Turkey has a rich history of pottery and ceramics, dating back to ancient civilizations like the Hittites and Romans. Today, the tradition of Turkish ceramics is alive and well, with talented artisans creating beautiful pieces that are both functional and decorative. If you’re visiting Turkey and want to bring home a unique and special souvenir, traditional Turkish ceramics are a great choice. In this guide, we’ll explore the history of Turkish ceramics and where you can find the best pottery in the country.
History of Turkish Ceramics: The art of Turkish ceramics has been passed down through generations of master artisans. The earliest known examples of Turkish pottery date back to the Neolithic period, over 8,000 years ago. Throughout history, Turkish ceramics have been prized for their beauty and durability. The Ottomans in particular, were known for their exquisite tile work and pottery, which can still be seen in mosques and other historic buildings throughout Turkey.
Types of Turkish Ceramics: There are many different types of Turkish ceramics, each with their own unique style and characteristics. Some of the most popular types include:
Iznik ceramics: This type of pottery is characterized by its intricate blue and white designs, and was especially popular during the Ottoman period.
Kutahya ceramics: Kutahya is known for its colorful, bold designs, which often feature floral motifs and geometric patterns.
Cini ceramics: Cini is a type of Turkish tile work that is often used to decorate buildings and homes. The tiles feature intricate designs and can be quite elaborate.
Where to Buy Traditional Turkish Ceramics: There are many places to buy traditional Turkish ceramics in Turkey. Some of the best places to shop include:
Grand Bazaar: Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, and is a great place to find traditional Turkish ceramics. You’ll find many shops selling beautiful pieces of pottery and tile work.
Iznik: The town of Iznik, located in western Turkey, is famous for its ceramics. Here, you can find beautiful pieces of Iznik pottery in a variety of styles and designs.
Avanos: The town of Avanos, located in Cappadocia, is known for its pottery workshops. Here, you can watch artisans at work and purchase unique pieces of pottery.
Kutahya: The city of Kutahya is famous for its ceramics, particularly its bold and colorful designs. Many shops in the city sell beautiful pieces of Kutahya pottery.
Conclusion: Traditional Turkish ceramics are a beautiful and unique souvenir to bring home from your travels in Turkey. Whether you’re looking for a functional piece of pottery or a decorative tile to hang on your wall, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. By visiting the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, the town of Iznik, or the pottery workshops in Avanos and Kutahya, you can experience the rich history and tradition of Turkish ceramics firsthand.
