The nation of Turkey is known for its hot air balloon rides, fantastic history, and delicious food. It is also home to many skilled artisans who create gorgeous goods that will stun your family and friends back home. When you travel to Turkey, make sure to sit down with one of these artisans and learn about their craft! You’ll walk away with a beautiful souvenir, a new friend, and knowledge on art forms you may have never seen before.
CARPETS
Although most rugs you will come across in Turkish bazaars actually hail from Pakistan, Iran, Armenia, Uzbekistan, and other neighboring nations, you can find a needle in a haystack. Carpets in Turkey can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars and can take over a year to weave. When considering a Turkish carpet purchase, make sure to look for the color, dyes, cost, workmanship, detail, weave, and other factors to determine if you are buying the highest quality product in your price range. Remember to ask a lot of questions, like: where was this carpet made, and by who? The artisan who made your carpet will tell stories through the patterns, so sit down with them and ask what all the colors and weaves mean. Finally, bargain! The merchant has his lowest possible price already in his mind, and you should be aware of the highest you are willing to go.
COPPER
Metal artwork can be traced back to the 3rd century in central Asia, and the oldest piece in Anatolia, Turkey, is thought to have originated in 1137. From helmets and swords to tea kettles, copper artwork is known throughout the nation. You'll be sure to see a lot of it in the bazaars as well! Seek out artisans who specialize in pots, intricate dish designs, or lanterns, and you’ll see the amount of hard work that goes into shaping these masterpieces.
OLIVE OIL
From their Mediterranean shores, Turkey stuns the globe with their flavorful olive oil. Experience what has been called ‘olive oil tourism’ by visiting the groves, experiencing the harvest, and learning from the best in the world. The artisans will allow you to sample each kind of olive oil that they produce as well! Make sure to snag a bottle of your favorite variety before you leave, and pack it well in your bag!
CERAMICS
The central region of Cappadocia is known for its red pottery. The citizens of this town have used the red clay from the Red River and formed it into many items, from household utensils to beautiful vases. The absolute best part of purchasing red clay ceramics from this region is the opportunity to sit in the artisan’s chair and use their pottery wheel. They love showing off their craft and attempting to teach you their skills! Although your work of art may have a few bumps in it, theirs are flawless. Cappadocia is featured in our Turkey Expedition, so make sure to check that out if you want to learn more about what this region of Turkey has to offer!
TILE-MAKING
Another beautiful form of ceramics is the famous Iznik tiles from Turkey. What became popular during the Ottoman empire is now a craft that millions travel to Turkey to see and purchase. Just a short ferry ride away from Istanbul, you can find Lake Iznik, where the 16th-century craftsmanship traditions are still being practiced. Surprisingly, each tile takes about 70 days to make! So while you won’t be able to produce one yourself, you can watch the beautiful process. The base of the tiles is ground quartz crystals, and the rest is clay and silica. After being formed, it takes at least 10 days to dry them before they’re baked. So know that when you look at the intricate designs on the small tiles, artisans have put their hearts into them.
Turkey is known for its artwork, artisans, and souvenirs that thousands of tourists show off once they return home. If you want to learn more about visiting Turkey, be sure to read our 9 Things to Know Before Traveling to Turkey and What To Pack for Turkey articles! Have you ever been to Turkey? If so, make sure to tell us your favorite part of the trip below!
Xoxo,
Grace Poulos
Follow her adventures on Instagram!