvenirs.
This isn’t superstition so much as preventive charm: Turks give nazar beads as gifts to show caring. One guide notes that “you’ll notice blue eye-shaped amulets everywhere… These ‘nazar boncuğu’ are given as gifts to protect against the evil eye.” For example, if a woman compliments another’s newborn baby, she might immediately say “Maşallah” and offer the nazar bead as a sign of good wishes. In essence, the boncuğu isn’t worshipped; it’s simply a cultural tool to keep bad luck away.
What is the Significance of the Evil Eye (Nazar Boncuğu) in Turkey?
Culturally, the nazar symbolizes care. It shows that Turks attribute fortune to both hard work and to divine favor – and they believe humans can inadvertently upset that balance. The intense cultural emphasis on the nazar reflects a blend of superstition and tradition: even secular Turks will often keep an eye amulet at home or tell a newlywed “Don’t step on bread!” (another taboo) when passing through the door. In modern Turkey, the symbol is ubiquitous – a tourist might remark that every carpet shop or coffee cup seems to feature that blue eye. It signifies the old idea of the “jealous gaze” and the community’s response to it, a folk practice that has survived in everyday life despite modernization.
The Turkish Bath Ritual: What is a Hammam Experience Like?
The Turkish hammam (public bath) is a centuries-old social and hygienic institution. A visitor’s experience typically unfolds like this: first, you enter a warm soğukluk room (dressing room) and change into a pestemal (light cotton wrap). Then you move into a hotter steam room (sıcaklık) – once on marble slabs – to sweat and relax. After a few minutes, an attendant (tellak for men, natır for women) invites you to lie on the heated marble stone (göbek taşı). There you receive a vigorous scrub and soap massage – sometimes with bubbles like a foam party – intended to exfoliate and cleanse. This can be surprising the first time, but it’s considered deeply refreshing. Afterwards, you rinse in cooler water pools or showers and may enjoy a final soap massage or oil massage. By the end, one feels not only cleaned but rejuvenated.
Hammams are as much about relaxation as cleanliness. Traditionally, people would use the hammam before weddings or major festivals to prepare. Even today, going to the hammam is often a leisurely occasion: women gather for spa-day talk, and men banter over soap. Many historic city hammams (some built by architect Mimar Sinan) still operate, and while they have modernized their facilities, they preserve the same core ritual. It’s a chance to step out of daily life, and it remains a uniquely Turkish tradition where conversation and laughter often mingle with the steam.
From Knocking on Wood to Spilling Water: Common Turkish Superstitions
Everyday Turkish life is also seasoned with small superstitions. Some well-known ones include:
- Knocking on wood (tahtaya vurmak): After speaking of good luck, people quickly knock on any wooden surface or pinch their earlobe to prevent jinxing it. Often “Maşallah” is also spoken.
- Lead pouring (kurşun dökme): When someone is very ill or believed cursed, an old custom is to melt lead and pour it into water; interpreting the shapes is thought to dispel the curse.
- Tossing water for safe travel: Before someone embarks on a journey, it’s common to toss a bit of water after them over the shoulder as a blessing for safety (like a reverse wave). This symbolic act is meant to wish them well on the road.
- Throwing bread away: Bread is regarded as sacred (“ekmek, kimseye muhtaç etmez” – bread never leaves one hungry). It is considered very unlucky and disrespectful to throw bread on the ground or trash, lest one harm one’s fortune.
- Bird/Snake omens: If a magpie chirps at your window or a snake appears in your path, some Turks will spit (or pretend to) three times to ward off bad luck.
- Covering one’s face in a photo: Many older Turks are shy about having their photo taken; if a shutter clicks, they may try to hide their face to avoid being captured.
These practices may seem quaint, but they reveal a belief in unseen forces. Most Turks observe them lightheartedly: one might laugh while pinching an earlobe after praising a child, but very few ridicule the notion entirely. In short, superstitions are part of the cultural tapestry – odd, perhaps, to outsiders, but familiar and comforting to locals.
The Definitive Guide to Social Etiquette in Turkey
For a traveler, knowing local etiquette is crucial. Turkish social norms are warm but have clear expectations. Below are some key tips.
First Impressions: Greetings, Handshakes, and Honorifics
The typical greeting depends on context. On first meeting, most people offer a handshake. Among strangers or business acquaintances, a handshake with steady eye contact conveys respect. However, many Turks are also quite tactile and expressive with friends and family. Among close relations, the most common greeting is a kiss on each cheek (starting with the left) – men may kiss women or men who are close friends or relatives. Elders are always greeted first. A younger person might kiss an elder’s right hand and touch it to their own forehead as a special sign of respect. You will often hear titles: for example, calling a man Ahmet Bey or a woman Fatma Hanım (Bey = Mr./Sir, Hanım = Miss/Mrs.), even when using first names. This shows politeness.
As noted earlier, a handshake might not be used if a woman is very religious; in those cases, stand with arms folded as a respectful nod. In some contexts, married women are expected not to initiate contact with strange men, though modern urban etiquette is more relaxed. Overall, a simple rule of thumb: if you’re unsure, mirror the other person (offer a handshake if they do, bow head slightly if they bow slightly). A bright smile and leaning in slightly is always welcome. Remember to say “Merhaba” (hello) or “Selam” (hi), or even “Günaydın” (good morning) in the morning – Turks appreciate any effort to speak Turkish greetings.
In short: stand when someone enters, greet elders first, use a handshake or cheek-kissing as appropriate, and use polite titles (Bey/Hanım) with surnames or first names. Addressing someone as “hoca” (teacher) or “başkan” (boss) can also be respectful in certain settings. Avoid last names unless invited to use them. And remember, it is considered rude not to at least shake hands or nod politely when meeting someone new. If a family member introduces you, answer with similar warmth and attention.
Dress Code and Modesty: What Should I Wear When Visiting Turkey?
