1- Traditional Production of Silk for Weaving: Embark on a cross-cultural journey that celebrates the shared heritage of sericulture and silk production, interwoven across the historical landscapes of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Turkiye (Turkey), Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Delve into the intricate process of nurturing silkworms, tending to the mulberry trees that sustain them, and harvesting the delicate silk fibers that weave the tapestry of cultural identity and craftsmanship in each country. Discover the shared reverence for silk products, treasured for their opulent textures and exquisite designs, gracing special occasions such as weddings, funerals, and communal festivities.

Trace the historical footprints of the Great Silk Road, which facilitated the exchange of not just goods but also cultural expressions, scientific knowledge, and social connections, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration among the diverse communities along this ancient trade route. Embrace the enduring legacy of sericulture and silk weaving as a living testament to the shared history, resilience, and creative ingenuity of the people across these interconnected nations, perpetuating the rich tapestry of cultural heritage and intercultural dialogue that transcends geographical boundaries and unites diverse communities in a common cultural legacy.

2-Ahlat Stonework: Discover the profound artistry of Traditional Ahlat stonework, a cherished craft deeply embedded in Turkey’s cultural heritage. Explore the intricate techniques and aesthetic nuances involved in the extraction, shaping, and ornamentation of volcanic Ahlat stones, meticulously carved by skilled artisans using traditional hand-held tools and methods. From delicate organic motifs to intricate calligraphy designs, witness the timeless beauty of these embellished stones, adorning structures such as homes, mosques, mausoleums, and bridges, alongside ornate tombstones, inscriptions, and fountains.

Immerse yourself in the cultural significance of this ancient practice, intricately intertwined with folk calendars and traditional ecological wisdom, imparting a sense of time-honoured craftsmanship and architectural finesse. Recognize the pressing need to safeguard this endangered tradition, as modernization and demographic shifts threaten its continuity, urging concerted efforts to preserve and promote the legacy of Traditional Ahlat stonework, ensuring its enduring presence for generations to come.

3- Turkish Tea Culture – A symbol of identity, hospitality and social interaction: Celebrate the cherished tradition of tea culture in Azerbaijan and Turkey, epitomizing the spirit of hospitality, communal bonding, and the commemoration of significant life moments. Embrace the diverse array of black tea varieties and brewing techniques, complemented by the artistry of traditional kettle craftsmanship, showcasing the shared cultural heritage of both nations.

Indulge in the heart-warming experience of sipping freshly brewed, steaming tea served in pear-shaped cups made from glass, porcelain, faience, or silver, accompanied by an assortment of delightful sweets, sugar, lemon slices, jams, and dried fruits. Explore the regional nuances where select Azerbaijani communities infuse local spices and herbs, such as cinnamon, ginger, and thyme, infusing the tea with distinct flavours. Emphasise the integral role of tea culture in fostering a profound sense of cultural identity and nurturing social connections across diverse strata, underscoring the contributions of tea farmers, artisans, and tearoom proprietors in preserving this cherished cultural legacy.

4-Storytelling – Nasreddin Hodja/ Molla Nesreddin/ Molla Ependi/ Apendi/ Afendi Kozhanasyr Anecdotes: Experience the captivating social customs and festivities surrounding the timeless narratives of Nasreddin Hodja, a revered sage known for his sagacious insights and witty portrayals of everyday life. Celebrated across Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkiye (Turkey), Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, these anecdotes bear regional nuances in imagery, character names, and plotlines while sharing a collective heritage. Passed down through oral traditions and literary works, these tales have woven themselves into local idioms, proverbs, and cultural expressions, resonating with audiences of all ages.

Infused with clever repartees, unconventional solutions, and delightful plot twists, the Nasreddin anecdotes playfully challenge social norms, showcasing the protagonist’s deft navigation through complex scenarios with the power of words. Serving both an educational and entertaining purpose, these anecdotes enrich conversations, bolster arguments, persuade audiences, and offer profound insights into diverse life situations. Municipalities, educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations actively contribute to the preservation and dissemination of these beloved tales, orchestrating a variety of activities and festivals at local, national, and international levels, ensuring the enduring legacy and widespread appreciation of the Nasreddin Hodja anecdotes across diverse communities.

