Thousands of carpets sunbathe at Turkish resort

Thousands of carpets and kilim rugs spread out in the sun form a festive and kaleidoscopic patchwork on the outskirts of Antalya, a coastal tourist city in southern Turkey.
From June to September, in harvested fields cleared of stubble, merchants bring their cargo to age in the sun, tempering the bright hues of their natural colours and ridding them of undesirable elements.
Hasan Topkara washed wool knotted carpets and rugs that come from across Turkey. He dries them, trims their fringes and stray strands if necessary, then spreads them out in the sunlight for three months, on the bare ground.
The wool, coloured with natural vegetable dyes, takes on pastel tones and softens between the morning dew and the heat of the day.
According to Topkara, in the past, up to 60,000 carpets were processed in each three month drying season in the Dosemealti district.

But today he is one of the last ones to do so, with around 15,000 carpets stored side by side on a 40-hectare (100 acre) area.
Around 50 workers watch them day and night, turning them regularly and monitoring the weather. About 100 people rush in from the surrounding villages to help fold the carpets if there is rain.
In 45 minutes, everything must be put away in a sheltered place, then brought out again once the rain has stopped.
Once they have reached the desired shade, most of the carpets are sent to Istanbul and its historic Grand Bazaar, from where they are frequently shipped abroad.
Over the years, Topkara's field of colours has become a tourist attraction, especially after Turkish pop singer Mabel Matiz recorded a video clip for his song 'Sarmasik' there in 2018.
Tracing history
Kilim rugs and carpets hold a special place in Turkey’s rich cultural tapestry, dating back thousands of years. These textiles are renowned for their vibrant patterns, durability, and symbolic motifs, serving both functional and decorative purposes across generations. Historians trace the origins of Turkish kilims to ancient Anatolian civilizations, where nomadic tribes meticulously handwoven these pieces using locally sourced wool and natural dyes. Each region developed its unique style, with motifs often representing spiritual beliefs, nature, and tribal identities.
Throughout history, kilims were more than just household items; they played vital social roles, used as dowries, gifts, and tokens of status. During the Ottoman Empire, the craft reached new heights, with Turkish artisans refining techniques that blended indigenous styles with influences from Persia and Central Asia. These rugs were traded along the Silk Road, further amplifying their significance and popularity.

In contemporary Turkey, kilim rugs remain a symbol of national pride and cultural identity. Their popularity is driven by a global resurgence in interest for artisanal, handcrafted products that emphasize sustainability and heritage. Tourists and collectors alike seek out authentic Turkish kilims for their aesthetic appeal and cultural authenticity, ensuring their place in homes worldwide. Moreover, local artisans and cooperatives have contributed to their preservation, combining traditional methods with modern designs to appeal to broader markets.
The country's growing tourist towns, especially in Cappadocia and Istanbul, showcase kilims in markets and galleries, fueling both local pride and economic development. Recent exhibitions and international fairs have spotlighted Turkey's textile arts, further elevating their stature globally. With their timeless beauty and cultural resonance, Turkish kilim rugs continue to be a captivating sight—a vibrant reminder of Turkey’s historical and artistic legacy.—AFP