Dress norms in Turkey lean towards modesty, but vary by region. In large cities like Istanbul or Ankara, people dress much like in Southern Europe: jeans, skirts, shorts are common, especially in summer. However, in smaller towns and conservative areas, tight or very short clothing may attract stares. As a visitor, it’s wise to pack clothes that cover shoulders and knees. Women do not have to wear headscarves (in fact 37% of Turkish women do not wear one), but they are expected to cover up in religious sites (see below) and many conservative areas. Men should avoid overly baggy sleeveless vests and short shorts in public (except at the beach). When in doubt, err on the modest side in villages and when visiting families.
Muslims pray in mosques, but tourists may visit most mosques outside of prayer times. If you do enter a mosque (like the Blue Mosque in Istanbul), you must remove your shoes at the door. Socks are fine, and often plastic shoe bags are provided. Both men and women should cover their knees and shoulders. Women should also cover their hair with a scarf – most tourist mosques will lend wraps at the entrance. Avoid wearing a tight skirt or shorts above the knee. Do not enter when a service is in progress (the mosque may display a sign or have someone at the door). Once inside, keep quiet, switch phones to silent, and walk calmly. Pointing your feet at the altar is considered extremely rude, so sit cross-legged or keep legs behind you. Never address prayer issues there – respect the sanctity of the place.
Many mosques in Turkey function as cultural landmarks, so many people visit them much like historical sites. Still, treat them as sacred: no loud talking, no taking non-permitted photos (in some mosques cameras must stay off), and no eating. If you are with a local, following their lead is wise.
Dining Etiquette: Rules for Eating in a Restaurant or Home
Meal-time in Turkey is social. Whether in a home or restaurant, a host will often invite you to eat with them. If you visit a Turkish home, expect to remove your shoes at the entrance and sometimes wear provided slippers. Bring a small gift (like chocolates or flowers) as a courtesy.
At the table, certain behaviors are frowned upon. Turks generally don’t blow their nose or pick their teeth at the table – these acts are considered rude (do them in private if needed). It’s also impolite to keep your feet on display, so keep your feet hidden under the table. If you are right-handed, use your right hand for eating (the left hand is associated with cleaning). Meals often come with multiple shared dishes (meze or family-style portions), so using serving spoons or bread to take food from common plates is normal. Don’t start eating until everyone is served (and it’s polite to wait for the host to invite you to begin). During the meal, the host may insist you try this or that dish – it’s polite to take a little of most things, even if you don’t intend to finish it.
A Turkish phrase to remember: after eating, one common compliment is “Elinize sağlıklı!” (literally “health to your hands”), meaning “Thank you for cooking.” Saying this to your host shows gratitude for the meal. Also, in restaurants, it’s customary that the host (person who invited or paid) does the ordering, and diners usually finish all the food on their plate out of respect for the cook.
If you are invited to eat in a Turkish home, dress neat (women often wear a dress or skirt, men clean and casual). Arrive on time (Turks are generally punctual for meals). Remove your shoes. At the table, let elders eat first. It is polite to say “Afiyet olsun” to each person (like “enjoy your meal”) when someone eats from a shared dish. Don’t rush – meals can be leisurely, especially lunch or dinner with family. Allow the host to serve you; try a bit of everything offered. When you leave, thank them and say “Ellerine sağlık” (health to your hands) to the cook. In the end, you will have not only eaten but experienced an important Turkish tradition – sharing food and conversation.
Public displays of affection (PDA) are somewhat delicate in Turkey. Holding hands is generally fine for all couples in modern cities, especially among the young. You will see couples strolling arm in arm in Istanbul parks or walking along the coast. However, passionate kissing or intimate hugging in public is less common outside big metropolitan areas. In conservative neighborhoods or smaller towns, overt PDA may draw disapproving looks. Among close friends (same gender), hugs and cheek-kisses are very common; among couples, modesty is expected in mixed company.
In other words, be mindful: a brief kiss on the cheek between spouses or hand-holding is normal, even expected; but fervent kissing or cuddling on a park bench is not. Bars and clubs are more relaxed, but in family restaurants or mosques even holding hands can be frowned on. When in doubt, watch the local couples. Always remember that Turkey is officially secular but socially conservative in many places. Showing respect for local norms means balancing affection with discretion.
The Art of Giving and Receiving Gifts
Gift-giving in Turkey can be an intricate gesture. If invited to someone’s home, bringing a modest gift (flowers, sweets, or a bouquet for the host’s wife) is appreciated. Wrap presents neatly if you can, though elaborate gift wrap is not mandatory. When giving (or receiving) something, present it with your right hand or both hands together (using the left hand alone can be seen as a bit disrespectful). For example, if handing something to an elder or to a family member, do so with a slight bow and both hands.
Turks also give gifts spontaneously to show affection – a friend might hand you a little box of Turkish delight or an amulet when you leave. Do not open a gift immediately in front of the giver unless you are told to; many Turks will wait and open it in private out of politeness. Finally, avoid gifts that might embarrass the recipient: for instance, don’t give a woman a white or yellow rose (these have negative connotations), and in general avoid anything with religious symbols unless you are certain of their beliefs. Most importantly, the thoughtfulness of the gift is what counts more than its price.
Tipping in Turkey: Is it Customary and How Much?
Tipping in Turkey is not mandatory but is a common courtesy for good service. In restaurants, if a service charge is not already added, leaving around 10% of the bill is typical, especially in mid-range and upscale places. For example, if your total is 100 lira, giving 10–15 lira to the server in cash is polite. At cafes and fast-food places, rounding up or just leaving small change is fine. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or adding a few lira is appreciated (for example, if the ride is 18 lira, giving 20 lira). Hotel staff, bellhops, and cleaning staff may be tipped a small amount (a couple of lira for luggage, 5–10 lira per day for housekeeping).
The key is to tip discreetly and in cash. If the service charge appears on the receipt, tipping extra is optional. Tour guides or drivers often expect a tip if they do a good job (some say around 50–100 lira for a day’s tour). The cultural atlas notes that for restaurant service, 5–10% is normal (up to 15% at high-end spots). In short, tipping in Turkey is about showing appreciation, not a rigid rule; the amount can be adjusted to the level of service.
