Respect for Nature, Preservation of Culture

Activities organized in cooperation with Bornova Municipality and Bornova City Council highlighted the history, traditions, and nature-centered lifestyle philosophy of the Tahtacı Turkmens—one of Anatolia’s deeply rooted communities. The program, which drew an enthusiastic audience, featured traditional Tahtacı Alevi rituals, a documentary screening, and a talk emphasizing the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage.

Traditional Ritual: A Diseased Tree Removed, Three Saplings Planted

As part of the program, a diseased tree in the garden of Bornova Municipality’s Hobby and Skill Development Center was cut down in accordance with Tahtacı Alevi traditions. Following the cutting, three saplings were planted—symbolizing respect for nature and the continuity of life.

“From the Mediterranean to the Aegean: Tahtacılar” Documentary Screened in Bornova

The event at Bornova Municipality Nevzat Kavalar Cultural Center featured the screening of “From the Mediterranean to the Aegean: Tahtacılar,” directed by Uğurcan Taylan Adıyaman. After the screening, producer Birol Soylu and Chairman of the Tahtacılar Cultural Associations Federation Yolcu Bilginç took part in a conversation on the historical origins of Tahtacı Alevi culture and its bond with nature.

Homeros statuettes symbolizing Bornova were presented to the speakers. Former CHP İzmir MP and former Mayor of Bornova, Prof. Dr. Kamil Okyay Sındır, and former Mayor of Çiğli, Utku Gümrükçü, also attended the event.

Sındır: “These documentaries keep our culture alive”

Prof. Dr. Kamil Okyay Sındır emphasized the richness of Tahtacı culture, saying:
“History and culture are essentially Tahtacı culture. We once again learned how meaningful it is. As we urbanize, distancing from culture becomes inevitable. That’s why documentaries that preserve such heritage are incredibly valuable. I thank our Municipality, City Council, and everyone who contributed.”

Soylu: “Tahtacı culture expresses deep respect for nature”

Producer Birol Soylu thanked the contributors and said:
“Tahtacı Turkmen Alevi tradition is not just a way of life but a profound expression of respect toward nature. We are here today to understand and share that connection.”

Bilginç: “We must protect our thousands-year-old heritage”

Yolcu Bilginç underlined the universal values of the culture, stating:
“Our people are becoming alienated from their own culture. Yet we carry a cultural treasure dating back thousands of years. Native Americans pray when cutting a tree; similarly, we have rituals originating from Central Asia. We must not forget this universality.”

Call for cultural cooperation

Bornova City Council Chairman Av. Doğan Baran Mengüş and Bornova Municipality Press, Publication and Public Relations Director İlyas Aydınalp emphasized the importance of strengthening cultural cooperation between local governments and civil society organizations.

A cultural journey with folk songs

To conclude the night, Yolcu Bilginç—also a folk musician—performed a selection of Anatolian Turkmen and Alevi folk songs. Attendees experienced both an emotional and cultural journey.