Turkey is a country known for its rich cultural heritage, handicrafts and unique weavings. The rugs produced all over Anatolia are one of the most special souvenirs that carry both historical and artistic value. If you want to take home an unforgettable memory from Turkey, traditional Turkish rugs can be an excellent choice. So why are rugs so special? Which motifs carry which meanings? You can take a look at the rest of our article for details about the rugs that have been delicately processed throughout history.
What is a Kilim?
Kilim is a traditional type of carpet made with knotless weaving technique and usually made of wool or cotton yarns. It is woven extensively in Turkey, especially in Anatolia, Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia regions. Rugs attract attention with both their functionality and aesthetic beauty and have an important place in home decoration.
History and Importance of Turkish Rugs
Turkish rugs have a history of thousands of years and were developed by Turks who migrated from Central Asia to Anatolia. Traditionally used in dowries, tents and home decoration, rugs are not only an ornament but also a storyteller. Weavers express important events in their lives, their dreams and wishes through rug motifs.
What are the meanings of rug motifs?
Kilims are fascinating not only with their colours and patterns but also with the meanings they carry. Here are some traditional motifs and their meanings:
🔸Hands-on-Hips: Symbolises fertility and fertility, usually woven for newly married couples.
🔸Rockhorn: Symbolises strength and heroism, often found in rugs woven for men.
🔸Scorpion and Snake: It aims to protect from evil eye and evil spirits.
🔸Star and Sun: Symbolises devotion to the universe and hope.
🔸Water Path: It expresses the flow of life and abundance.
These motifs show that rugs are not only decorative elements but also special artefacts that reflect the feelings, thoughts and life story of the weaver.
Main Regions Where Rugs are Produced in Türkiye
Kilim weaving is widespread in many regions of Turkey, but some cities are more prominent in this field:
♦️Uşak Rugs: Famous for their fine weaving and pastel tones.
♦️Bergama Rugs: It attracts attention with its vibrant colours and geometric patterns.
♦️Konya Rugs: Known for its traditional motifs and use of high quality wool.
♦️Yağcıbedir Rugs: It is one of the most beautiful examples of classical Anatolian rugs with its dark colour tones and symmetrical patterns.
♦️Sivas Rugs: Generally known for their fine and detailed motifs.
♦️Antalya Rugs: The rugs produced especially in the Döşemealtı region are famous for their vivid colours and unique patterns.
Characteristics of Antalya and Döşemealtı Rugs
Antalya is one of the important rug weaving centres of Turkey and is especially famous for Döşemealtı Rugs. Döşemealtı rugs are produced from natural wool yarns coloured with root dye and are hand-woven. The most distinctive features of these rugs:
🧵Vivid Colours: Colours dominated by red, black, navy blue and cream tones are used.
🧵Original Motifs: The most common motifs are “hand on waist”, “ram’s horn” and “star”.
🧵Durability: Long lasting thanks to the use of high quality wool.
🧵Hand Workmanship: Each rug is unique because it is hand-woven and each rug has its own story.
While Döşemealtı rugs have an important place in traditional Turkish home decoration, today they are also preferred in modern homes to create a nostalgic and aesthetic atmosphere. You can find these unique rugs in local bazaars, Döşemealtı villages and art galleries in Antalya and get a meaningful souvenir for your home.
What should you consider when choosing a rug?
If you are thinking of buying a rug from Turkey, you should pay attention to the following points:
👉Material: Usually wool or cotton is preferred, hand-woven ones are more valuable.
👉Hand Woven or Machine Made? Hand-woven rugs last longer and have a higher artistic value.
👉Motifs and Colours: By learning the meaning of the motifs on the rug, you can choose a rug with a special story for you.
👉Measurement: Considering the area you will use, you should choose an appropriate size rug.
👉Direct Purchase: Buying from traditional markets and small workshops allows you to make a more authentic and affordable shopping.
Where to Buy Rugs in Turkey?
In Turkey, the Grand Bazaar (Istanbul), Kızlarağası Inn (Izmir), Gaziantep Bakırcılar Bazaar, Konya, Uşak, Döşemealtı workshops in Antalya are among the places where you can find the best quality rugs. In addition, rugs made in small villages of Anatolia are also very authentic and valuable.
How to Use Rugs in Home Decoration?
Rugs are not only carpets laid on the floor, but can also be used as wall ornaments, pillowcases or tablecloths. Rugs, which harmonise perfectly with modern and traditional designs, will add a warm and authentic atmosphere to your home.
Traditional rugs are one of the most meaningful and lasting gifts you can receive from Turkey. These rugs, which are both works of art and keep the stories from the past alive, will allow you to feel the spirit of Turkey in your home. If you want to take a cultural and artistic heritage back from Turkey, you should definitely consider buying a rug!
