Turkish Culture
Turkish culture is recognised worldwide for its rich history and diversity. Turkish culture has a history of thousands of years and has developed in different forms in different geographies. In this article, we will provide an overview of Turkic culture and discuss some of its important features.
Turkic culture originated in Central Asia, especially in countries such as present-day Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. The Turks led a nomadic lifestyle, grazing their animals and hunting. Therefore, Turkish culture was shaped by a lifestyle close to nature and a culture of animal husbandry.
Turkish culture has undergone a significant transformation with the acceptance of Islam. Islam caused the Turks to leave the nomadic lifestyle in Central Asia and move to a settled life. During this period, Turks formed a new culture by combining with Islamic culture.
One of the most important features of Turkish culture is the culture of hospitality. Turks attach great importance to their guests and do their best to host them in the best way. Hospitality is an important part of Turkish culture and traditionally Turks used to raise their tents to welcome their guests.
The commitment of Turks to ancestral culture is also an important feature of Turkish culture. The horse has an important place in Turkish culture and Turks have a great respect for their horses. Traditional Turkish games take place in the form of shows and competitions on horses.
Turkish cuisine is an important aspect of Turkish culture and Turkish food is famous worldwide. Turkish cuisine is enriched with a variety of meat dishes, pilafs, pastries, desserts and appetisers. Turkish cuisine is particularly famous for its kebabs, and Turkish kebab is considered a popular dish throughout the world.
Turkish music is also an important part of Turkish culture and has a rich tradition. Turkish music is traditionally created by combining instruments and sounds. These instruments include instruments such as baglama, kemençe, ney, oud and clarinet. Turkish music has a structure based on the makam system and each makam creates a certain feeling and atmosphere.
The artistic side of the Turks is an important part of Turkish culture. Handicrafts are a rich aspect of Turkish culture and a variety of products such as hand-woven carpets, rugs, ceramics, wood carvings and copper embroidery are produced. The artistic talents of the Turks are also evident in architecture. Especially during the Ottoman Empire, many important monuments were built in cities such as Istanbul. These include buildings such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Suleymaniye Mosque.
The Turks have a dynamic culture and this culture has changed under the influence of modernisation. Today, Turkish culture combines both traditional and modern elements. Younger generations in particular, while remaining loyal to Turkish culture, are also very interested in western influences. This means that Turkish culture is constantly evolving.
Turkish culture is recognised worldwide for its rich history and diverse characteristics. With hospitality, devotion to ancestral culture, delicious food, rich musical and artistic heritage, dynamic and changing structures, Turkish culture continues to contribute to world cultures.