A List of “Don’ts”: What is Considered Rude in Turkey?
To summarize some critical taboos and faux pas:
- Pointing with the left hand or using only the left hand to eat or to give money is considered impolite. (Always prefer the right hand or both hands together.)
- Exposing the sole of your shoe or foot to someone is very rude. Sit cross-legged or tuck your feet under you in company.
- Snapping fingers or beckoning someone with a curled finger is considered offensive. [In the Communictions guide, snapping and some gestures are discouraged.]
- Blowing your nose or picking your teeth at the table is frowned upon. Excuse yourself to do such things.
- Throwing away or stepping on bread is a serious taboo. If a piece falls, pick it up and kiss it.
- Refusing hospitality too bluntly is impolite. It’s better to say “Thank you, I’ve had enough” (rather than a flat “no”) when offered tea or another cup of coffee.
- Lateness for a business meeting or dinner can be seen as disrespectful. Turkish people typically arrive on time and expect the same of guests (though social dinners might start 10–15 minutes late).
- Criticizing Atatürk or the national flag openly is taboo. These are highly respected symbols.
- Loud arguments or raising one’s voice in public is generally avoided. It’s better to keep disagreement behind closed doors to save face.
By following these guidelines and showing respect for local customs, a foreigner can avoid most social missteps in Turkey.
Turkish Cuisine: A Culinary Journey from Ottoman Palaces to Bustling Streets
One of the richest aspects of Turkish culture is its food. Turkish cuisine is the legacy of empires and farmers alike: a mix of Central Asian Turkic roots, Middle Eastern flavors, Mediterranean agriculture, and Ottoman palace refinement.
The Most Important Meal: What is a Traditional Turkish Breakfast (Kahvaltı)?
Turkish breakfast (kahvaltı) is famously elaborate – more like a midday feast than a simple meal. Instead of cereal or toast, a typical kahvaltı spreads dozens of small plates on the table. You will usually find cheeses (white sheep or feta-style cheese, tangy tulum, sometimes melted kasar, and sweet cream cheeses like bal kaymak). There are olives (black and green, plain or marinated), fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers), and a variety of spreads: jams (often strawberry or apricot), honey (drizzled on creamy kaymak), tahini pekmez (a molasses-paste) and butter. Perhaps the star is bread. Turks might serve crusty loafs of pide or the famous sesame-encrusted simit rings. Often, a special fresh bread (called açma) or flaky burek pastry might also appear, sometimes stuffed with cheese or spinach.
Eggs are common too – scrambled with peppers (menemen) or fried with spicy sausage (sucuklu yumurta). Yogurt or cream (süt, kaymak) can sweeten the palate, and börek (savory filled pastries) or poğaça (cheese rolls) may also be on hand. The only essential drink is Turkish tea (çay) – black and strong – served in small tulip-shaped glasses with lumps of sugar. No coffee at breakfast (that comes after the meal). Turks sit for a long time over kahvaltı, often taking 1–2 hours on a lazy weekend morning. It is a social event as much as a meal.
Beyond the Döner: An Overview of Key Turkish Dishes
If one dish “represents” Turkey, a foreigner might think of the döner kebab (meat spit) or Iskender kebab. But Turkish food is far too diverse for a single national dish. Instead, think by categories and regions:
- Kebabs (ızgara ve şiş): Turkey has dozens of kebab styles. Adana (spicy minced lamb on skewers) and Urfa (a milder version) are from the southeast, while the Black Sea region is known for keme kebabı (smoked pork in Rize). Döner kebab, invented in Bursa, is ubiquitous – but in Turkey it is usually served as a plated dish (like İskender, with tomato sauce and yogurt, not just as a sandwich).
- Stews (sulu yemekler): Soupy or stew-like dishes are common: lentil soup (mercimek çorbası – often served as a starter), yogurt soups, and meat-and-vegetable stews like türlü (mixed veggies) or yaprak sarma (stuffed grape leaves). Meatballs (köfte) come grilled or simmered, often in tomato sauce.
- Olive-oil dishes (zeytinyağlılar): In Aegean cuisine, many dishes are vegetarian and cooked in olive oil. You might find zeytinyağlı dolma (peppers or grape leaves stuffed with rice), musakka (without meat, layers of eggplant, zucchini, potato cooked in olive oil), and stewed vegetables served cold.
- Breads and pastries: Apart from flatbreads (pide, lavaş), Turks have borek (phyllo pastries) filled with cheese or spinach, and mantı (tiny dumplings filled with spiced meat, served with garlic yogurt and butter). Central Anatolia’s gözleme (hand-rolled flat pie) and kayseri manti (dumplings) are beloved by many.
- Seafood: In coastal regions, fresh fish reign. Along the Aegean and Mediterranean shores, grilled sea bream (çipura), calamari, and shrimp meze are popular, often simply seasoned with lemon and herbs.
- Desserts and sweets: After dinner, a Turkish sweet is expected. Classic desserts include baklava (layered filo pastry with nuts and syrup) and künefe (hot cheese pastry soaked in syrup). Sütlaç (rice pudding) and tavuk göğsü (milk pudding with chicken fibers, a curiosity) can be found too. Of course, lokum (Turkish delight) and halva are common sweets, as is fresh fruit.
Regions put their stamp on the cuisine, too. The southeastern city of Gaziantep is famed for pistachio baklava and spicy meat dishes; the Black Sea region uses corn and anchovy (hamsi) heavily; in central Anatolia you’ll find the smoky kebab çöp şiş and hearty manti; the Aegean coast brings olive oil and herbs; even coffees differ (Arabica vs Robusta beans). So, aside from the obvious kebabs and pastries, Turkish dining includes a wealth of vegetables, spices (like cumin and paprika), and yogurt in many dishes. There is no single “national dish”, though some say mercimek çorbası (lentil soup) is a staple starter everywhere. The takeaway is: explore, taste, and expect rich variety.
