A Turkish Mosaic

Today, Turkish hospitality continues to bridge cultural divides, fostering connections and promoting understanding. It’s a practice that embodies the essence of Turkish warmth and kindness, making it an integral part of the nation’s social fabric. Whether in a village or a bustling city, Turkish hospitality leaves a lasting impression, making visitors feel like part of the community

What’s a Altın Günü" (gold day), exactly? It’s a day for Turkish women to come together, socialize and save some money for when it’s needed. Going to the bank is a relatively new thing in Turkey — people traditionally borrowed and lent money to others in their social circle, which generally consisted of extended family and close friends from school and the neighborhood. So not only is this ritual...

 Çini Sanatı developed in Anatolia in the earliest ages of the region, and play a very important role in Turkey’s history and culture. Turkey’s history of ceramic production dates back to about 10,000 years, with different types developing in multiple regions. During the mid-20th century era, mass production began as Turkish ceramic producers built factories to produce the ceramics on a much large...

Join us today as we explore Divan music, a classical genre rooted in the rich traditions of the Ottoman Empire, holds significant importance in Turkish culture for its ability to encapsulate the essence of the country's historical and artistic heritage. This music, often performed in conjunction with Divan poetry, intertwines lyrical beauty with intricate musical compositions, reflecting themes of...

Meyhanes hold a special place in Turkish culinary culture, serving as more than just places to eat and drink. Traditionally, they are social hubs where people gather to share stories, critique life, and offer support to one another. The focus is not on heavy meals but on small plates of meze–a cornerstone of Turkish cuisine, reflecting the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Meyhanes also embody the...

Yusuf Dikeç, born on January 1, 1973, in Turkey, is a renowned sports shooter, known for his exceptional skills and calm demeanor. He has been a prominent figure in the world of competitive shooting, representing Turkey in numerous international events. Yusuf has a distinguished career, having competed in every Summer Olympics since 2008. His dedication and talent have earned him several titles fr...

Discover "Göbeklitepe: The Cradle of Civilization," a podcast exploring one of the world's most significant archaeological sites, located in southeastern Turkey. Dating back over 11,000 years, Göbeklitepe predates Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza, reshaping our understanding of early human history. This ancient site, often referred to as the world's oldest temple, features massive stone pillars...

The 2024 Paris Olympics marked a historic milestone for the Turkish women's volleyball team as they achieved unprecedented success on the world stage. Overcoming numerous challenges, including injuries and fierce competition, the team displayed remarkable resilience and skill, advancing to the Olympic semi-finals for the first time in their history. Under the strategic guidance of Italian coach Da...

As the global automotive industry undergoes a transformative shift towards sustainability and innovation, Turkey makes a significant leap with the introduction of Togg, the nation's first domestically produced electric car. Togg, which stands for "Türkiye'nin Otomobili Girigim Grubu" (Turkey's Automobile Initiative Group), represents more than just a vehicle; it embodies Turkey's ambition to becom...

In our fast-paced and often divided world, the teachings of Rumi offer timeless wisdom that transcends cultural and religious boundaries. Rumi, a 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic scholar, and Sufi mystic, spent much of his life in Konya, Turkey, where his profound insights into love, unity, and the human spirit were crafted into beautiful poetry and enduring spiritual teachings. Learning about R...

Today let’s delve into the vibrant world of the Halay, a traditional Turkish folk dance with deep historical roots and cultural significance. This episode explores the origins of Halay, its regional variations, and the occasions on which it is performed. Learn about the traditional costumes worn by dancers and the instruments that accompany the dance, such as the davul (drum) and zurna (a woodwind...

Travel through the Eurasia Tunnel, officially known as the Avrasya Tüneli, is a monumental infrastructure project that has significantly enhanced Istanbul's urban landscape. This 5.4 km (3.4 mi) double-deck road tunnel crosses beneath the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the European and Asian parts of Istanbul. Opened to traffic on December 22, 2016, the tunnel is a testament to modern engineering an...

