A Turkish Mosaic

Sivas, a city in central Turkey, is a historical and cultural gem with origins dating back to ancient times. Known as Sebastea in antiquity, it was a significant center during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Its prominence grew during the Seljuk Empire in the 12th and 13th centuries, becoming a crucial hub on the Silk Road. The city’s architectural heritage from this era, including the Gök Medres...

Upon landing in Istanbul, or even before arrival, one of the first things to catch your eye is an evil eye bead. This cultural item has over 5,000 years of history and is still used nationwide, especially on a newborn baby, a brand new car, or even a newly built house to keep that bad energy away. Actually, not only in Turkey, the Turkish evil eye can be seen on bracelets, necklaces, and other for...

Today let’s learn about Elif Shafak was born on October 25, 1971, in Strasbourg, France, to a Turkish mother and a Turkish-British father. Her parents divorced when she was young, and she was raised by her mother, Şafak Atayman, a diplomat, which significantly influenced her worldview and exposed her to diverse cultures and languages. Shafak spent her childhood and teenage years in various cities,...

In this episode of Turkish Mosaic, we delve into the vibrant and dynamic business culture between Turkey and Azerbaijan. Together, we will explore the historical, economic, and political ties that have shaped the strong partnership between these two nations. From the early recognition of Azerbaijan's independence by Turkey in 1991 to the flourishing economic cooperation in sectors like constructio...

Travel with us to Ephesus, located on the western coast of Turkey, boasts a rich and unique history that spans several millennia. Founded in the 10th century BCE, it became a  thriving Greek city-state and later flourished under Roman rule as a major trade hub. Ephesus was renowned for its architectural marvels, including the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and th...

Horses have been central to Turkish culture for centuries, dating back to the early Turks in Central Asia who first domesticated them. This deep bond facilitated migrations and conquests, helping Turks establish and expand their empires. Horses symbolize nobility, strength, and endurance in Turkish society, and they are celebrated through art, literature, and folklore. Traditional equestrian sport...

Join us for an enlightening episode that celebrates the enduring friendship and cultural kinship between Turkey and Azerbaijan. Whether you are a history buff, a language enthusiast, a foodie, or simply curious about different cultures, this episode offers something for everyone. By the end of this journey, you'll have a deeper appreciation of how these two nations, though separated by borders, ar...

In this episode, we explore Nowruz, the ancient festival that marks the arrival of spring and the Persian New Year, celebrated widely across Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Rooted in Zoroastrian traditions, Nowruz symbolizes renewal, growth, and the enduring cycle of life, bringing together diverse communities in a vibrant celebration of hope and unity. We delve into the customs, foods,...

In the episode, host Can Sinan and guest Ahmet Mert delve into the life and legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, focusing on his profound humanism. The discussion begins with a deep dive into Atatürk’s personal life, shedding light on his marriage and the significance of his adopted children, portraying his compassionate and progressive outlook. The episode brilliantly covers Atatürk’s contributions t...

In this episode, we delve into Mustafa Kemal Ataturk's early life and explore the influences that shaped the future founder of modern Turkey. This episode highlights how these early experiences influenced Ataturk's vision of a secular, independent, modern Turkey. By understanding the roots of his revolutionary ideas, listeners will gain deeper insights into the man who would become a pivotal figur...

This episode of "A Turkish Mosaic" offers listeners a virtual tour of Hagia Sophia through the knowledgeable guidance of historian Ayberk. Delving into the rich history, Ayberk provides an in-depth look at Hagia Sophia's transformation from a grand Byzantine cathedral to a majestic Ottoman mosque, and its subsequent role as a national heritage museum. The podcast vividly describes the building's a...

It's a mysterious place, Diyarbakır. Fortified by tall, grim basalt walls, Diyarbakır may appear intimidating at first glance, but step inside to discover the ancient yet unexpectedly modern city, a fusion of cultures where Turks, Kurds, Armenians, Assyrians, Jews and Arabs have lived together for millennia. Come with us and let’s explore this unique city along the Tigris River.!

