Turkish culture, customs and etiquette

Turkey, a country spanning two continents and boasting a rich history that dates back millennia, is a land where East meets West, creating a cultural mix that is as diverse as it is fascinating. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the serene landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkish culture is a mixture of colours, flavours, and customs waiting to be explored.

Turkey’s cultural diversity and heritage

Turkish culture is a blend of influences from its Anatolian roots, Ottoman past, and modern Western society. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the tranquil villages of Anatolia, Turkey’s cultural heritage is a reflection of its rich history and unique blend of traditions.

Despite this diversity, Turks share a strong sense of national pride, unity and a shared commitment to hospitality, generosity, and cultural richness.

The official language of Turkey is Turkish, a Turkic language with its own distinct alphabet (Latin script). Turkish is spoken by the majority of Turks and serves as a symbol of national pride and cultural identity. While Turkish is the dominant language of communication and expression, other languages such as Kurdish, Arabic, and Zaza are also spoken in certain regions, reflecting Turkey’s ethnic diversity and multicultural heritage.

Turkish festivals and celebrations

Turkey celebrates a variety of cultural festivals and events throughout the year, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s rich cultural tapestry. One of the most famous festivals is Eid al-Fitr, celebrated at the end of Ramadan with prayers, feasting, and charitable acts.

Another beloved tradition is the Turkish National Day, commemorated on October 29th to mark the founding of the Turkish Republic. Festivities include parades, fireworks, and cultural performances, as well as the singing of the Turkish national anthem and the recitation of poems by national poet Mehmet Akif Ersoy.

Music and dance are integral components of Turkish culture, with a rich tradition of folk music, classical Ottoman music, and contemporary genres. Instruments such as the oud, saz, and darbuka accompany mesmerizing performances of traditional dances such as the belly dance, the halay, and the zeybek. Music and dance play a central role in celebrations, festivals, and cultural events, uniting people in joyous celebration and artistic expression.

Turkish tea culture

Turkish tea, or “çay,” holds a special place in Turkish culture, serving as a symbol of hospitality and socialising. Served in small tulip-shaped glasses, Turkish tea is enjoyed throughout the day, whether in homes, cafes, or traditional tea gardens. Drinking tea is a cherished ritual, providing an opportunity for conversation, relaxation, and connection with others.

Turkish baths

The Turkish bath, or hamam, is a centuries-old tradition that combines cleansing, relaxation, and socialization in a communal setting. Hamams are revered for their ornate architecture, soothing ambiance, and therapeutic benefits, with steam rooms, marble slabs, and hot and cold pools providing a rejuvenating experience for both body and soul.

Visiting a hamam is not only a ritual of physical cleansing but also a cultural experience that offers insight into Turkish traditions and customs.

Turkey’s religious customs and traditions

Turkey is a secular country with a predominantly Muslim population, and religion plays an important role in Turkish culture and daily life. Religious customs and traditions are observed with reverence and respect, from the call to prayer echoing from minarets to the observance of religious holidays such as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Turkey’s rich religious heritage is reflected in its historic mosques, madrasas, and religious festivals, which serve as symbols of spiritual devotion and architectural splendour.

Visiting mosques in Turkey

Visiting mosques in Turkey offers a rich cultural and spiritual experience, immersing visitors in the country’s Islamic heritage and architectural splendor. Before entering a mosque, it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions, which often include appropriate dress codes for both men and women.

For men, wearing long pants and shirts with sleeves is customary, and it’s recommended to avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.

Women should dress modestly, covering their arms, legs, and hair with a scarf if possible. Loose-fitting clothing that conceals the body shape is appropriate, such as long skirts or pants and long-sleeved tops.

By dressing respectfully, visitors show reverence for the sacred space and contribute to a harmonious experience within the mosque’s serene ambiance.

All shoes should be removed before entering any mosque. There are shoe desks inside the mosques, though you can choose to hold them in your hand during your visit. Some mosques have safeboxes with a lock instead of shoe desks.

During the Friday noon prayer, which is the most attended, you might be asked to leave the mosque, don’t take it personally, this is because the mosque may become crowded and there just won’t be enough room for both the worshippers and the sightseers. You will be able to enter back as soon as worshippers have finished.

Understanding social etiquette and customs in Turkey

Hospitality, or “misafirperverlik,” is deeply ingrained in Turkish culture, with guests welcomed with open arms and treated with utmost respect. Visitors are often greeted with a warm smile, a cup of Turkish tea or coffee, and an array of delicious sweets. Turkish hospitality extends beyond the home to include interactions with strangers, where locals are eager to assist and offer guidance to travellers. Refusing hospitality may be seen as impolite.

Respect for elders, or “saygı,” is a fundamental value in Turkish culture, with older family members revered for their wisdom and experience. When on a bus, tram, subway or other forms public transportation, young(er) people will always offer you a place to sit if you are an old(er) person as well as a disabled person or a pregnant woman or have children with you.

When meeting someone in Turkey, a firm handshake and direct eye contact are customary. Close friends and family members may greet each other with a kiss on the cheek or a hug, depending on the level of familiarity. It is also common to exchange pleasantries and inquire about each other’s well-being before moving on to other topics of conversation.

Politeness is highly valued in Turkish culture, with people taking care to greet others with a warm “Merhaba” (hello) or “Selamünaleyküm” (peace be upon you). It is considered impolite to interrupt others while they are speaking or to raise one’s voice in public.

Be respectful of the Turkish anthem. Do not mock or mimick the Turkish anthem, as Turks are extremely proud and sensitive of their national symbols, and will be very offended.

When you hear the Call to Prayer, which is read five times a day from the speakers of the numerous mosques throughout Turkey, do not mock or mimick these calls, as Turks are extremely proud and sensitive of their heritage and culture, and will be very offended.

Do not try to shake hands with a devout Muslim female (that is veiled) unless she offers her hand first, and with a devout Muslim male (often recognisable with a cap and beard) unless he offers his hand first.

It’s advisable to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion unless invited to do so by locals, as these discussions can sometimes lead to heated debates or misunderstandings.

Conclusion

Turkey offers a cultural experience that is both captivating and unforgettable. By embracing its cultural heritage and upholding values of hospitality, respect, and family, Turkey continues to inspire and enchant people from around the world.