5- Calligraphy – Hüsn-i Hat: Discover the timeless art of Hüsn-i Hat, a revered practice spanning centuries, dedicated to meticulously inscribing Arabic letters with precision and artistic finesse. Embrace the use of traditional tools, including specialised glazed paper, reed pens, inkwells, and soot ink, each playing a pivotal role in the delicate craft. Esteemed calligraphers, known as hattats, not only create their own tools but also serve as custodians of this rich tradition, imparting their knowledge, skills, and values through dedicated apprenticeships.

Hüsn-i Hat finds expression not only on paper and leather but also on diverse mediums such as stone, marble, glass, and wood, showcasing its versatility and enduring influence. With an array of distinct styles, Hüsn-i Hat has been historically employed to transcribe the Quran, hadiths, poetry, and official state documents, adorning religious and public edifices as a testament to its cultural and spiritual significance. Rooted in the visual depiction of profound ideas, Hüsn-i Hat continues to grace the sacred and literary works, resonating within the intricate designs adorning mosques, Turkish baths, and temples, preserving the cherished legacy of this revered Islamic art form.

6- Strategy Games – Togyzqumalaq, Toguz Korgool, Mangala/Göçürme: Explore the captivating world of traditional intelligence and strategy games, celebrated across the cultural landscapes of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkey. Immerse yourself in the art of gameplay, intricately woven into specially crafted boards or improvised pits engraved into the earth, fostering an environment of strategic engagement and camaraderie. Discover the array of game pieces, ranging from stone, wood, and metal to bone, nuts, and seeds, meticulously manoeuvred by players vying for victory, enhancing cognitive agility and social interactions.

Embrace the diverse variations of the game, featuring boards tailored to accommodate varying player counts, reflecting the adaptability and inclusivity of this cherished tradition. Recognize the interconnectedness between this time-honoured practice and the intricate craftsmanship of wood and stone carving, as well as the artistic finesse of jewellery making, showcasing the profound cultural heritage and artisanal dexterity of the region. Delight in the holistic benefits derived from gameplay, nurturing critical thinking, strategic acumen, and interpersonal skills, passed down through informal traditions and formal educational settings. Embrace the contemporary integration of mobile applications, providing a dynamic platform for learning and playing, fostering the transmission of valuable skills and ensuring the continued reverence and engagement with this cherished cultural practice among younger generations.

7-Art of Miniature: Experience the mesmerising realm of miniature art, cherished across Azerbaijan, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Turkey, and Uzbekistan. Journey into the intricate world of two-dimensional masterpieces, where artisans intricately paint captivating designs on various mediums, including books, papier-mâché, textiles, walls, and ceramics, utilising a diverse array of materials such as gold, silver, and organic substances. Uncover the historical evolution of miniature art, initially depicted in book paintings and later transcending into architectural ornamentation and embellishments in public spaces, each narrating intricate patterns reflecting profound beliefs, cultural lifestyles, and the rich influences of Islamic artistic traditions.

While distinct stylistic variations exist, the art of miniature, as practised across the submitting States Parties, remains an integral reflection of their unique social and cultural identities. Embrace the distinctive perspective characteristic of miniature art, where the portrayal of figures dynamically changes based on their significance, setting it apart from conventional realistic and naturalistic styles. Celebrated for its enduring legacy over centuries, the art of miniature continues to evolve, seamlessly intertwining the past with the present, preserving traditional painting principles while encouraging artisans to infuse their individual creativity into the artistic process, thus perpetuating the timeless allure and cultural significance of this cherished art form.

8-Turkish Archery: Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Traditional Turkish archery, a revered practice encompassing age-old principles, sacred rituals, and communal traditions that have evolved over centuries. Delve into the meticulous craftsmanship of traditional archery equipment, meticulously fashioned from raw materials sourced under specific climatic conditions, including trees, organic glues, horns, tendons, silk, and leather, epitomising the profound knowledge of nature, from flora and fauna to climate dynamics. Explore the diverse disciplines of archery, practised both on foot and horseback, as practitioners train tirelessly, refining their skills through individual practice, spirited competitions, and vibrant festive celebrations.

