Forgotten Traditions and Cultural Heritage in Kayseri

Kayseri’s Rich Cultural Heritage

Kayseri is one of the most historically rich cities in Anatolia, with deep-rooted traditions dating back to the Seljuk and Ottoman periods. The city’s architectural heritage, centuries-old customs, and rich folklore reflect its vibrant cultural past. However, many of these traditions are gradually disappearing over time.

In this article, we will explore forgotten traditions and cultural heritage in Kayseri that have been passed down for generations but are now fading away.

Forgotten Traditions in Kayseri

1. The Ahi Order and the Guild System

Kayseri was once an important center of the Ahi Order, a historical guild system that emphasized ethics, solidarity, and professional training among artisans and craftsmen. Apprentices trained under experienced masters, and special initiation ceremonies were held before they could become independent craftsmen.

Today, with the rise of modern trade practices, Ahi traditions have largely faded, but they are still commemorated during the Ahi Week celebrations in Kayseri.

2. Traditional Marriage Proposal and Salted Coffee

In the past, the marriage proposal ceremony in Kayseri was an important event, following strict traditions. When the groom’s family visited the bride’s home, the bride would serve them salted coffee as a playful test of the groom’s patience. If he drank it without complaint, it was seen as a good sign of his character.

Although this tradition still exists in some rural areas, modern marriage proposals are now simpler and less formal.

3. Funeral Traditions: The “Seventh” and “Fortieth” Day Meals

In Kayseri, it was once a tradition to hold commemorative meals on the seventh and fortieth days after a person’s passing. Family members and friends would gather to pray and share food in memory of the deceased.

While some families still continue this tradition, it has become less common in modern times.

4. Grape Harvest and Traditional Grape Juice (Şıra) Making

In rural areas of Kayseri, the grape harvest festival was once a major event. Families would gather to pick grapes and prepare grape molasses (pekmez) and traditional grape juice (şıra) using age-old methods.

Today, modern agricultural techniques have replaced this practice, and the communal aspect of the harvest has largely disappeared, although some villages still maintain the tradition.

5. Traditional Kayseri Weddings

Weddings in Kayseri used to last three days and three nights, featuring henna night, bridal procession, and folk dances with live drum and zurna (a traditional wind instrument). However, as modern wedding trends take over, many of these customs have been simplified or lost.

Cultural Heritage Sites in Kayseri That Need Preservation

Beyond its traditions, Kayseri is also home to remarkable historical landmarks that should be preserved. Some of the most important ones include:

• Gevher Nesibe Medical School and Hospital (One of the world’s first medical schools)
• Hunat Hatun Complex (A prime example of Seljuk architecture)
• Kayseri Castle and City Walls
• Talas Old Greek Quarter
• Sultanhan Caravanserai

These sites are invaluable pieces of Kayseri’s cultural heritage and need to be maintained for future generations.