Türkiye showcases national weaving heritage at Council of Europe exhibition

Türkiye is presenting its rich textile heritage on a prominent European platform with the opening of the "Türkiye Weaving Atlas - Memory of Fabric" exhibition at the Council of Europe headquarters in Strasbourg, France, running from January 26 to 30.

Organized under the patronage of First Lady Emine Erdoğan and hosted by the Turkish Delegation, the showcase coincides with the winter session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). This comprehensive presentation marks the first unified display of weaving techniques and traditions from all seven geographical regions of Türkiye, offering European audiences insight into centuries of accumulated cultural knowledge.

Sustainable Craftsmanship and Cultural Memory

The exhibition emphasizes traditional weaving as both a sustainable practice and a living repository of cultural identity. All displayed textiles utilize natural fibers and locally sourced materials produced through environmentally respectful, zero-waste methods that avoid industrial processes. This approach aligns with contemporary European dialogues on sustainability and cultural heritage preservation, positioning Turkish weaving as a relevant model of eco-conscious craftsmanship.

Political and Cultural Context

The event directly connects to PACE reports on cultural heritage and sustainability being prepared by Turkish Delegation member Zeynep Yıldız, who also serves on the PACE Culture Committee. Yıldız noted that the weaving atlas project represents a significant milestone in preserving intangible heritage, citing ongoing revitalization efforts for historical fabrics like Ankara sof through workshops in rural areas. She extended gratitude to First Lady Emine Erdoğan and the countless Turkish women whose skills are embodied in each exhibited piece.

Broader Implications for Heritage Preservation

By showcasing these traditions in Strasbourg, Türkiye underscores weaving's role as a vessel for collective memory and regional identity while contributing to international discussions about rural development and sustainable living. The exhibition demonstrates how traditional practices can inform modern sustainability goals, a theme Yıldiz plans to explore further in her forthcoming report on preserving Europe's rural cultures for the Council of Europe.