Culture and traditions of Ankara – Explore the Fascinating

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant Culture and traditions of Ankara with our comprehensive guide. Discover the cultural heritage that makes Ankara truly unique. Perfect for people who are passionate about learning and experiencing different cultures. Also read our article “best neighborhoods in Ankara“.

Culture and traditions of Ankara

Culture and traditions of Ankara

What historical period is Ankara known for?

Ankara has a long and rich history, dating back to the Bronze Age Hatti civilization. Here’s a breakdown of some key periods Ankara is known for:

• Bronze Age Hatti Civilization (3rd millennium BC): One of the earliest known civilizations in Anatolia, centered in what is now central Turkey.

• Hittite Empire (2nd millennium BC): A powerful empire that ruled much of Anatolia, with Ankara as an important city.

• Phrygians, Lydians, Persians (1st millennium BC – 6th century BC): Rulers of the region who all left their mark on Ankara.

• Roman Empire (1st century BC – 5th century AD): Ankara became a major city-state under Roman rule, known as Ancyra.

• Byzantine Empire (5th century AD – 15th century AD): Ankara remained an important city under Byzantine rule.

• Seljuks and Ottomans (11th century AD – 20th century AD): The Seljuks and Ottomans both ruled Ankara, with the Ottomans making it the capital of their empire in the early 15th century.

While Ankara has played a significant role throughout history, it’s most well-known for being the capital of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th century onwards. This period saw Ankara develop into a major political and cultural center.

Ankara carpet weaving tradition

Ankara carpet weaving tradition

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, boasts a rich tradition of carpet weaving, which is deeply intertwined with the country’s cultural heritage. The art of carpet weaving in Ankara dates back centuries, with influences from various civilizations that have inhabited the region over the years.

Ankara carpets are renowned for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and superb craftsmanship. These carpets often feature geometric patterns, floral motifs, and stylized motifs inspired by nature. They are traditionally handwoven using techniques passed down through generations, with skilled artisans meticulously knotting each thread to create stunning works of art.

One of the most iconic types of Ankara carpet is the “Kilim,” which is a flat-woven rug typically made from wool or cotton. Kilims are known for their bold designs and durable construction, making them not only decorative pieces but also practical for everyday use.

The designs and motifs found in Ankara carpets often carry cultural significance, reflecting the region’s history, folklore, and traditions. These carpets are not only decorative items but also serve as symbols of identity and pride for the people of Ankara and Turkey as a whole.

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and promote the Ankara carpet weaving tradition. Artisans continue to create these exquisite carpets using traditional methods, and initiatives aimed at supporting local craftsmanship and providing training opportunities for aspiring weavers have helped ensure that this time-honored tradition thrives well into the future.

Ankara traditional clothing names

Ankara has its own traditional clothing styles, though it’s important to note that Turkey’s traditional attire is diverse and varies across different regions and ethnic groups. However, Ankara is known for its modern and cosmopolitan fashion scene, where traditional elements often blend with contemporary designs. Here are a few traditional clothing names associated with Ankara and Turkish culture:

1. Tesettür: This term refers to modest clothing worn by Muslim women, often consisting of a headscarf (hijab), long-sleeved tops, and long skirts or pants.
2. Kaftan: A kaftan is a long, flowing robe or tunic, typically worn by both men and women in Ottoman times. It is often elaborately decorated and made from luxurious fabrics.
3. Şalvar: Şalvar is a traditional Turkish style of trousers that are loose-fitting and typically gathered at the waist and ankles. They are often worn by both men and women, though the styles may vary.
4. Fes: The fes is a traditional cylindrical felt hat, typically red in color, worn by men in Ottoman times. Though less commonly seen today, it remains an iconic symbol of Ottoman culture.
5. Entari: The entari is a traditional Ottoman garment, usually worn by women. It is a long, loose-fitting robe often made from luxurious fabrics and adorned with intricate embroidery.
6. Yelek: Yelek is a traditional Turkish vest, typically worn over a shirt or blouse. It can be plain or elaborately decorated and is worn by both men and women.
7. Cepken: Cepken is a traditional Turkish jacket, often adorned with elaborate embroidery or other decorative elements. It is worn over other garments and is common in folk dances and ceremonies.

Best Ankara traditional food

Best Ankara traditional food

Ankara is renowned for its rich culinary heritage and delicious traditional dishes. Here are some of the best traditional foods to savor when visiting Ankara:

1. Ankara Tava: This hearty dish consists of lamb or beef cubes cooked in a tomato-based sauce with vegetables like potatoes, green peppers, and peas. It’s typically served with rice or bread and is a staple in Ankara’s cuisine.

2. Kizilcik Corbasi: A tangy and flavorful soup made with dried sour berries called kizilcik (cornelian cherries). It’s a beloved dish in Ankara, especially during the winter months.

3. Kokorec: A popular street food in Ankara, kokorec is a sandwich made with seasoned lamb or calf intestines wrapped in flatbread. It’s often topped with roasted tomatoes, parsley, and spicy ezme (a Turkish salad).

4. Firik Pilavi: Firik is a type of roasted green wheat that is cooked into a flavorful pilaf dish. It’s often served with yogurt or meat dishes.

5. Ankara Mantisi: These tiny dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, onions, and spices. They are typically served with yogurt, garlic, and melted butter or tomato sauce.

6. Kemalpaşa Tatlisi: A delightful dessert originating from the Kemalpaşa district of Ankara. It’s a semolina-based pudding flavored with cinnamon and topped with kaymak (clotted cream) and pistachios.

7. Ankara Akide Şekeri: These colorful sugar-coated almonds or hazelnuts are a traditional treat associated with Ankara. They are often served during special occasions, such as weddings or religious celebrations.

8. Ankara Simitlisi: A unique twist on the classic Turkish simit (sesame-encrusted bread ring), Ankara’s version is filled with various ingredients like cheese, sucuk (Turkish sausage), or pastirma (cured beef).

These are just a few examples of the delicious traditional foods that Ankara has to offer. When visiting the city, be sure to explore its vibrant culinary scene and savor the authentic flavors that have been passed down through generations.

Thought-provoking discussion questions  about the culture and traditions of Ankara

• How have the ancient civilizations and empires that once ruled over Ankara shaped its modern-day cultural identity? What remnants of their influence can still be observed in the city’s architecture, customs, and way of life?
• Ankara is often overshadowed by the historic and cosmopolitan city of Istanbul when it comes to tourism. Do you think the city’s rich cultural heritage and traditions are underappreciated or underexposed on a global scale? If so, what could be done to better promote and preserve Ankara’s unique cultural offerings?
• With rapid urbanization and modernization, many traditional crafts, arts, and practices are at risk of being lost or forgotten. What role do you think the younger generations in Ankara should play in safeguarding the city’s cultural legacy and ensuring its continuity for future generations?