A Turkish Mosaic

Episode 98: In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, host Can Sinan is joined by returning guest Mehmet to explore the vibrant customs and traditions of Laz culture in Turkey. Delve into the lively atmosphere of Laz weddings, where music, dance, and colorful attire bring communities together in joyous celebration. Learn about the Vartivor festival, a summer event that reflects the agricultural roots of the Laz people, filled with traditional games, singing, and dancing. These rich traditions not only preserve the Laz identity but also contribute to the diverse cultural mosaic that defines Turkey. Join us as we uncover how these customs add depth and vibrancy to Turkey’s cultural heritage. https://lnkd.in/dMrKhWgs

Episode 97: In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, host Can Sinan welcomes back Mehmet to explore the enchanting world of Laz folklore. Delve into the rich tapestry of stories that have been passed down through generations, reflecting the Laz people's deep connection to nature and their surroundings. From mythical creatures like the giant bird Gveri and the mountain spirits Tsaner to heroic tales filled with moral lessons, Laz folklore offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Black Sea region. This episode also touches on the cultural festivals and efforts to preserve these ancient traditions, showcasing how they continue to enrich the broader Turkish cultural mosaic. Join us as we uncover the wisdom and magic woven into the tales of Laz folklore. https://lnkd.in/dG-vTjwz

Episode 96: In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, host Can Sinan welcomes back Mehmet to explore the vibrant cultural traditions of the Laz people, a community deeply rooted in the Eastern Black Sea region of Turkey. Dive into the energetic rhythms of Laz music, featuring the soulful sounds of the tulum and kemençe, and discover the communal spirit of the Horon, a traditional dance that brings people together in joyful celebration. Through these traditions, we uncover how Laz culture enriches the broader Turkish cultural mosaic, highlighting the diversity that makes Turkey's heritage so unique and dynamic. Join us as we celebrate the beauty of Laz culture and its significant place in Turkey’s cultural tapestry https://lnkd.in/dcBSn4wN

Episode 95: In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, we delve into the rich tradition of fishing in the Bosphorus Sea, a practice that has been integral to Istanbul's culture for centuries. Join host Can Sinan and guest Alp as they explore the history of fishing in the Bosphorus, the seasons that define its rhythm, and the variety of fish that are caught, including bluefish, bonito, and anchovy. Discover how these fish are prepared and served, reflecting the culinary heritage of the region. The discussion also touches on the impact of EU fishing regulations and how they balance the preservation of marine life with the livelihoods of local fishermen. Whether you're a lover of seafood or interested in cultural traditions, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and flavors of Istanbul. Join us as we cast our lines into the Bosphorus and reel in the stories of this vibrant tradition. https://lnkd.in/d-MWhZge

Episode 94: In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, we explore the rich history and cultural significance of Turkish Delight, known as Lokum. Join host Can Sinan and guest Alp as they delve into the origins of this beloved confection, its role in Turkish traditions, and why it remains a cherished treat both in Turkey and around the world. From its sweet presence at family gatherings to its appearance in Western literature, Turkish Delight is more than just a dessert—it's a symbol of hospitality, heritage, and warmth. Join us, listen, and savor the sweet taste of Turkish Delight. https://lnkd.in/dfBEGQtJ

Episode 93: Welcome back to another episode of A Turkish Mosaic, where we explore the fascinating layers of Turkey’s rich cultural and technological landscape. Today, we’re turning our gaze skyward to discuss a sector where Turkey has truly taken off—aviation and aerospace. Joining me to dive into this topic is Mert, an expert in aerospace engineering and a keen observer of Turkey’s technological advancements. https://lnkd.in/dXwPz9FF

Episode 92: In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, host Can Sinan is joined by Mert to explore Turkey's emerging leadership in renewable energy. As the nation invests heavily in wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, projects like the Keban Dam and the Karapınar Solar Power Plant highlight Turkey’s engineering prowess and commitment to sustainability. The discussion delves into how Turkish engineers are not only implementing cutting-edge technologies but also innovating within them to suit the country’s unique geographical conditions. Mert and Can discuss the challenges of integrating renewable energy into the existing grid, the economic and environmental benefits, and Turkey's alignment with global sustainability goals. Tune in to discover how Turkey is shaping the future of energy and contributing to a greener, more sustainable world. https://lnkd.in/dnU6eMM6

Episode 91: Today on "A Turkish Mosaic," we're shining a spotlight on the Laz people, an indigenous community nestled along the Eastern Black Sea coast of Turkey. With roots tracing back to the ancient Colchis civilization, the Laz have maintained a rich cultural heritage that includes their unique language, traditional music, and the energetic Horon dance. Their deep connection to the land is reflected in their agricultural practices, particularly tea and hazelnut farming, and their close ties to the sea. Despite facing challenges in preserving their language and traditions, the Laz people continue to be a vibrant part of Turkey’s cultural mosaic. Let’s discover and discuss the beauty and resilience of the Laz people! https://lnkd.in/dj9St4ty

Episode 90: The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, Turkey, holds immense historical and cultural significance, serving as a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the Byzantine Empire. Constructed in the 6th century under Emperor Justinian I, the cistern was a critical water reservoir for the Great Palace of Constantinople, ensuring the city’s survival during sieges. With its 336 marble columns, spanning a vast underground space, the cistern is a remarkable example of Byzantine engineering, blending functionality with grandeur.Today, the Basilica Cistern is a key tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who are captivated by its mysterious, atmospheric interior. The cistern’s unique blend of history, architecture, and eerie beauty provides a memorable experience, making it a must-visit site in Istanbul. Its importance for tourism lies not only in its historical value but also in its ability to connect visitors with the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul, offering a glimpse into the city’s past. The site’s preservation, supported by UNESCO as part of the Historic Areas of Istanbul, ensures that this ancient marvel continues to inspire and educate future generations, contributing to Istanbul’s global cultural appeal. Let’s discuss it! https://lnkd.in/dZzVyT3J

Episode 89: Welcome to another episode of A Turkish Mosaic, where we explore the rich tapestry of Turkey's history and culture. Today, we have a special returning guest, Batu, who will guide us through the fascinating history of the Grand Bazaar, an ancient trade center on the Silk Roads. We’ll delve into its origins, structure, contemporary usage, its significance as a major tourist attraction, and ongoing efforts by UNESCO to preserve this iconic site. Whether you enter from the Beyazit Gate, Nuruosmaniye Gate, Urgo Gate, or Sorguçlu Han Gate, the Grand Bazaar, or "Kapalı Çarşı" as it’s known in Turkish, is a must-see for anyone visiting Istanbul. https://lnkd.in/ghbWN7xG