A Journey into Antalya’s Leather Culture – The Charm of Traditional Craftsmanship with Kilikya Palace

6 November 2025

Antalya has long been one of the most significant centres of traditional culture—not only for its deep-blue sea and captivating tourism, but also for its centuries-old craftsmanship. Among these cultural heritages, leather craftsmanship holds a prominent place.

Thanks to its natural environment and its long history as a home to various civilisations, Antalya has one of Anatolia’s strongest traditions of leather processing.

Kilikya Palace offers its guests not only a comfortable holiday, but also a unique opportunity to discover the cultural fabric of the region. This blog serves as a guide to understanding the roots of leather culture in Antalya, the craftsmanship preserved in its villages, and why leatherwork still holds an important place today.

What Is Leatherworking? The Journey of an Ancient Craft

Leatherworking is the art of transforming animal hides into durable, long-lasting and aesthetically valuable products. Historically, leather was used for clothing, shelter, protective materials and even warfare equipment.

Over time, its aesthetic role became more prominent, turning into a key raw material for a wide range of products—from garments to accessories, bags to shoes.

At its core, leatherworking reflects patience, mastery, handcraftsmanship and a deep respect for nature. For this reason, it is regarded not just as a production process, but as a cultural and artistic heritage.

Leather Culture in Antalya: A Craft Centre in Southern Anatolia

Antalya is one of the regions where leatherworking is widely practised, thanks to its geographical location, climate and its historical role on ancient trade routes.

Ottoman-era leather guilds, processing methods formed through centuries of Mediterranean trade, and the craftsmanship passed down from generation to generation all form the foundations of Antalya’s leather culture.

Traditional leather workshops in Antalya continue to produce with both modern techniques and methods inherited from the past. This craftsmanship culture is still kept alive in many villages across the region.

Villages in Antalya Known for Leatherworking

Several villages in Antalya are especially known for their leather craftsmanship.

In these villages, traditional production continues as a family profession. Masters meticulously carry out stages such as cutting, tanning, softening and shaping the leather.

Regions that stand out in leatherworking include:

  • Döşemealtı – Known for its small workshops specialising in traditional production.
  • Rural areas of Serik – Home to many experienced leather masters.
  • Korkuteli and Elmalı countryside – Preserve traditional tanning culture due to widespread livestock farming.
  • Manavgat villages – Many families have practised leatherworking for generations.

The leather craftsmanship in these villages relies entirely on handmade, natural processes. Some masters also introduce traditional methods to visitors in their own small workshops.

Why Is Leather Culture Important?

Preserving and sustaining leather culture carries great historical and social significance. The main reasons include:

  1. Continuity of Cultural Memory
    Leatherworking has been a core part of Anatolian life for thousands of years. Keeping this craft alive helps maintain a connection with the past.
  2. Respect for Handcraftsmanship
    In contrast to modern mass-consumption habits, handmade products preserve uniqueness and cultural value.
  3. Economic Contribution
    Leather workshops in rural areas contribute directly to local economic development.
  4. Sustainability
    When processed using natural and eco-friendly techniques, genuine leather becomes one of the most sustainable materials.

Kilikya Palace: Inviting Guests to Experience Antalya’s Leather Heritage

Kilikya Palace transforms your holiday into an opportunity not only to relax but also to explore the cultural depth of the region. Through the hotel’s concierge services, special tours to the workshops of Antalya’s leather masters can be organised, giving guests the chance to witness local production first-hand.

Additionally, the regional artworks displayed within the hotel, decorative details inspired by Anatolian crafts and the warm atmosphere of Mediterranean culture offer guests a unique experience.

A Living Culture in the Heart of Antalya

Leather culture is one of the most valuable heritages that shape Antalya’s identity. Both the craftsmanship preserved in its villages and the historical fabric of the city turn leatherworking into not just a profession, but a way of life.

As one of Kemer’s finest 5-star hotels, Kilikya Palace supports this cultural richness and offers guests an unforgettable opportunity to explore this timeless tradition.

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Discover Local Beverages During Your Holiday in Turkey, You’ll Love Every Sip: Tea

26 September 2025

Antalya, one of Turkey’s most popular holiday destinations, offers an unforgettable holiday experience to both local and foreign tourists throughout the year.