Join us on an audio Sumela Monastery tour in the Black Sea region, where the structure dangles above the steep valley below, carved out of the precipitous cliffs. You'll learn about this architectural oddity's rich and fascinating history while marveling at the natural beauty surrounding you, from the roaring waterfalls to hidden caves. Our guest, Batu, will guide us through history and the splend...

The Balyan Family's legacy in architecture is a testament to their remarkable influence on the Ottoman Empire's architectural landscape during the 18th and 19th centuries. As a prominent Ottoman Armenian family of architects, they skillfully blended Neo-Classical and Baroque styles with traditional Ottoman design, creating the distinctive Neo-Ottoman style. Their portfolio includes iconic structur...

Let’s learn about Mimar Sinan, an iconic figure in the history of architecture, is renowned for his profound contributions to engineering and design during the Ottoman Empire. His work, characterized by innovation and timeless beauty, includes masterpieces like the Süleymaniye Mosque and the Selimiye Mosque. Sinan's expertise in structural engineering allowed him to create vast, open interiors and...

Kurdish culture holds significant importance in Turkey, enriching the nation's cultural mosaic with its unique traditions, arts, and heritage. The Kurds, as one of the largest ethnic minorities in Turkey, contribute profoundly to the country's diversity through their vibrant music, dance, literature, and crafts. Kurdish traditional dances like Halay and their distinctive musical instruments, such...

The Zaza Kurds are an integral part of Turkey's cultural mosaic, contributing to the country's diversity with their unique language, traditions, and history. Understanding and preserving Zaza culture is not only important for the Zaza people but also for the broader cultural heritage of the region. Join us today with Kayra Naz as our travel guide as we traverse this enlightening episode and explor...

Today, let’s explore Turkish agriculture and sustainable farming practices as we journey through the history of agriculture in Turkey, highlighting the advanced techniques of the Ottoman Empire and the integral role of farming in everyday life. Learn how diverse crops influence the vibrant flavors of Turkish cuisine, making it one of the most celebrated in the world. This episode also explores Tur...

Let’s delve into the transformative economic reforms implemented during Ataturk's era in Turkey from 1923 to 1938. As the newly established Republic of Turkey inherited a highly centralized and agriculture-based economy from the Ottoman Empire, Ataturk's visionary leadership aimed to build a self-sufficient, independent, and industrialized nation. The discussion explores the significant challenges...

Welcome to our podcast, where we delve into the remarkable history and enduring legacy of the Köy Enstitüleri, or Village Institutes, which revolutionized Turkish education in rural areas between 1937 and the mid-1940s. In this episode, we will explore the visionary initiative championed by the founding father of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and its profound impact on Turkish socie...

Welcome to "Turkish Mosaic," where we delve into the rich and intricate tapestry of Turkey's history, culture, and traditions. In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of childbirth during the Ottoman era with our women's health advocate, Cemre. Discover how women in the past navigated the birthing process, the role of conventional medicine, and the extent of their autonomy over their bod...

The Ottoman Empire's emphasis on animal kindness and care was a multifaceted phenomenon rooted in religious, cultural, social, and practical considerations. This legacy of compassion and respect continues to influence modern animal welfare practices in Turkey, highlighting the enduring importance of humane treatment for all creatures. Understanding this aspect of Ottoman history enriches our appre...

Said to be the oldest pudding in the world Aşure for Turks is a traditional dish associated with the first month of the Islamic year, Muharram and even more notably with the 10th day Aşure günü meaning the day of Ashura: A sombre day marked by many significant events in religious history. Preparing the pudding on this day symbolizes both death and rebirth for many sects and was especially meaningf...

Dive into the intricate and impactful financial system of zakat in Turkey with our insightful podcast. Join us as we explore the historical, religious, and socio-economic dimensions of zakat, an essential pillar of Islam. Discover how zakat shapes Turkish society, supports social welfare, and contributes to economic stability. Featuring expert interviews, real-life stories, and a detailed analysis...

Today on "A Turkish Mosaic," our focus is "Sacrifice and Celebration: Qurban Bayram in Turkey," a captivating podcast that explores the rich traditions, history, and cultural significance of Qurban Bayram in Turkey. Hosted by Can Sinan, we delve into the heart of this sacred festival, offering listeners an immersive experience filled with insightful discussions and heartfelt stories. From the hist...