Turks might laugh if asked for a national dish. Many dishes carry regional pride (say, Adana for spicy kebab, or Bursa for İskender). If pressed, some would mention pilav (rice) or soup, since every meal has rice or bread. Others say hünkar beğendi (a creamy eggplant dish from Ottoman times). In reality, because Turkey straddles many culinary zones, there is no unanimously agreed “national dish.” Foreigners often think of döner, but locals see that as just one of many kebabs. A more accurate answer: Turkish cuisine is so rich that it doesn’t boil down to one dish. Each region will have its own claim. So instead of naming one dish, it’s better to sample a range.
The Rakı Table: Understanding Meze Culture
A unique social eating tradition is the meze culture, often associated with drinking rakı (the anise-flavored spirit of Turkey). Mezes are small appetizer plates (cheese, haydari yoghurt dip, olive salad, stuffed grape leaves, spicy tomato pastes, calamari salad, etc.) served before and during dinner. They allow everyone to taste a variety of flavors. In some gatherings, especially all-male dinners or formal toasts, people will raise a glass of rakı and circle mezes on the table, discussing politics, philosophy, or just sharing jokes. Most Turkish homes have a few favorite meze recipes, and a dinner without meze is considered incomplete. In restaurants, you often order mezes by the plate to share. This style of leisurely nibbling is a testament to the value placed on conversation and variety in Turkish meals.
Rakı is an anise-flavored alcoholic drink that is sometimes called “the national drink of Turkey.” It contains about 40–50% alcohol. When diluted with water or ice, it turns a milky-white color. Traditionally consumed only by men in old times, today couples often share a rakı table. The flavor is similar to Greek ouzo or French pastis. Rakı is sipped slowly, usually with cold mezzes; it is rarely served straight. Many Turks believe it brings out the flavor of food and helps conversation flow. If you choose to try it, expect to mix it half water and half rakı, and perhaps toast with “Şerefe!” (cheers!). For those who do not drink alcohol, remember that it is common to enjoy watermelon instead of rakı at lunchtime in summer – they say they can’t be together.
Sweet Endings: A Guide to Baklava, Künefe, and Turkish Delight
Turkish desserts are famously sweet and decadent. The queen of them is baklava: layers of filo pastry brushed with butter and sticky sweet syrup, filled with pistachios or walnuts. Expect it at every special occasion and in every city’s bakeries. Another must-try is künefe: shredded filo dough baked with melting white cheese inside, soaked in a saffron syrup, and topped with pistachios. It’s the treat of the southeast (Gaziantep style is famous). Lokum (Turkish Delight) is a gel-like candy traditionally flavored with rosewater, lemon, or mastic, often dusted with powdered sugar. These came in colorful squares and were Ottoman palace treats, now sold everywhere as small treats. Less sugary but equally common are sutlac (baked rice pudding) and helva (flour or tahini-based sweets), which are often home-made. An interesting local favorite is dondurma (Turkish ice cream), which is thick and stretchy thanks to mastic gum; in street markets you might even see the showmen twirling it before serving.
Drinks wrap up the meal. After dinner, coffee or tea is standard. However, for those who partake, rakı is the traditional liquor. This aniseed spirit turns milky-white with water and is often called “Lion’s milk” by locals. Drinking rakı is a ritual: a small shot glass, always with water and ice on the side, and rarely more than 2–3 drinks a night. It is typically accompanied by more mezes and slow conversation. The cultural atlas notes that “rakı” is the local drink one might have with evening meals. For non-alcoholics, the ubiquitous drink is still tea (çay) – Turks have more tea per person than any nation, sipping it throughout the day. A white, frothy yogurt drink (ayran) is also very common, especially with spicy or grilled foods – it looks like salty yogurt thinned with water, and it cools the palate.
Coffee and Tea Culture: More Than Just a Drink
No discussion of Turkish cuisine is complete without beverages. We have mentioned tea (çay) repeatedly: it is drunk from dawn to night, dark and strong in small curved glasses. It’s nearly a hostile gesture to refuse tea when offered. Beyond its everyday role, Turkish coffee (served after meals) holds historical and cultural weight. Finely ground coffee beans are boiled in a small copper cezve pot with sugar, then served in tiny cups. Drinking Turkish coffee is a social ritual; fortune-telling by reading the coffee grounds from the cup’s bottom is a folk pastime. The UNESCO Intangible Heritage committee notes a famous Turkish proverb: “Coffee can create friendship that lasts forty years”. Turkish coffee culture was added to UNESCO’s Heritage list in 2013, highlighting how this humble drink embodies hospitality and conversation.
The significance of tea and coffee extends beyond flavor: they are tokens of respect and friendship. For example, when two people settle an agreement or make an acquaintance, a cup of tea or coffee often seals it. Cafés in Turkey are meeting hubs. In rural areas, men may gather in teahouses (çay bahçesi or kahvehane) to play backgammon and discuss news over endless refills of tea. In city homes, conversation often continues long after dinner with rounds of tea. Remember the cliché: “the first visit you make is a tea visit.” Understanding tea and coffee in Turkey is understanding how Turks slow down life: they believe that drinks should be sipped slowly with company, not gulped in haste.
The Turkish Language: A Gateway to the Culture
What Language is Spoken in Turkey? An Introduction
The official and overwhelmingly dominant language is Turkish (Türkçe). Turkish belongs to the Turkic language family (related to Azeri, Uzbek, etc.), not to Arabic or Persian, though it has borrowed many words from those languages. Notably, Turkish was written in the Arabic script (Ottoman Turkish) until the 1920s. In 1928, Atatürk introduced a Latin-based alphabet to modernize literacy. This reform was dramatic: within a generation, most Turks became literate in the new script. Today, Turkish is a phonetic language where letters map closely to sounds. Standard Turkish is based on the dialect of Istanbul, and it is spoken by over 80 million people worldwide.
In daily life, almost everyone speaks Turkish as a mother tongue. Kurdish is the second-most common native language (spoken by about 15–20% of the population, mainly in the southeast), and there are pockets of Arabic, Zaza, Laz, and other languages. But government, media, and schools operate in Turkish. English is taught in schools and is commonly used in tourist areas, but outside cities proficiency drops.
