Scorching heat accelerates pastel shades of handwoven carpets in Antalya
The scorching temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in Antalya, particularly in the district of Döşemealtı, will expedite the pastel shades of thousands of handwoven carpets and kilims spread out in the fields.
- Agencies and A News / Life
- Published Date: 02:57 PM 20 July 2023
- Updated Date: 03:00 PM 20 July 2023
Döşemealtı, known for its handwoven carpets produced on traditional looms using root dyes derived from plants, hosts hundreds of acres of agricultural land where the carpets are made after harvesting the crops.
Famous Turkish carpets and kilims, woven on looms with yarns dyed with root dyes, are brought to the district from various parts of the country. First, they are washed, and then they are dried and undergo repairs.
The carpets are then spread out in the fields under the sun to be rid of any remaining microbes and to achieve a more pastel color. After days of hard work for the harvest, the same fields are now hosting the carpet-making process, where workers dedicate their time to weaving the carpets.
The agricultural fields where thousands of carpets are laid side by side also attract the attention of photography enthusiasts.
Ayşe Akbaba, the field supervisor of a carpet trading company in Killik , stated that for nearly 50 years, with the arrival of summer, "carpet fields" have started to form in the region.
Akbaba emphasized that they faced challenges due to the scorching temperatures in Antalya. She said, "The intense heat has been tough for both Antalya residents and our workers, but it has been beneficial for our carpets and kilims. It accelerated the maturation process and helped the colors set more quickly. The high temperatures will further enhance the pastel shades of our carpets. We are pleased with the heat for our carpets."
Akbaba mentioned that in recent years, they have hosted many visitors, including newlyweds who visit the carpet fields to take photos. The carpet fields have become a popular and picturesque spot for photography.