Admire the ornate embellishments adorning the archery equipment, featuring intricate calligraphy, elaborate ornaments, and exquisite marquetry, each reflecting the artistic finesse and cultural legacy of the craft. Celebrate the pivotal role of craftspeople dedicated to preserving this cherished heritage, passing down their invaluable skills from master to apprentice, ensuring the continuity of this revered tradition. Witness the dynamic evolution of Traditional Turkish archery, as more female archers and enthusiasts embrace its practice, alongside the burgeoning engagement of non-governmental organisations, fostering a thriving archery community that seamlessly integrates this timeless art form into contemporary contexts, securing its enduring relevance and vitality for generations to come.

9- Epic Traditions, Folk Tales, and Music –  Dede Qorqud/Korkyt Ata/Dede Korkut: Embark on a captivating journey through the cherished heritage of Dede Qorqud, Korkyt Ata, and Dede Korkut, encapsulating a rich tapestry of twelve heroic legends, timeless tales, and enchanting musical compositions, echoing across the cultural realms of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkey. Immerse yourself in the vibrant oral traditions, dynamic performing arts, and symbolic cultural motifs that have been lovingly passed down through generations, imparting invaluable wisdom and cultural insights, celebrating the essence of life from birth to the passage of time.

Revel in the melodious tunes resonating from the Kobyz, meticulously mimicking the very essence of nature’s symphony, from the primal howls of the wolf to the melodious whispers of the swan, uniting the essence of storytelling and musical expressions in a seamless continuum. Embrace the profound social and moral values enshrined within these narratives, venerating the virtues of courage, dialogue, holistic well-being, and communal harmony, while paying homage to the enduring spirit of nature, encapsulating the profound history and cultural resonance of the Turkic-speaking communities. Celebrate the enduring vitality of this cultural heritage, deeply embedded in the fabric of diverse communal gatherings, from intimate familial traditions to grand national and international festivities, serving as a timeless emblem of cultural unity and intergenerational solidarity.

10-Spring Celebrations – Hıdrellez: Immerse yourself in the joyous Spring celebration of Hıdrellez, an annual festivity observed on 6th May, symbolising the rejuvenation of nature and the awakening of life, cherished across the cultural landscapes of North Macedonia and Turkey. Encompassing the essence of ‘Hidir’ and ‘Ilyas,’ revered as the guardians of earth and water, this vibrant celebration entails a tapestry of time-honoured ceremonies and rituals, intricately woven into the fabric of communal life, bestowing blessings of prosperity, fertility, and safeguarding the well-being of families, livestock, and harvests for the upcoming year.

Embrace the inclusive spirit of the occasion, uniting families, children, youth, adults, dancers, and singers alike, fostering a profound sense of cultural belonging and communal solidarity, fostering an enduring cultural identity and fostering intergenerational bonds. Witness the vibrant tapestry of local, regional, and national festivities, meticulously organised to ensure broad participation and community engagement, celebrating the rich cultural legacy and the profound significance of this cherished tradition. Celebrate the unwavering transmission of knowledge and skills, intricately woven into familial narratives and shared amongst community members through heartfelt oral traditions, lively participation, and vibrant performances, thus preserving the timeless allure and cultural vibrancy of the Hıdrellez celebration for generations to come.

11-Whistled Language: Delve into the intricate world of the Whistled language, a unique mode of communication that employs melodic whistles to convey intricate messages and articulate words, deeply rooted within the cultural fabric of Turkey. Evolving as an ingenious solution to surmount the challenges posed by the rugged terrain and towering mountains of the region, this vibrant practice remains a lifeline for the predominantly agricultural communities, fostering seamless communication across vast distances while nurturing a profound sense of cultural identity and interpersonal solidarity.

