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Edirne

Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival is an annual tournament held in the Western Turkish city of Edirne. Wrestling competitions last for seven days and are generally held at the end of June each year and features local food, dances, wares and music.

Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival

Discover Edirne: Where History, Culture, and Nature Meet
 
 A Trip Through Time in Edirne
 
 Edirne, a city located in the northwestern corner of Türkiye, is a destination filled with remarkable history, vibrant traditions, and scenic beauty. A short journey from İstanbul, this historic city has played a pivotal role throughout history and continues to impress visitors with its landmarks and rich cultural heritage. Once the capital of the Ottoman Empire before the conquest of İstanbul, Edirne remains a place where past and present blend harmoniously. With architecturally magnificent mosques, centuries-old bridges, lively festivals, and delicious local cuisine, Edirne offers a unique experience to anyone eager to explore Türkiye beyond its well-known tourist spots. 
 
 Whether you are interested in architecture, local traditions, nature, or gastronomy, Edirne has something special to offer.
 
 
 Architectural Marvels and Historical Landmarks
 
 One of the most iconic structures in Edirne is the Selimiye Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between 1569 and 1575 by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, this masterpiece is considered the pinnacle of Ottoman mosque architecture. Its striking dome and slender minarets dominate the skyline, making it an unmissable sight for visitors.
 
 Beyond Selimiye Mosque, Edirne boasts other significant religious and historical sites such as the Eski Mosque and Üç Şerefeli Mosque, which showcase the city’s deep-rooted religious heritage. Walking through these structures, visitors can appreciate the intricate calligraphy, elegant domes, and finely detailed marble work that define Ottoman religious architecture.
 
 The city is also home to the Enez Ancient City, a fascinating archaeological site that reveals Edirne’s importance even before the Ottoman era. 
 
 The Edirne Archaeology and Ethnography Museum provides further insight into the civilizations that once thrived in this region, displaying artifacts from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods.
 
 Additionally, Edirne is known for its historical bridges, built across the Meriç, Tunca, and Ergene rivers. These Ottoman-era structures, such as the Meriç Bridge and Gazi Mihal Bridge, reflect the city’s architectural grandeur and provide scenic spots for leisurely walks, especially at sunset. 
 
 
 Festivals and Cultural Traditions
 
 Edirne is a city that celebrates its history and traditions through colorful festivals. Among its most famous events is the Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival, recognized as one of the world’s oldest continuously held sporting events. Dating back more than 650 years, this festival, which takes place in June or July, attracts thousands of spectators eager to witness Türkiye’s national sport.
 
 Another beloved tradition is the Kakava Festival, an annual celebration that marks the arrival of spring. Coinciding with Hıdırellez, a festival observed across the Turkic world, this lively event brings locals and visitors together for joyful celebrations, music, and dancing.
 
 One of Edirne’s unique customs is Bocuk Gecesi, observed in the village of Çamlıca. This ancient tradition, believed to date back to medieval times, involves locals dressing in eerie costumes and reenacting folk legends meant to ward off evil. Central to this tradition is the preparation of pumpkin dishes, which are believed to keep bad luck away.
 
 Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures
 
 Edirne is not just a city of historical monuments; it’s also natural beauty. The Saros Gulf along the Aegean coast is famous for its clear waters, sandy beaches and diving opportunities. İbrice Harbour in Saros Bay is one of the favourites of divers with almost 20 different underwater sites to discover.
 
 Nature lovers may love Gala Lake National Park. Spanning 6,000 hectares, this national park is home to rich biodiversity and many bird species making it a great spot for birdwatching and photography.
 
 For those who want to relax by the sea, Erikli Beach in Saros Bay is one of the top choices. With blue-flagged waters and unspoiled surroundings, this beach is a perfect escape from city life.
 
 
 The Flavours of Edirne
 
 Foodies may love Edirne a lot with its various flavours! Edirne is most famous for Edirne Liver (Tava Ciğeri), a dish made of thinly sliced and fried liver served with crispy fried peppers. This local specialty can be considered as a must-try for visitors who want to taste Edirne’s authentic cuisine.
 
 Edirne is also famous for its traditional almond paste (badem ezmesi), a sweet treat enjoyed with Turkish coffee. Local markets and bakeries offer a variety of regional treats that make perfect souvenirs for foodies.
 
 
 A City of Bridges and Coastline
 
 With many rivers flowing through the city, Edirne is known for its beautiful Ottoman-era bridges each with its own history. The Meriç Bridge built in the 19th century is one of the most photographed landmarks in the city. It’s stunning especially at sunset when the sun sets over the calm river.
 
 For those who want to escape to the coast, Edirne’s Erikli Beach and Saros Bay are the perfect retreats with crystal clear waters and soft sands. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe or just enjoy the scenery, Edirne’s beaches are the place to relax.
 
 
 Why Edirne Should be on Your Travel List
 
 Edirne is a city where history, culture and nature meet. Its monuments, festivals and landscapes make it a must-visit destination for travellers who want to experience it all.
 
 From the majesty of Selimiye Mosque to the ancient streets of Enez, from the vibrancy of Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling to the peacefulness of Saros Gulf, Edirne has it all. Whether you’re drawn to history, adventure or food, this city may give you an experience that will show you one of the bests of Türkiye.
 