Is English Widely Spoken in Turkey? (And Key Phrases to Know)
In big cities and tourist centers, many young people speak English reasonably well. In Istanbul or Antalya you will find English menus, and hotel staff will often converse in English. In smaller towns, rural areas, and among older generations, English is far less common. It is always polite and useful to learn a few basic Turkish phrases. For example, “Merhaba” (mer-hah-bah) means “Hello,” “Teşekkür ederim” (teh-shehk-kur eh-deh-rim) means “Thank you,” and “Lütfen” (loot-fen) means “Please.” Even if the waiter or shopkeeper doesn’t speak English, a smile and a local phrase can go a long way.
Other useful words: “Evet” (yes), “Hayır” (no), “Hoş geldiniz” (hosh gel-dih-niz, welcome – said to guests), and “Güle güle” (gooleh gooleh, said to someone leaving, meaning “go with smiles”). When you leave home, the common farewell is “Hoşça kal” (hosh-cha kal, stay well). Also, remember to address people by titles as a sign of respect: “–Bey” for men, “–Hanım” for women, after their first names. Using a few Turkish words not only eases interactions but also shows respect, which Turks value highly in foreigners.
The Beauty of the Spoken Word: Gestures and Non-Verbal Communication
Turkish people are generally expressive and warm. It is common to see people leaning in when talking, gesturing widely, or touching a friend’s arm to emphasize a point. A firm handshake conveys sincerity. A beckoning with the hand palm down (grasping the index finger in a “come here” motion) is considered very rude. Similarly, pointing a single finger at someone is impolite. A favorite idle gesture is the “fig” (nah gesture with thumb between fingers), but avoid it – it is obscene.
When listening, it’s normal to nod frequently to signal attention. Maintaining eye contact is seen as honesty (so avoid glancing around when speaking to someone). Laughing and hugging same-sex friends are very common. A man will often greet another man with a pat on the shoulder or a quick hug; among women, social touching is even more frequent.
Remember also that many Turks will stand very close when talking. This is not necessarily intended to be invasive; personal space is closer. You will be asked personal questions (about family, income, job) early on, which might feel intrusive but is considered friendliness and interest in you.
Overall, whether in words or gestures, Turks communicate with passion. They smile and joke openly, but they also give strong, direct praise or criticism. In conversation, it’s common to see animated facial expressions. To fit in, try to show warmth – a simple hand on a shoulder can be reassuring. Also observe one important tip: never show the soles of your feet or shoes to someone – this is considered extremely rude. Apart from that, most communication cues are intuitive: just be open, respectful, and attentive.
Arts and Architecture: A Legacy of Empires
Turkey’s visual culture is a powerful reminder of its imperial past. From mosques and palaces to carpets and calligraphy, you see a constant emphasis on beauty and craftsmanship.
What Are the Main Turkish Art Forms? A Visual Guide
Turkish art spans many mediums. Some highlights:
- Ebru (Paper Marbling): This ancient art turns bowls of water and ink into swirling patterns, which are then transferred to paper. The result looks like colorful clouds or stone textures on the page. Ebru was used in bookmaking and as an art form. Watching a master pour paint on water and swirl it with a comb to make intricate floral designs is mesmerizing.
- Calligraphy: In Ottoman times, Islamic calligraphy was highly revered. You will see enormous calligraphic panels of Arabic script decorating mosques, palaces, and even gravestones. Verses from the Quran, names of Allah, and Rumi’s poetry are rendered in elaborate calligraphic art. Learning to read Ottoman calligraphy is a specialty – for most visitors, it’s a graphic ornament that conveys reverence.
- Iznik Tiles: These ceramic tiles (first made in the town of İznik, formerly Nicaea) are famous. Their vivid cobalt blue and turquoise floral motifs adorn many Ottoman mosques. The iconic walls of Istanbul’s Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) are lined with tens of thousands of these tiles. Each tile can be carved in the city and painted by hand. The images on Iznik tiles often include tulips, carnations, and abstract arabesques. Walking through historic mosques or palaces, you see endless examples of these glossy painted tiles.
- Carpets and Kilims: Turkish rugs (halı) and flat-weave kilims are legendary. A big part of Turkish art is geometric and nature motifs woven into wool carpets. Each region has its own style: the bold prayer rugs of Konya, the intricate Oushak carpets of Western Anatolia, and the kilims with diamond patterns from the east. Making these rugs is a traditional craft passed through generations. Carpets are more than floor covering; they are symbolic, often used in homes to sit on, at marriage ceremonies, and even the word “halı” has entered English as “carpet.”
Ebru (Paper Marbling): Painting on Water
Ebru deserves special mention. It involves dripping oil-based inks onto a water bath treated with a gum that makes the paint float. The artist then manipulates the colors with brushes and combs. Once a pleasing pattern is achieved, a sheet of paper is laid on top to absorb it, creating a unique design that can’t be exactly replicated. The result is dreamy, swirly, and often floral. Historically, Ebru was used to decorate book covers and endpapers. Today, workshops in Istanbul often allow visitors to try marbling. It’s a poetic metaphor – art that literally drifts and flows, much like the culture’s blending of influences.
The Intricate Beauty of Iznik Tiles
Walking into an Ottoman mosque is like stepping into a tile showroom. Iznik tiles, with their distinctive blue and red patterns on white, were developed in the 16th century under Suleiman the Magnificent. They cover walls, mihrabs (prayer niches), and even fountains. Each tile is hand-painted with motifs of tulips (a symbol of the Ottoman empire), carnations, and arabesques. The combination of these tiles with the mosque’s architecture creates a feeling of entering a celestial garden. The intricate detail of thousands of repeating patterns is meant to reflect the infinite nature of the divine. Visiting Topkapi Palace or any major 16th-century mosque is a crash course in how much value Ottoman patrons placed on color and geometry.
