CULTURE

Turkey boasts a rich tapestry of historical, cultural, and intellectual achievements, with numerous individuals leaving an indelible mark on the world stage. From visionary leaders and renowned poets to architectural geniuses and trailblazing feminists, these famous Turks have made significant contributions to their respective fields and continue to inspire generations. Join us on a captivating journey as we delve into the lives and legacies of influential Turkish figures such as Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Rumi, Mimar Sinan, Nazım Hikmet, Fatma Aliye Topuz, Orhan Pamuk, Leyla Gencer, and many more. Explore their achievements, discover their impact, and celebrate their invaluable contributions to Turkey's vibrant cultural heritage. Through their stories, we gain a deeper understanding of Turkey's diverse and remarkable history and the enduring legacy of these extraordinary individuals.

The Turkish film industry has been a thriving bastion of cinema for decades, producing films that are as diverse as they are engaging. While Turkish drama has received global recognition, the country's comedy films have often been overshadowed. However, the 2019 film 'You've Got The Murder' (Cinayet Süsü) directed by Ali Atay, boldly steps into the spotlight, proving that Turkish comedy can be as gripping and entertaining as any drama, while cleverly intertwining elements of crime and mystery. In this review, we delve into the chaotic and hilarious world of 'You've Got The Murder', a delightful departure from traditional crime films that brilliantly showcases the charm of Turkish comedy.

Traditional games have always played a significant role in shaping a culture's leisure activities and fostering social connections. Turkish traditional games are no exception, reflecting the country's rich history and love for strategic thinking, competition, and social interaction. In this exploration of Turkish traditional games, we will delve into the captivating world of Mangala, Tavla, and Okey, highlighting their origins, gameplay, and enduring popularity.

Turkish folklore is a captivating realm filled with ancient tales, mythical creatures, and larger-than-life characters that have been passed down through generations. It is a treasure trove of rich oral traditions that reflect the cultural heritage of the Turkish people. In this exploration of Turkish folklore, we will dive into the enchanting world of tales and characters, immersing ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of mythology, superstition, and moral lessons that define this captivating folklore.

Turkey is a country with a diverse and vibrant cultural heritage, and traditional dances play a vital role in celebrating its rich traditions and captivating history. These dances are not only a form of artistic expression but also a way to connect with the country's ancestral roots, tell stories, and express emotions. In this exploration of Turkish traditional dances, we will delve into three iconic dances: the enchanting belly dance (Oryantal), the lively folk dance Halay, the spirited Zeybek dance and Whirling.

Turkish carpet weaving is an ancient craft that dates back thousands of years. It is a unique art form that has been passed down from generation to generation, and it remains an important part of Turkey's cultural heritage today. Turkish carpets are known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, and they are prized around the world for their beauty and quality. In this article, we will explore the history and significance of Turkish carpet weaving and how it has evolved over time.

'Mortal World' / 'Ölümlü Dünya' is a remarkable and highly influential film within the genre of absurd comedy in Turkish cinema. Released in 2018, it marked the directorial debut of Ali Atay, a prominent figure in Turkey's comedy scene. The film garnered critical acclaim and achieved commercial success, solidifying its place as a significant work in the country's cinematic landscape.As a director, Ali Atay brought his unique comedic sensibilities and storytelling prowess to 'Mortal World' Known for his sharp wit and ability to tackle complex social issues through humor, Atay crafted a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The film brilliantly blends absurdity, satire, and dark humor to create a distinct cinematic experience.

In the realm of international cinema, few directors have left as indelible an imprint as Ferzan Özpetek. Born in Turkey and honed in Italy, his unique cultural perspective has given birth to a plethora of films that traverse boundaries and touch the heartstrings of audiences globally. Özpetek's works, replete with rich narratives and complex characters, are celebrated for their exploration of themes such as identity, sexuality, and history. In this article, we delve into the life and career of Ferzan Özpetek, highlighting his cinematic journey from his initial foray into filmmaking to his most recent endeavours.

Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, a dynamic duo better known as Mert and Marcus, have redefined the contours of fashion photography, pushing boundaries and challenging the norm with their visionary creativity. They have carved a unique niche for themselves in an industry teeming with talent, creating iconic images that blend artistry with commercial appeal.

Refik Anadol is a visionary Turkish artist and designer, known for his groundbreaking work that combines data, artificial intelligence, and digital media to create mesmerizing, immersive installations. His innovative approach to art transcends traditional boundaries, offering a unique perspective on the convergence of technology and human creativity. In this article, we will explore Anadol's artistic journey, his unique approach to art, and some of his most iconic projects!

7. Koğuştaki Mucize, also known as Miracle in Cell No. 7, is a 2019 Turkish drama film that tells the story of a man named Memo and his daughter Ova, who are separated from each other due to a wrongful accusation. Directed by Mehmet Ada Öztekin, the film explores themes of love, family, and justice, while also highlighting the discrimination and challenges faced by the disabled community in Turkey.

Turkish music, with its rich history and unique sound, has captivated audiences for centuries. Drawing from diverse influences, including Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and European traditions, Turkish music blends various genres and styles to create a distinct sound. It is no wonder that many global artists have found inspiration in Turkish songs, adapting and transforming them into hits across various languages and cultures. Here are some of these iconic songs and the Turkish melodies that inspired them.

'Ahlat Ağacı' (The Wild Pear Tree) is a critically acclaimed Turkish drama film directed by Nuri Bilge Ceylan. The film was released in 2018 and premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received widespread praise from critics and audiences alike. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at 'Ahlat Ağacı,' exploring its themes, characters, and impact on the world of cinema.

Released in 2015, Mustang is a French-Turkish drama film directed by Deniz Gamze Ergüven. The film follows the story of five orphaned sisters who are sent to live with their strict and conservative uncle and grandmother in a small Turkish village after being caught playing with boys on the beach. As the girls struggle to adapt to their new lives and their family's traditional values, they begin to rebel against the strict patriarchal norms imposed upon them. Mustang is a powerful and poignant exploration of female empowerment, sisterhood, and the struggle for freedom in a repressive society. In this essay, we will examine the themes, characters, and cinematic techniques employed in Mustang to understand its impact and significance.

Laughter is a universal language that brings people together, and Turkish comedies are no exception. From slapstick to satire, Turkey has a long tradition of producing comedic movies that have made audiences laugh out loud for decades. Turkish comedies are known for their witty humor, relatable characters, and clever social commentary. In this article, we'll explore the 10 best Turkish comedies that have entertained audiences and made them laugh for years.