Centuries-Old Carpet Weaving Tradition in Türkiye

In Çanakkale’s Ayvacık district in Türkiye, a centuries-old tradition of hand-woven carpet weaving using madder dye from the Ottoman Empire is at risk of extinction. Businessman Mehmet Ünal Şahin is dedicated to preserving this cultural heritage by caring for a collection of over 500 Ayvacık carpets, each with a century-old history rich in emotions and stories conveyed through intricate motifs and patterns. Şahin annually exposes the carpets to the sun, creating a stunning visual display. He emphasizes the artistry, symbolism, and historical significance of these carpets, highlighting their role as a form of communication and expression. Unfortunately, there are no longer artisans weaving carpets in Ayvacık, underscoring the urgent need to protect this cultural legacy.