The Art of the Kilim: Weaving Stories into Turkish Carpets
Turkish carpets are woven stories. At bazaars like Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, you’ll find piles of carpets, each telling you where it came from. Tribal carpets feature bold, symbolic patterns (stars, eyes, animals) meant to protect or convey a family’s traditions. More urban carpets have floral motifs and complex medallions. Women in Anatolia often wove carpets as part of their dowry, embedding symbols of fertility and destiny in the design. Today, carpets are both functional and collectible. They cover floors, line walls, and are even worn as clothing in some regions (the vest called a yelek is basically a small rug). In modern Turkish homes, you’ll often still see a large carpet or kilim on the floor or even used as a couch cover – a testament to how integral these textiles are to daily life.
In summary, Turkish art and craft emphasize handwork and pattern. They often incorporate symbolic meaning (a tulip symbolizing life, an eye protecting against evil). These art forms have been preserved in museums and modern design. A visitor to Turkey should look up from the pavement to notice all the tilework, wood carving, and textile art that surround you – even simple coffee cups are often printed with Ottoman motifs. They say a Turk can recognize his carpet just by looking at it; perhaps similarly, these art forms help recognize a space as distinctly Turkish.
Architectural Marvels: From Mimar Sinan to Modern Designs
No discussion of Turkish architecture can ignore Mimar Sinan. As the chief Ottoman architect (16th century), Sinan built hundreds of structures across the empire. His masterpieces include the Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul and the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne, both of which dominate city skylines with graceful domes and towering minarets. The UNESCO heritage site description of Istanbul highlights these as the city’s “masterpieces” along with the Byzantine Hagia Sophia. Sinan’s mosques are architectural feats: for example, the Selimiye Mosque’s dome is higher than Hagia Sophia’s, showcasing Ottoman engineering prowess. His designs balanced light and space: interiors are vast, luminous, and acoustically sublime, meant to inspire awe. Walking inside the Süleymaniye or Selimiye, one is enveloped by the harmony of dome and pillars, with light filtering through stained glass.
Turkish architecture also inherited earlier treasures. The Hagia Sophia, built by Emperor Justinian in 537 AD, was the world’s largest church until modern times. Conquered by Ottomans in 1453, it became a mosque (today it is a museum/mosque hybrid). Its enormous dome, mosaics (covered then uncovered), and minarets blend Byzantine and Ottoman history. Nearby stands the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii, 1616), which Sinan’s grandson built by emulating Hagia Sophia’s grandeur, but adding six minarets and a brilliant interior of blue Iznik tiles. Each grand mosque (e.g. Rüstem Pasha, Ortaköy, Yeni Cami) introduces different tile or stone motifs; taken together, they chronicle an architectural evolution from the 6th to the 20th centuries.
In the modern era, Turkish architects mix the old and new. Glass skyscrapers rise in Istanbul’s business districts, but many architects echo Ottoman motifs on facades. For example, you might see a new office tower with geometric lattice reminiscent of mashrabiya screens. Contemporary design also honors the past: the recently built Yunus Emre Mosque outside Istanbul borrows classic shapes but in steel and glass. Preservation is also important: Turkey has restored many of its historic monuments. So in walking through Turkey, you literally see how the legacies of Byzantium and Ottoman times have “built” the Turkey of today – every mosque, palace, or even a stone bridge (like the Ottoman-era Taşköprü in Adana) stands as a testament to those empires.
Turkish Music, Dance, and Performing Arts
Music and dance in Turkey range from folk traditions to pop culture, reflecting regional diversity and modern shifts.
What Kind of Music is Popular in Turkey? From Traditional Folk to T-Pop
Turkey’s music scene has undergone cycles. Traditional music forms remain beloved: Turkish classical music (from the Ottoman palace era, with its modal scales called makams) and folk music (the türkü sung by aşık bards or at weddings) dominated the cultural landscape through the early 20th century. Famous artists like Âşık Veysel and Zeki Müren built reputations on these styles. Folk songs, often accompanied by the saz (long-necked lute), capture the longing and color of the Anatolian countryside. In cities, the mehter (Ottoman military band) drums and horn are played on patriotic occasions.
From the 1970s onward, Western influence brought rock and pop. “Anatolian rock” emerged, blending electric guitar with traditional sounds (led by artists like Barış Manço). By the 1980s, a style called Arabesque became extremely popular among the masses – emotional ballads with Middle Eastern scales (think Ajda Pekkan or İbrahim Tatlıses). In the 1990s and 2000s, as the economy opened, Turkish pop music (T-Pop) surged globally. Singers like Tarkan (known for “Şımarık”/“Kiss Kiss”) and Sertab Erener topped charts domestically and even abroad. Today, Turkish pop, rock, hip-hop, and even electronic music thrive, alongside TV soundtracks. Many young Turks listen to both Western hits and local stars. In short, if it’s on the radio, it could be anything from traditional folk to dance pop.
Folk Dances: The Halay, Horon, and Zeybek
Dance traditions are also regionally distinct. The Halay is a famous group dance from Eastern Anatolia: dancers form a long chain or circle, hand on shoulder, stomping in unison to a drum and zurna (horn) rhythm. In the Black Sea region, the Horon involves rapid movements and shoulder shakes to the kemençe (fiddle). In the Aegean west, men perform the Zeybek with slow, heroic steps, often with wide leather trousers and colorful vests. These folk dances are performed at weddings, festivals, and folkloric shows. Watching local villagers dance barefoot on a grass field at a harvest festival is as authentically “Turkish” as it gets. Even in cities, folk dance ensembles keep these alive. They show how each part of the country has its own way of expressing joy through movement.
The Global Rise of Turkish Cinema and TV Series (Dizi)
In recent decades, Turkey has become a soft power exporter through film and TV. Turkish soap operas and dramas, known as dizi, have exploded in popularity from Eastern Europe to the Middle East to Latin America. Shows like Magnificent Century (a historical drama about Suleiman) or Ertuğrul (about an ancestor of the Ottomans) mix Turkish history with universal themes, captivating international audiences. Meanwhile, modern comedies and rom-coms depict urban Turkish life. The film industry itself is thriving: Turkish movies regularly win awards at international film festivals and compete at Cannes. This modern storytelling is a new cultural export and shows how Turkish society negotiates its traditions and modernity. Through these media, thousands worldwide have a window into Turkish culture, cuisine, or simply the vibe of Istanbul’s streets.