Explore the fascinating history and significance of the 15 Temmuz Bridge, also known as the July 15 Martyrs' Bridge, in Istanbul, Turkey. This episode delves into the architectural marvel that spans the Bosphorus Strait, linking Europe and Asia. Learn about its construction, historical context, and the pivotal role it plays in connecting not just two sides of a city, but two continents. Discover w...

Van Cats, or "Van Kedisi" in Turkish, are a unique and cherished breed from the Lake Van region in eastern Turkey. Known for their striking appearance, these cats typically have a pure white coat and heterochromatic eyes, with one blue eye and one amber or green eye, making them easily recognizable. Their silky fur and strong, muscular build add to their elegance. Beyond their looks, Van Cats are...

Join host Can Sinan as he delves into the exciting world of the 2024 Paris Olympics, focusing on the dynamic Turkish athletes competing this year. With 18 athletes participating in various events, including artistic gymnastics, shooting, boxing, fencing, judo, table tennis, rowing, and swimming, Turkey's presence is strong and diverse. This episode features special guest Murat, who shares insights...

Welcome to "A Turkish Mosaic," the podcast exploring the rich tapestry of Turkish culture and history. I'm your host, Can Sinan. Today, we're delving into the origins of Turks and their ancient culture, particularly focusing on Tengrism. Joining us is Tuğra, who researches Turkic history and culture.

Today on A Turkish Mosaic we will discuss Mete Gazoz's journey from a young archer to an international champion is a testament to his dedication and the support of the Turkish Archery Federation. His achievements have not only brought pride to Turkey, but have also inspired a global interest in archery. We look forward to witnessing his future successes and the impact he will continue to have on t...

As Turks and with our fellow listeners, we come together to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of Aziz Sancar. His groundbreaking work in DNA repair has not only earned him the prestigious Nobel Prize in Chemistry but also brought immense pride to our nation. Aziz Sancar's relentless dedication to science, his journey from a small town in Mardin to the global stage, and his commitment to edu...

Today on a Turkish Mosaic, we dive into the rich and diverse culinary culture of Turkey with our latest episode. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the serene coastal towns, Turkish cuisine offers a vibrant tapestry of flavors and traditions. Discover the origins of iconic dishes like kebabs, baklava, and mezes, and explore how regional variations add unique twists to these timeless classics...

let’s delve into Turkish mythology, with its rich tapestry of gods, heroes, and fantastical creatures, offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and spiritual fabric of the Turkish people. Rooted in ancient Turkic traditions and influenced by the diverse cultures encountered throughout history, Turkish mythology is a unique blend of shamanistic beliefs, Islamic influences, and local folklore....

In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, host Can Sinan is joined by returning guest Mehmet to explore the vibrant customs and traditions of Laz culture in Turkey. Delve into the lively atmosphere of Laz weddings, where music, dance, and colorful attire bring communities together in joyous celebration. Learn about the Vartivor festival, a summer event that reflects the agricultural roots of the Laz pe...

Today on A Turkish Mosiac, we will discuss Turkish hazelnuts, pistachios, and honey, which are highly valued in the global marketplace due to their exceptional quality, flavor, and nutritional value. Turkey is the world's largest producer and exporter of hazelnuts, contributing approximately 70% of the global supply. These hazelnuts are prized for their rich taste and are a key ingredient in many...

Cappadocia, Turkey, is a captivating destination known for its surreal landscapes and rich history. Its unique geological formations, such as fairy chimneys, mushroom-shaped pillars, and ancient cave dwellings, are the result of volcanic activity and erosion over thousands of years. Visitors can explore underground cities, carved into soft tuff rock, which provided refuge and living quarters for e...

Let’s delve into the historical and contemporary significance of marriage traditions in Turkey. Our guest Zeynep explains how mothers with unwed sons would start their search within their inner circles, often consulting Turkish bath owners and street sellers, known as "bohçacı," who had intimate knowledge of the community and could recommend eligible girls. The episode then delves into the detaile...

In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, host Can Sinan welcomes back Mehmet to explore the vibrant cultural traditions of the Laz people, a community deeply rooted in the Eastern Black Sea region of Turkey. Dive into the energetic rhythms of Laz music, featuring the soulful sounds of the tulum and kemençe, and discover the communal spirit of the Horon, a traditional dance that brings people together...