Turkish Traditions

Boncuks "Evil Eyes"

Like any culture Turkey has its share of superstitions. The most prevalent superstitious tradition however is the Nazar Boncuk, or the "evil eye." This small glass amulet is believed to be a means of protection from others casting the "evil eye" upon you and the resulting bad luck that comes from it. These stones are seen everywhere in Turkey. People hang them in shops, cars and homes. They wear them as jewelry and mothers attach them to babies clothing. They are also sold to tourists in the form of necklaces, bracelets and key chains.

Zeybek Dancers

Folk dance traditions in Turkey vary region to region but are important in celebrating life's events such as weddings or sons going off to the military. The dancers wear colorful costumes that again vary depending on the dance and region.

When you're traveling in the Black Sea Region you might see the "Horon" dance. This traditional Turkish dance is performed by men only and is a very swift dance. Another popular dance tradition is the "Zeybek," a dance of courage in the Aegean Region.

Turkish Coffee Pot

Coffee is made traditionally in a small pot and served in small porcelain cups. Turkish coffee is made by combining water, sugar and finely ground coffee beans. The amount of sugar depends on the drinker's preferences. This is cooked together in the small pot until it boils. The drinking of coffee traditionally is not until almost noon and is always served after festive meals.

Do not drink the coffee fast as some cultures do because the grounds need to remain in the cup. The tradition is to enjoy the coffee by sips with good friends and family or in hospitality. Another coffee tradition is to tell fortunes by using the remaining coffee grounds when the liquid has been consumed.

Traditional Simit

A favorite food tradition in Turkey is a ring of baked dough covered by sesame seeds called Simit. This bread is found everywhere in Turkey all throughout the day. Vendors sell it from stacks they carry on their head of off of wooden poles. A good rule of thumb for a hungry traveler is buying from the vendors that have a large of Simit. Usually this means they just restocked with fresh bread. Markets also sell this traditional food of Turkey as well as cart vendors.