 Book your trip to Edirne and get lost in a city where every corner has a story to tell. Whether you walk through its centuries old mosques, participate in its unique festivals or enjoy its stunning nature, Edirne will probably leave a mark. This is a city to welcome you with open arms and give you an experience that may be both enriching and unforgettable for a lifetime.
 
 So if you are interested, why not check your schedule right now and book a ticket to Türkiye? There are so many places to experience!

Enjoy at the centre of tradition at the Kirkpinar Wrestling Area in Edirne, Türkiye—a lively cultural hub where the world’s longest-running sports competition, the Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival, comes to life every summer. As the verdant fields of Edirne burst with energy and fervor, you’ll witness an ancient sport that is much more than physical competition; it’s a cherished emblem of Türkiye’s rich cultural heritage.
 
 Feel the pulse of the cheering crowds and the strength of the athletes as they engage in a everlasting ritual that has been passed down through centuries. Amid the festive atmosphere, the Kirkpinar Wrestling Area invites you to enjoy not only the exhilaration of the sport but also the warm, genuine hospitality that Türkiye is known for.
 
 Located in Edirne—a city famed for architectural masterpieces like the Selimiye Mosque and the Old Mosque—the wrestling area serves as a gateway to exploring the region’s historic treasures and savoring its delectable cuisine. Let the sights, sounds, and flavors of Edirne captivate you as you Visit a world where tradition and modernity dance in perfect harmony.
 
 Enjoy the unforgettable energy of Kirkpinar Wrestling in Edirne, Türkiye, and let the spirit of this ancient festival wrap you in its friendliness and charm.

Immerse yourself in the heart of tradition and festive atmosphere at the Kirkpinar Wrestling Area in Edirne, Türkiye! A global magnet for intrepid travelers and cultural enthusiasts, the Kirkpinar Wrestling Area hosts the Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival, the longest-running sports competition in the world, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Every summer, the verdant fields of Edirne explode with the energy and vigor of this ancient sport, painting a fascinating contrast against the serene, historical landscape.  A visit here allows you to step into a vibrant tapestry of history spun from centuries-old traditions. Feeling the pulse of the crowds and the strength of the athletes, you'll understand why Kirkpinar Wrestling is more than a sport; it's a cherished part of Türkiye's cultural heritage. Brought to life with cheers, music, and revelry, the wrestling area is a thrilling spectacle that encapsulates the spirit and camaraderie of the people of Türkiye.  But Kirkpinar Wrestling Area isn't just about the sport. Nestled in the city of Edirne, it’s also a gateway to exploring a patchwork of architectural masterpieces like the Selimiye Mosque and the Old Mosque, delectable cuisine, and the warm, Turkish hospitality.  So, get ready for an unforgettable cultural adventure! Choose Kirkpinar Wrestling Area in Edirne, Türkiye. Experience firsthand the pulsating energy of Kirkpinar wrestling, the marvels of Edirne city, and soak in the richness of Turkish culture. Let Türkiye wrap you in its warmth and charm!

Kirkpinar Wrestling Area

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The Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival holds the Guiness Book of Records title for the longest consecutively held sporting event in the world. In 2010 the festival was also added to UNESCO&rsquo;s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The festival traces its roots back to 1360s when Ottoman Sultan Orhan (1326-1362), sought to keep his soldiers in top physical condition and battle ready. Today master wrestlers or Pehlivans are trained in the art of wrestling and must possess demonstrated good or moral character traits in order to be invited. The pehlivans are invited to the festival by the Kırkpınar Ağası (Kırkpınar Master) based on their personal qualities and skills. Admittance to the festival is not taken lightly, invitations are made by the Kırkpınar Ağası in the same traditional way they have been for centuries past: by sending a candle with a red base to the nominated pehlivans at the beginning of March.

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Once at the festival, the pehlivans and other participants, decked out in their leather trousers or &ldquo;kispet&rdquo; will first join in Friday prayers. The prayers at the start of the festival carry special importance as the mark of commencement and cloak the festival and its participants in a sacred blessing.
Following prayers, the festival moves to its traditional location in Sarayi&ccedil;i, one of Edirne&rsquo;s most important recreational destinations, steeped in history of the event and a key symbol of the city. Every year, on this spot, around 2.000 men compete for the title of Başpehlivan (Chief Wrestler). The winner of three consecutive festivals is awarded the golden belt, the highest honor possible.

Before the wrestling gets underway each man is covered in olive oil by the &ldquo;yağcı&rdquo; (oiler). Then the two opponents walk into the &ldquo;er meydanı&rdquo; (Field of Contest) to the traditional sounds of 20 zurna (folk oboes) and 20 davul (bass drums), where they observe the peşrev, the ritual beginning of the match. Each pehlivan takes three steps forward, then three steps back, followed by the left knee to the ground, then the right hand touches the right knee, then the lips and forehead three times.
The last step is leaping forward and shouting &ldquo;Hayda bre pehlivan!&rdquo; (Bring it on, wrestler!) and the wrestlers fall into their grip-stance. The goal of the match is to pin your opponent&rsquo;s back to the ground, force him to sit, pull down his trousers or carry him with 3 steps, without contact with the ground. Judges are watching closely to see that the rules are observed or if the wrestlers have succeeded in making their opponent concede.

This festival is a highly recommended celebration of a truly unique tradition. From traditional oil wrestling, to traditional singing, dancing and feasting, Kirkpinar is a must-attend for any visitor!