Celebrate the intrinsic significance of this ancestral art form, embodying the enduring spirit of oral tradition and preserving the communal narrative that has shaped the collective consciousness of the region. Witness the resilience of the communities as they actively strive to safeguard this cultural treasure, transcending generational divides by fervently promoting the practice both nationally and internationally, ensuring its enduring legacy and continued transmission from parent to child through both formal and informal educational channels. Despite the pressing challenges posed by technological advancements and evolving socioeconomic dynamics, the communities remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving the sanctity of this timeless linguistic heritage, cementing its rightful place within the natural landscape and cultural tapestry of Turkey.

12-  Çini-Making: Embark on a captivating exploration of the exquisite Çini-making tradition, a revered art form in Turkey renowned for its meticulously crafted handmade glazed tiles and ceramics adorned with vibrant depictions of nature, geometric marvels, and intricate motifs that grace the exteriors of buildings and interiors of homes nationwide. Journey through the intricate production process, from the careful shaping, lining, and firing of the clay in specialised ovens to the delicate transfer of local customs and beliefs onto the clay surface through the meticulous utilisation of coal dust.

Witness the collaborative craftsmanship of dedicated artisans, each entrusted with specialised roles ranging from design and dyeing to polishing and firing, fostering a dynamic interplay of shared expertise and collective artistry. Celebrate the profound cultural significance of Çini-making, serving as a cherished medium for creative expression, personal growth, and emotional restoration, symbolising Turkey’s rich heritage and fostering a timeless link between its vibrant past and present, perpetuating the cherished tradition across generations through intimate household ateliers, public educational institutions, and vocational schools, transcending boundaries of age, gender, and ethnicity, and preserving the enduring art of Çini-making through the timeless spirit of shared learning, communal appreciation, and immersive skills development.

13-Nawrouz Celebrations (Novruz, Nowrouz, Nowrouz, Nawrouz, Nauryz, Nooruz, Nowruz, Navruz, Nevruz, Nowruz, Navruz): Celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Nawrouz, Novruz, Nowrouz, and its diverse iterations, marking the joyous advent of the New Year on March 21, a cherished cultural extravaganza spanning Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, India, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Rejoice in the cherished traditions and cultural festivities that enliven the spirit of ‘the Table,’ adorned with symbols of purity and abundance, fostering cherished familial gatherings and feasts that radiate a profound sense of togetherness and communal joy.

Embrace the vibrant palette of new garments, heartfelt visits, and the exchange of artisanal crafts, kindling the warmth of familial bonds and the spirit of collective celebration. Delight in the pulsating rhythms of street performances, the rhythmic cadence of traditional dance, and the fervor of communal rituals, embodying the rich tapestry of cultural diversity, mutual understanding, and societal harmony, serving as a poignant testament to the enduring spirit of unity and peace within the rich cultural fabric of these diverse communities. Perpetuated through the timeless bonds of intergenerational transmission and immersive participation, the traditions of Nawrouz, Novruz, and Nowrouz remain a poignant emblem of cultural continuity and shared heritage, weaving a timeless narrative of resilience, dialogue, and communal harmony.

14-Flatbread Making – Lavash, Katyrma, Jupka, Yufka: Indulge in the rich cultural tapestry of flatbread making and sharing across Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkey, an ancient tradition steeped in social significance that has withstood the test of time, serving as a cherished emblem of communal togetherness and cultural vibrancy. Delve into the intricate art of crafting lavash, katyrma, jupka, and yufka, a collaborative process involving multiple participants, often family members or neighbours in rural communities, each contributing to the preparation and baking process, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective engagement.

Embrace the cultural resonance of flatbread as a cherished symbol of celebration and communal bonding, gracing the tables at weddings, births, funerals, and a myriad of festive occasions, while symbolising blessings and prosperity, manifesting through heartfelt traditions such as adorning the bride’s shoulders with lavash in Azerbaijan and Iran, or offering the bread to neighbours in Turkey, perpetuating cherished beliefs and fostering communal solidarity and a sense of shared cultural heritage. Immerse yourself in the profound cultural legacy of flatbread making, transmitted through generations within the intimate confines of familial homes and through the revered mentor-apprentice dynamic, serving as a poignant testament to the enduring spirit of hospitality, collective resilience, and shared cultural ethos, reinforcing the cherished sense of community and collective belonging across diverse cultural landscapes.