Festivals and Public Holidays: When Turkey Celebrates
Turkey’s calendar is punctuated by vibrant national and religious festivities. These events are windows into Turkish culture.
National vs. Religious Holidays: A Calendar of Events
Turkey has several national holidays that commemorate historical events:
- National Sovereignty and Children’s Day (April 23): Celebrates the founding of the Turkish Parliament in 1920. Schools often hold performances where children symbolize Turkey’s future.
- Labor and Solidarity Day (May 1): May Day celebrations (though these have had mixed political history in Turkey).
- Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day (May 19): Marks Atatürk’s landing at Samsun (1919) to start the War of Independence. Schools hold athletic events and youth gatherings.
- Democracy and National Unity Day (July 15): Commemorates the failed coup of 2016. People watch patriotic programming and attend ceremonies.
- Victory Day (August 30): Marks a key victory in the War of Independence (1922). Military parades in big cities take place (e.g. Ankara).
- Republic Day (October 29): The biggest secular holiday, marking the proclamation of the Republic (1923). It is celebrated with official ceremonies, fireworks, parades, and concerts.
Religious holidays follow the Islamic lunar calendar:
- Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr): Three-day festival at the end of Ramadan, called the “Sugar Feast.” Families gather for special breakfasts, children visit elders to receive gifts, and sweet treats like baklava and Turkish delight are widely shared. Everyone offers “Bayramınız kutlu olsun” (Happy Bayram) to others.
- Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha): Four-day festival about 70 days after Ramadan, called the “Feast of Sacrifice.” Families who can afford it sacrifice a sheep or cow, distributing the meat among family, friends, and the poor. It emphasizes sharing and charity – one mosque sermon might recount Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice in devotion to God.
- Ramadan Month: Even during Ramadan (which moves through the seasons), cities take on a distinct atmosphere. Special lanterns and decorations appear at night, and TV stations broadcast iftar programs. Streets are quieter during daylight, and mosques fill up for the evening prayers.
Turkey also recognizes cultural festivals like Newroz (Nowruz, the Persian New Year around March 21), celebrated especially by Kurds and some others as a spring festival. While not an official public holiday for the entire country, many cities now hold public events like dance and music shows. Another unique event is Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival: held every summer in Edirne, this is one of the world’s oldest continuous sporting events. Wrestlers douse themselves in olive oil and grapple in an open field; the winner receives the ceremonial golden belt. UNESCO has even listed Kırkpınar as intangible cultural heritage (inscribed 2010), noting that tens of thousands gather to watch these matches as part of a two-week fair.
What are the Biggest Cultural Festivals in Turkey?
By attendance and visibility, Republic Day (Oct 29) and National Sovereignty Day (Apr 23) are the largest secular events, with parades and fireworks nationwide. Among religious festivals, Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr) and Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha) are widely celebrated – families travel, give food to neighbors, and meet relatives, similar in scale to Christmas in the West. For cultural heritage, Kırkpınar in Edirne (oil wrestling, late June/July) and Nevruz (spring equinox celebrations) draw large crowds. Cities also host international festivals: the Istanbul Film Festival, Istanbul Biennial (contemporary art), the Antalya and Adana Film Festivals, and more. Many towns have local fairs during harvest times (like a cherry festival in Bursa or a melon festival in Adana). In short, from national pageants to regional feasts, Turkey’s festivals offer lively windows into its traditions.
Celebrating Ramadan and the Sugar Feast (Şeker Bayramı)
Ramadan’s end is called Şeker Bayramı (Sugar Festival) because it’s customary to start the day with a sweet breakfast. On the first morning of Bayram, families don new or their finest clothes and gather to eat baklava, Turkish delight, and special pastries. Children often visit relatives and neighbors, receiving candies or small amounts of money. It’s a holiday of sharing joy and forgiveness. Public spaces open early, and the sense of community is strong: even secular Turks often give up a few days of the holiday to volunteer or clean mosques. Evening concerts and special lights decorate city streets. Although work isn’t required on the first day of Bayram, many Turks take the full period off to travel home or reunite with family.
The Feast of Sacrifice (Kurban Bayramı)
Kurban Bayramı commemorates Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son (and his subsequent mercy by God). During these days, one sheep (or other livestock) is ceremonially slaughtered for each household that can afford it. The family keeps a portion of the meat and distributes the rest in three parts: one to relatives, one to the poor, and one for the household itself. Special prayers of sacrifice are said at mosques on the morning of the first day. Then the atmosphere is festive: people prepare kebabs and manti (a dish of dumplings) from the fresh meat. The week after, free meals (known as Kurban Lokması) are often offered by families or foundations on the street for anyone to take. In short, Kurban Bayramı is as much about charity and hospitality as it is about tradition – embodying the cultural value of sharing blessings.
Festivals and Public Holidays: When Turkey Celebrates
In recent decades, Turkey has seen rapid social change. Many rural Turks have moved to cities (Turkey’s urban population is now roughly 75–80%), and Turkish society is increasingly cosmopolitan. Yet traditional elements endure. The country is often described as having “one foot in tradition, one in modernity.”
How Has Turkish Culture Changed in Recent Years?
Globalization, media, and political shifts have stirred debates about identity. Fashion trends in Istanbul sometimes rival Milan or Paris: you’ll see stylish young Turks at upscale malls and clubs. Social media platforms (Turks are very active on Instagram, TikTok, etc.) are influencing opinions and tastes rapidly. At the same time, there has been a revival of interest in Islamic traditions among some – more people pray, and there’s been a surge in construction of new mosques. Youth are more likely to question authority and traditional norms: for example, cohabitation before marriage is becoming slightly less taboo in the cities, and more women pursue careers rather than immediate marriage.
