Traditional Turkish carpets and kilims are known for their intricate designs and eye-catching patterns, and they have long been prized possessions in the home. These exquisite rugs are skilfully crafted using techniques passed down through generations, each telling a story based on heritage and tradition.

Whilst cruising in Türkiye, you will likely spot many traditional Turkish rugs and carpets for sale in local markets and stores. However, their quality and craftsmanship differ greatly.

For guests interested in taking home one of these unique handmade items, here’s a look at their history, the significance of some of their symbols and patterns, and what to look for when buying traditional Turkish carpets and kilims.

The History of Traditional Turkish Carpets and Kilims

The history of traditional Turkish rugs dates back thousands of years, to when nomadic tribes from the Balkans and Persia introduced their weaving techniques to Anatolia. The vibrant and intricate designs appealed, so their popularity spread quickly. Over time, each region of Anatolia developed its unique style, drawing influence from the local surroundings, nature, culture, traditions, and beliefs.

Unlike the mass-produced rugs in stores today, these traditional Turkish carpets and kilims were handmade, mainly by women.

Many things set traditional Turkish carpets and kilims apart from other rugs and textiles. Perhaps the main difference was the use of elaborate motifs, many of which were designed by the women who made them. This gave an insight into what interested the weaver, their lives, and what they wished to express, and it led to many kilims having detailed patterns representing nature, family, fertility, and the desire for wealth and good fortune.

Turkish Carpets and Rugs: Common Patterns and Their Meanings

When looking to purchase traditional Turkish carpets and kilims, understanding the origin of the patterns adds a deeper layer of appreciation. Whether a bold geometric rug or a fine floral silk carpet, each motif and design carries meaning, reflecting the weaver’s identity, beliefs, and aspirations.

• The Eye (Nazar): This protective symbol is found in textiles, ceramics, and souvenirs throughout Türkiye. It is said to ward off bad intentions and protect against the “evil eye”.
• The Tree of Life: This universal symbol symbolises spiritual growth, harmony, and immortality and appears in many traditional Turkish carpet and kilim designs.
• Ram’s Horns: Associated with courage, strength, and masculinity, the ram’s horn design is common in Anatolian rug and carpet designs.
• Diamonds and starts: The familiar star and diamond motifs represent hope, guidance, and destiny.
• Elibelinde (Hands on Hips): This attractive pattern represents motherhood, fertility, and femininity and celebrates life, contentment, and family union.
• Flowers: The flower patterns popular on many of the most striking silk carpets and kilim designs represent nature, beauty, and abundance.

The Natural Dyes Used in Traditional Turkish Rugs and Carpets

The dyes used to colour Turkish carpets’ fine silk and cotton threads also differ from those used to colour most rugs today, as they are natural and made from minerals, plants, and insects. This meant the designs aged gracefully, and the colours lasted, making elaborate, intricate, and symbolic styles possible.

• Red: Bright and deep reds were generally made from the madder root, which is found throughout Anatolia. Red is featured in most Traditional Turkish carpets and kilims, as the colour symbolises energy, wealth, and happiness.
• Yellow: Yellow symbolises light, warmth, and vitality, and these attractive yellow and golden dyes were derived from chamomile and saffron.
• Green: A sacred colour in Islamic culture used to symbolise faith, fertility, and renewal, green was dyed using a mix of yellow and blue.
• Blue: Derived from the indigo plant, blue was a prized dye symbolising peace and spirituality.
• Brown: In Turkish rugs, tree bark and walnut husks produced browns, blacks, and earth tones. These colours were used to highlight or provide contrast in patterns and symbolise stability, strength, and grounding.

Turkish Carpets and Kilims: Regional Distinctions

From the mountainous Anatolian plains to the shores of the Aegean, traditional Turkish carpets and kilims have been inspired by the culture and local surroundings. Many regions in Turkiye are famed for their weaving traditions, resulting in a wide range of fine carpets on display in the best Turkish carpet stores.

• Anatolian Carpets: Recognised for their bold, vibrant, and geometric patterns, Anatolian carpets tend to have bright, contrasting colours and tell abstract, tribal stories. Wool is mainly used in their making, making them lightweight and slightly rougher to the touch than silk.
• Konya Carpets: Konya is often called “the cradle of carpet weaving.” Most traditional Turkish carpets from Konya use large, symmetrical patterns, earthy tones, and dyes. Primarily made from wool, they have a harder, rougher texture and often depict stories with a natural or spiritual theme.
• Hereke Silk Carpets: Considered by many as some of the finest handmade silk carpets in the world, the carpets and kilims from Hereke near Istanbul are famed for their floral and arabesque Ottoman patterns. Handmade from fine silk threads, they have a luxurious silky texture and a striking, opulent finish and are made to last.
• Bergama Carpets: Originating in the Aegean, these striking rugs and carpets tend to have rich red and deep blue tones and feature impressive floral and natural patterns and motifs. They are mainly made from wool and have a slightly coarse feel.
• Kayseri Blended Kilims: The central Anatolian city of Kayseri is famed for its high-quality, affordable wool and silk blended Turkish carpets and kilims. The designs tend to be smaller and more intricate, featuring floral and geometric patterns in burnt oranges, reds, and earth tones.

Come Shopping For Traditional Turkish Carpets and Rugs

360 Yachting can arrange a tailor-made, expertly guided shopping trip for superyacht guests interested in purchasing Traditional Turkish carpets and kilims. We can arrange visits to specialist carpet boutiques or bazaars in Istanbul and all the regions mentioned or to established vendors along the coast. CONTACT US for more details.