15- Ebru Making – Turkish art of marbling: Immerse yourself in the captivating Turkish art of Ebru, a traditional technique that weaves intricate, colourful patterns by delicately sprinkling and brushing vibrant pigments onto an oily water surface, before meticulously transferring the designs onto paper, creating a mesmerising tapestry of flowers, foliage, and ornamental motifs, among others. Embrace the profound art of marbling, known for its application in the enchanting realm of bookbinding, with its exquisite adornments gracing the pages of cherished literary works. Witness the meticulous extraction of natural pigments and their delicate interplay with ox-gall, infusing the patterns with a unique vibrancy and fluidity, culminating in the creation of captivating, swirling designs.

Delve into the heart of the Ebru tradition, an integral facet of Turkish cultural heritage and identity, perpetuated through the nurturing bonds of oral transmission and immersive apprenticeships, fostering a cherished sense of continuity and intergenerational dialogue. Celebrate the empowering role of Ebru within the cultural fabric, transcending barriers of age, gender, and ethnicity, fostering a spirit of communal collaboration and strengthening the tapestry of interpersonal relationships and community solidarity, serving as a poignant testament to the enduring spirit of creative expression and cultural interconnectedness.

16-Turkish Coffee Culture: Delve into the vibrant world of Turkish coffee, an artful fusion of meticulous preparation techniques and a cherished communal tradition, cherished as a symbol of warmth, conviviality, and refined social interactions. Embrace the intricate process of grinding freshly roasted beans into a fine powder, meticulously combining the ground coffee with cold water and a hint of sugar, slowly brewing the concoction on a stove to achieve the desired foamy texture, culminating in the creation of the quintessential Turkish coffee experience. Immerse yourself in the cultural significance of this cherished tradition, manifesting as a vibrant symbol of hospitality, fostering an atmosphere conducive to heartfelt conversations, the sharing of anecdotes, and the exchange of daily happenings, perpetuating an enduring legacy of shared camaraderie and communal bonding.

Discover the profound role of Turkish coffee in various social occasions, including engagement ceremonies and festive celebrations, serving as an indispensable component of cherished ceremonial customs, perpetuated through the nurturing bonds of familial interactions and the cherished practice of fortune-telling using the grounds left in the empty cups, further elevating the cultural significance of this time-honoured tradition within the Turkish cultural fabric.

17-Mesir Macunu Festival: Embark on a cultural journey into the heart of the Mesir Macunu festival in Manisa, Turkey, a vibrant commemoration of the miraculous recovery of Hafsa Sultan, the esteemed mother of Suleiman the Magnificent, attributed to the invention of the renowned medicinal paste known as mesir macunu. Every year, from 21 to 24 March, the festival is brought to life as a talented chef and dedicated apprentices meticulously prepare the paste using a blend of 41 meticulously selected fresh spices and herbs, adhering to time-honoured traditional practices, infusing the paste with an essence of healing and rejuvenation.

Witness the sacred rituals performed by 28 imams and apprentices, bestowing their blessings upon the paste before scattering it from the summits of the minaret and the domes of the Sultan Mosque, culminating in a joyous spectacle where thousands of eager participants from across Turkey fervently seek to catch the descending pieces, their fervent hopes for prosperity, love, and familial blessings entwined within each fragment. Indulge in the symphonic melodies of a 45-piece orchestra draped in traditional Ottoman attire, their resounding tunes echoing the timeless heritage and cultural resonance of the festival, fostering a profound sense of communal unity, camaraderie, and convivial celebration, as the city of Manisa warmly embraces visitors from every corner of the nation, weaving an enduring tapestry of cultural solidarity and shared legacy.

18-Keşkek Making: The Ceremonial Keşkek tradition symbolises communal celebrations during pivotal life events such as weddings, religious holidays, and circumcisions. Reflecting collective effort, both men and women collaborate in preparing ‘Keşkek’, a sumptuous dish comprising cooked wheat and meat. Commencing with a spiritual cleansing of the wheat, the rhythmic hulling process ensues, resonating with the beats of traditional drums and pipes.