However, the core values of hospitality, family loyalty, and national pride have remained stable. Many Turks feel that modernization simply means updating the outward forms – faster trains, smartphone use – rather than abandoning heritage. In fact, a cultural introspection is happening: young designers are reviving Ottoman styles in fashion, chefs are putting local twists on classics, and TV dramas often glorify historical themes, showing pride in the past. In an iRoamly cultural review, the author notes that Istanbul’s hip districts have tech startups next to ancient bazaars, indicating “tradition and innovation” coexisting.
Urban vs. Rural: A Tale of Two Turkeys
Big cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and İzmir feel very modern – fast-paced, with skyscrapers, traffic jams, and Western-style shopping malls. People there often live in high-rises and have busy professional lives, yet still gather for tea. Rural Turkey, by contrast, still follows many age-old rhythms. In Anatolian villages, summer can involve a community procession for a sunflower festival, or a nightly bereket duası (blessing of the fields) after harvest. In East and Southeast Turkey, some villages still speak Kurdish or other local languages among themselves, and extended families often work together on farmland.
These differences can lead to mild cultural tension. It’s not uncommon to meet young villagers in Ankara who moved to study, or city folk who vacation in Bodrum to escape the noise. Politically, cities tend to be more secular and liberal, while rural areas vote more conservatively (though there are exceptions). Yet, almost all Turks share admiration for their country’s food, football teams, and music, bridging the urban-rural gap. In restaurants and cafes of Istanbul or Bursa, you will encounter both traditional farmers in work clothes and youths in skinny jeans, often enjoying the same kebab or lahmacun.
What is Modern Youth Culture Like in Turkey?
Today’s Turkish youth live in a globalized yet uniquely Turkish mix. University students might debate the latest Netflix show over Turkish tea, then scroll through Instagram for fashion. Consumption of international brands and social apps is high – for example, Turks are among the biggest users of Twitter and TikTok per capita. At the same time, many young people feel proud of their heritage and are eager to reinterpret it in new ways. Street art in Istanbul sometimes combines Ottoman calligraphy with modern graffiti; indie music bands merge Anatolian melodies with rock. Coffee shops serving latte art stand beside traditional çay gardens.
Key challenges do face Turkish youth: economic pressures (inflation, job scarcity) and political divides. Some youth are increasingly questioning the rigidity of old norms. Premarital relationships, once heavily scrutinized, are more tolerated in some circles, and there’s growing dialogue about gender roles and women’s rights. However, in many universities, one can still find conservative and liberal students debating those very issues. Overall, young Turks are bridging the traditional-modern gap by selectively adopting global trends (like gaming or social causes) while still valuing local legacy. For example, young designers may launch clothing lines featuring Ottoman motifs, or tech entrepreneurs develop apps that cater to local needs (like bilingual Quran apps or Turkish language keyboards).
In short, modern youth culture is savvy and self-aware: these younger generations are connected to the world but walk with one foot in their native culture. As one recent review notes, Turkey “never lost a sense of its identity,” even as it adapts to change. This confidence in blending past and present is a hallmark of the modern Turkish spirit.
Practical Advice for Travelers and Expatriates
Finally, a few tips for outsiders navigating daily life in Turkey:
- Safety for Solo Female Travelers: In cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya, many women travel alone safely. Public transport and hotels are generally secure and easy to use. However, as in any country, street smarts are wise: avoid poorly lit alleys at night, watch for pickpockets in crowded bazaars, and respect conservative areas’ norms (e.g. dress modestly in rural East). Most Turkish men are courteous to women in public and few incidents occur. Some women suggest learning a few Turkish phrases so people take you more seriously as a local. Overall, Turkey is considered fairly safe for solo female visitors, provided normal precautions are taken and cultural sensitivities are honored.
- Business Culture: Punctuality is important in Turkish business, though meetings often begin with tea and small talk. Building personal trust matters – don’t rush into contracts on the first meeting. Address businesspeople with their professional title (e.g. “Mühendis” for engineer, “Doktor” for doctor if known). Handshakes are firm. Avoid controversial topics like politics or religion with colleagues until you know them well. Gift exchanges are possible but usually happen after you know the person fairly well, and should be modest.
- Water Safety: The straightforward advice is not to drink tap water in Turkey unless you know it’s recently filtered. In most places, locals drink tap water, but travelers sometimes experience stomach upset. Bottled water is cheap and widely available (even in restaurants, bottled water is served by default). Use bottled or boiled water for brushing teeth if you have a sensitive stomach. In restaurants, ice cubes are usually made from tap water – if you are cautious, ask for drinks without ice. In day-to-day travel: assume tap water for tea/coffee is okay (since boiling purifies), but stick to bottled for drinking.
Each country has quirks, and Turkey is no exception. By embracing Turkish ways (like the politeness rules above) and showing genuine interest in the culture, visitors and expatriates almost always receive warmth and patience in return. Remember that a smile and “Teşekkür ederim” can open many doors.
Conclusion: The Enduring Spirit of Turkish Culture
Turkey’s culture is defined by layers – of history, of identities, and of experiences. It is a land where ancient palaces and modern skyscrapers coexist, where the daily cup of tea sits alongside an age-old poem. The tapestry of Turkish culture is rich: a visitor might marvel at the grand domes of mosques one day and the humble hospitality of a village family the next. Throughout, the core themes of family, generosity, and pride endure.
In the end, the magic of Turkey is not just in its sights, but in the spirit of its people. Decades have passed since Atatürk’s reforms, yet the blend of East and West, tradition and progress, still defines the nation. Whether through a shared bowl of lentil soup or a weep of joy at a wedding, Turks express humanity in ways that outsiders find deeply resonant. By learning about Turkey’s culture – its foods, festivals, and philosophies – we see how a country can honor its past without being imprisoned by it, and embrace modern life without losing its soul.
Embarking on this cultural journey reveals much about Turkey’s soul: it’s a country that encourages its guests to take off their shoes, put their feet under the table, and stay awhile. In every sense, Turkey welcomes the world while remaining proudly itself.
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