Sivas, a city in central Turkey, is a historical and cultural gem with origins dating back to ancient times. Known as Sebastea in antiquity, it was a significant center during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Its prominence grew during the Seljuk Empire in the 12th and 13th centuries, becoming a crucial hub on the Silk Road. The city’s architectural heritage from this era, including the Gök Medrese and the Buruciye Medrese, highlights its historical importance. Sivas also played a pivotal role in modern Turkish history with the Sivas Congress of 1919, where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk laid the groundwork for the Turkish War of Independence. Culturally, Sivas is renowned for its traditional crafts, especially in metalwork and textiles, and its vibrant folk music scene, particularly the aşık (minstrel) tradition. The city's cuisine, featuring dishes like Sivas kebab and Sivas katmeri, reflects its rich agricultural heritage. Sivas’s architectural marvels, traditional crafts, music, and cuisine encapsulate the essence of Turkish culture. As a testament to Turkey's historical and cultural evolution, Sivas continues to preserve its rich traditions, offering a bridge between the past and the present for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

Upon landing in Istanbul, or even before arrival, one of the first things to catch your eye is an evil eye bead. This cultural item has over 5,000 years of history and is still used nationwide, especially on a newborn baby, a brand new car, or even a newly built house to keep that bad energy away. Actually, not only in Turkey, the Turkish evil eye can be seen on bracelets, necklaces, and other forms of jewelry almost across the entire globe, especially among Jewish, Muslim, and Christian cultures. So, the jewelry shops aren’t the only places where you’ll see this symbol as a good number of Turkish people have it hanging up in their houses, shops, offices, and cars as a part of their life. Keep listening to find out more about this beautiful phenomenon as you might want to get as a pendant necklace or a bracelet. Before doing so, learn how it still impacts people and cultures today.

Today let’s learn about Elif Shafak was born on October 25, 1971, in Strasbourg, France, to a Turkish mother and a Turkish-British father. Her parents divorced when she was young, and she was raised by her mother, Şafak Atayman, a diplomat, which significantly influenced her worldview and exposed her to diverse cultures and languages. Shafak spent her childhood and teenage years in various cities, including Madrid, Amman, and Cologne, before settling in Turkey. This multicultural upbringing is reflected in her writing, which often explores themes of identity, belonging, and the intersection of Eastern and Western cultures.

In this episode of Turkish Mosaic, we delve into the vibrant and dynamic business culture between Turkey and Azerbaijan. Together, we will explore the historical, economic, and political ties that have shaped the strong partnership between these two nations. From the early recognition of Azerbaijan's independence by Turkey in 1991 to the flourishing economic cooperation in sectors like construction, education, tourism, and energy, this episode offers an insightful look into how shared history and mutual respect have fostered robust bilateral relations. Tune in to learn about the key agreements, trade dynamics, and the future potential of this strategic alliance, highlighting the importance of cultural and economic exchanges in strengthening the bond between Turkey and Azerbaijan.

Travel with us to Ephesus, located on the western coast of Turkey, boasts a rich and unique history that spans several millennia. Founded in the 10th century BCE, it became a  thriving Greek city-state and later flourished under Roman rule as a major trade hub. Ephesus was renowned for its architectural marvels, including the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the impressive Library of Celsus. The city played a pivotal role in the early spread of Christianity, with notable visits from St. Paul and St. John, who is believed to have written his Gospel here. Ephesus' grand theaters, bustling marketplaces, and intricate street designs reflect its cultural and economic significance  in ancient times. Despite natural disasters and geopolitical shifts leading to its decline, Ephesus remains one of the most well-preserved ancient cities, offering a captivating glimpse into the civilizations of the past. Travel with us to Ephesus, on the western coast of Turkey, which has a rich and unique history spanning several millennia!

Horses have been central to Turkish culture for centuries, dating back to the early Turks in Central Asia who first domesticated them. This deep bond facilitated migrations and conquests, helping Turks establish and expand their empires. Horses symbolize nobility, strength, and endurance in Turkish society, and they are celebrated through art, literature, and folklore. Traditional equestrian sports like Cirit and mounted archery showcase the Turks' historical martial skills.

In contemporary Turkey, horseback riding remains popular, with riding schools and clubs promoting the sport. In rural areas, horses are still used for agriculture and transportation, and their therapeutic benefits are increasingly recognized. The enduring presence of horses in festivals and daily life underscores their cultural significance and the profound respect they command in Turkish society.

Join us for an enlightening episode that celebrates the enduring friendship and
cultural kinship between Turkey and Azerbaijan. Whether you are a history buff, a
language enthusiast, a foodie, or simply curious about different cultures, this episode
offers something for everyone. By the end of this journey, you'll have a deeper
appreciation of how these two nations, though separated by borders, are united by
shared history, culture, language, and traditions.

Tune in to "A Turkish Mosaic" and discover the rich tapestry that binds Turkey and
Azerbaijan together, proving that they are indeed brothers beyond borders.

In this episode, we explore Nowruz, the ancient festival that marks the arrival of spring and the Persian New Year, celebrated widely across Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Rooted in Zoroastrian traditions, Nowruz symbolizes renewal, growth, and the enduring cycle of life, bringing together diverse communities in a vibrant celebration of hope and unity. We delve into the customs, foods, dances, and rituals that make Nowruz a unique cultural event, from the setting of the haft-seen table to the symbolic acts of cleansing and forgiveness. Our guests, including cultural historians and festival participants, share the significance of Nowruz in their lives and the ways it continues to bridge generations. Join us as we celebrate this season of renewal and resilience, uncovering how Nowruz fosters a spirit of togetherness and cultural pride across borders.

In the episode, host Can Sinan and guest Ahmet Mert delve into the life and legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, focusing on his profound humanism. The discussion begins with a deep dive into Atatürk’s personal life, shedding light on his marriage and the significance of his adopted children, portraying his compassionate and progressive outlook. The episode brilliantly covers Atatürk’s contributions to environmental conservation, highlighting his establishment of national parks as a testament to his respect for nature and his visionary approach to sustainability.

In this episode, we delve into Mustafa Kemal Ataturk's early life and explore the influences that shaped the future founder of modern Turkey. This episode highlights how these early experiences influenced Ataturk's vision of a secular, independent, modern Turkey. By understanding the roots of his revolutionary ideas, listeners will gain deeper insights into the man who would become a pivotal figure in the 20th century, shaping the course of Turkish history and inspiring future generations. Sit down with us, and open your ears and heart to learn about this living legend.