Outdoors, the cooking unfolds with the infusion of spices and oils, encapsulating the essence of unity within the community. The zenith of the festivity arrives as the vibrant youth rhythmically beat the Keşkek, eliciting joyous cheers and lively melodies. Embedded in daily expressions and blessings, this tradition fosters a profound sense of togetherness and camaraderie, drawing neighbouring communities into jubilant revelry. The legacy of the Ceremonial Keşkek tradition continues to be upheld through the guidance of experienced cooks and dedicated apprentices, ensuring its cultural significance for future generations.

19-Semah – Alevi-Bektaşi Ritual: Semah represents a mesmerising convergence of mystical body movements and harmonious rhythms, constituting a significant component within the Cem rituals of the Alevi-Bektaşi adherents in Turkey. Accompanied by the saz long-necked lute, the Semahs are performed by both male and female semahçıs (Semah dancers). Varied forms of Semahs with distinct musical and rhythmic characteristics are embraced within the Alevi-Bektaşi communities, illustrating a rich cultural diversity.

Rooted in the fundamental belief of unity with the divine as part of the natural cycle, the Semah rituals symbolise the spiritual journey from and back to God. These rituals are classified into İçeri Semahs, performed during the twelve services within Cem, and Dışarı Semahs, performed independently to promote Semah culture among younger generations. Through oral transmission, Semahs serve as a vital medium for perpetuating the profound Alevi-Bektaşi tradition, encompassing traditional motifs, teachings, and a vibrant fusion of art and literature. Its essence resonates deeply, contributing significantly to the enduring cultural heritage of Turkey.

20-Sohbet Meetings: Traditional Sohbet Meetings in Turkey are vital for the transmission of Turkish folk literature, music, and dance, fostering community values and social solidarity. Typically held during the winter, these gatherings provide a platform for men from diverse backgrounds to discuss local issues, preserve cultural traditions, and promote mutual respect and understanding. Participants enjoy traditional performances of music, dance, and theatre, accompanied by the sharing of local cuisine, contributing to a rich cultural experience.

Open to men over the age of 15 or 16, these meetings are inclusive, emphasising the importance of respect, trustworthiness, and responsible behaviour. Attendance is strongly encouraged, reflecting the significant communal role these gatherings play. Mothers and wives play an active role in motivating male family members to participate, recognizing the social and cultural benefits of these meetings. Sohbet Meetings promote ethical values like social justice, tolerance, and benevolence, strengthening the fabric of Turkish society and fostering a sense of unity and community.

21- Oil Wrestling: The Kırkpınar oil wrestling festival is a significant annual event in Edirne, Turkiye (Turkey). Drawing thousands of spectators, the festival celebrates the traditional sport of oil wrestling, where wrestlers, known as Pehlivans, compete for the esteemed Kırkpınar Golden Belt and the title of Chief Pehlivan. The festivity is marked by a vibrant ceremony led by the Kırkpınar Aga, accompanied by the lively beats of forty davul drums and zurna shawms. The procession of the golden belt through the city culminates in a prayer recital at the Selimiye Mosque, followed by the wrestling matches held at the Men’s Field.

During the festival, the Pehlivans are introduced to the audience with poetic descriptions of their names, titles, and expertise. Adorned in kıspet, the traditional leather trousers, they engage in the wrestling bouts, while the rhythmic tunes of the drum and shawm bands resonate through the arena. The festival emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming participants from diverse cultures, regions, and age groups, transcending barriers of religion, language, and race. The Pehlivans are regarded as esteemed figures in society, embodying values of generosity, integrity, respect, and commitment to preserving customs and traditions. The training of the Pehlivans follows the cherished master-apprentice tradition, ensuring the continuity and transmission of this cherished cultural practice.

22-Âşıklık (Minstrelsy): Âşıklık is embodied by the travelling poet-singers known as âşıks. Draped in customary garments and strumming the saz, these artists are mainstays at weddings, local coffeehouses, and various communal celebrations. Embracing a call to this vocation in their dreams, âşıks undergo extensive tutelage, mastering the art of playing string and percussion instruments, storytelling, singing, and the intricacies of repartee.

Their poetic compositions often delve into the intricacies of love, crafted in rhythmic syllabic verse and punctuated with the âşık’s distinct pseudonym, known as the Mâhlas. Spontaneous performances may include folklore, engaging riddles, and lively verbal sparring matches with fellow âşıks, all while adeptly manoeuvring a needle in their mouth to avoid particular consonant sounds.

Acting as cultural conduits, these peripatetic artists foster vibrant social exchanges and robust cultural dialogues, often incorporating topical poetry and incisive social and political commentary. Their indispensable role within wedding ceremonies is a testament to their revered status, serving as mentors and guides, enriching the literary and cultural landscape of Turkey and enlivening the communal tapestry across the nation.

23- Karagöz Theatre: Karagöz is a Turkish shadow theatre art that involves the use of carefully crafted figures made from camel or ox hide. These figures are manipulated using rods and a light source, casting their shadows onto a screen to create engaging performances. Each show usually commences with an introductory figure, paving the way for the main act, which incorporates elements such as music, poetry, myths, tongue-twisters, and humorous interactions.

The key characters in Karagöz are Karagöz and Hacivat, supported by a variety of amusing personalities like Kantocu and Hokkabaz, adding depth and humour to the storytelling. The lead artist, known as the Hayali, controls the puppets, often with the help of apprentice assistants who contribute to the musical components. While the shadow theater was once popular in coffeehouses, gardens, and public squares, particularly during the holy month of Ramazan and circumcision ceremonies, it is now commonly seen in performance venues, schools, and malls in urban areas. Karagöz not only serves as a significant aspect of Turkey’s cultural heritage but also promotes community cohesion through entertaining performances.

24- Public Storytelling – Arts of the Meddah:The Meddah tradition, an ancient form of Turkish theatre, centres on the captivating performances of a single storyteller known as the Meddah. With its roots deeply embedded in Turkey and other Turkish-speaking regions, this narrative style has fostered a rich cultural exchange between various communities across Asia, the Caucasus, and the Middle East.

Meddahs traditionally held performances in bustling locations such as caravanserais, markets, coffeehouses, mosques, and churches, engaging predominantly illiterate audiences through enlightening tales and entertaining anecdotes. Through their craft, meddahs not only entertained but also provoked discussions about pressing social and political issues, serving as catalysts for social commentary and reflection.

The meddah’s repertoire includes a diverse selection of popular romances, legends, and epics, often adapted to suit the specific audience and setting. Their performances hinge on the storyteller’s rapport with the spectators, integrating humor, imitations, and improvisation that often reference contemporary events. Although the tradition continues with sporadic performances at religious and secular festivities, as well as occasional appearances on television, the influence of mass media, particularly the prevalence of TV sets in cafés, has diminished the meddah’s original role as a conduit for education and social discourse.

25- Mevlevi Sema Ceremonies: The Mevlevi Sema ceremony, a profound spiritual practice and a distinctive form of Sufi worship, is celebrated by the Mevleviye, an ascetic Sufi order founded in 1273 in Konya, Turkey. Known for their mesmerising whirling dances, the Mevleviye community has flourished across the globe, with notable centres in Konya and Istanbul that remain active to this day.

Image Credit: By Ayşenur Sağlam via pexels

Participants of the Sema ceremony engage in a profound whirling dance ritual, rotating on their left feet while their bodies gracefully spin around the central axis. Accompanied by a captivating musical repertoire called ayin, the ceremony features vocal and instrumental compositions performed by skilled musicians. Trained extensively within the mevlevihane (Mevlevi lodges), participants received comprehensive instruction on ethics, behaviour, and beliefs, exploring religious music, poetry, and prayer.

The tradition faced adversity during the secularisation policies of the early 20th century, resulting in the closure of the mevlevihane. Despite efforts to revive the authentic spiritual essence of the Sema ceremony by private groups, the modern context has influenced the practice, with some performances catering to tourist audiences and others undergoing simplification to meet commercial demands.