With its breathtaking Mediterranean views, azure sea, golden beaches, and wide range of hotels, Antalya is a favourite among holidaymakers of all ages. In particular, Antalya’s all-inclusive hotel concept brings together the comfort and enjoyment holidaymakers seek under one roof.

One of the leading establishments in this regard is Kilikya Palace, one of Kemer’s most prestigious hotels. At Kilikya Palace, which operates on an all-inclusive concept, tea service is available throughout your holiday: with Turkish breakfast, during the special afternoon hour, after dinner, or at any time during the day. Even those new to tea enjoy it, whether brewed or steeped.

The Appeal of All-Inclusive Hotels in Antalya

Thanks to its strong tourism infrastructure, Antalya is one of the cities that most successfully offers the all-inclusive concept. With all-day buffet meals, unlimited drinks, entertainment, sports activities, and nightlife, holidaymakers do not have to worry about any details during their stay.

This system is particularly convenient for families; there are areas where children can play safely, while adults can relax with a wide range of services.

Antalya all-inclusive hotels also cater to different budgets and expectations. With options ranging from boutique-scale comfortable facilities to huge holiday villages, everyone can find their own holiday style.

Kemer: The Capital of Family-Friendly Holidays

One of Antalya’s most popular regions, Kemer is known for its natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. With its pine-forested beaches, azure bays, and historical charm, Kemer allows holidaymakers to enjoy a peaceful holiday surrounded by nature.

Kemer’s family-friendly hotels offer a significant advantage for families with children. Thanks to kids’ clubs, water parks, playgrounds, and safe beach arrangements, parents can relax and enjoy their holiday while children have fun-filled and educational activities.

Kemer is also a rich region for cultural and historical tours. Many important attractions, such as the ancient city of Phaselis, Olympos, and the Tahtalı Mountain Cable Car, offer holidaymakers different experiences.

Kilikya Palace: Where Comfort and Luxury Meet

One of Kemer’s most exclusive accommodation options, Kilikya Palace stands out with its all-inclusive concept and family-friendly service approach. The hotel, which stands out with its beachfront location, offers its guests the opportunity to reach the cool waters of the Mediterranean in just a few steps.

Kilikya Palace appeals to both couples and large families with its spacious and airy rooms. Offering a relaxed atmosphere with its modern design, the rooms with balconies treat guests to unique sunset views.

The hotel features buffet restaurants, à la carte options serving flavours from world cuisines, and beach bars. You can enjoy sweet snacks accompanied by fresh tea and coffee throughout the day and experience unique examples of Mediterranean cuisine.

Tea Time and Tea Set Presentations

Tea, an indispensable part of Turkish culture, also has a special place in the holiday atmosphere. Kilikya Palace welcomes its guests with tea throughout the day. The tea service, especially when served in the garden or on the terrace overlooking the sea, becomes one of the most enjoyable moments of the holiday.

From morning breakfast to evening chats, from entertaining guests to work breaks, tea is an indispensable drink that accompanies every moment of life. A warm cup of tea not only quenches thirst but also symbolises sharing, hospitality and sincerity.

In Turkish culture, tea is the starting point of friendships and an indispensable companion to family gatherings. Although there are different brewing techniques in every corner of Anatolia, strong tea served in thin-stemmed glasses represents a common taste. Whether in tea houses, workplaces or living rooms, offering tea is the warmest way to say ‘welcome.’

‘Tea time’ holds a special place in Turkish culture. Afternoon chats with friends, accompanied by homemade biscuits and pastries, create the most enjoyable moments of the day. This special time is not just about food but also a ritual of socialising and finding peace.

In Turkey, tea is much more than just a beverage. A symbol of culture, hospitality, and sharing, tea has continued to add warmth to the flow of life for centuries.

The tea served in our hotel, accompanied by elegant tea sets, makes conversations more intimate and moments of relaxation more peaceful. This small but thoughtful detail demonstrates the hotel’s commitment to guest satisfaction.

Kilikya Palace for an Unforgettable Holiday in Antalya

Kilikya Palace makes your holiday unforgettable not only with relaxation but also with entertainment and sports activities. Poolside parties, live music events, animation shows, a kids’ club and aquapark add colour to the holiday of guests of all ages. For sports enthusiasts, there are many options such as a fitness centre, tennis courts, beach volleyball and water sports.

The SPA and wellness section is ideal for those who want to relax. Guests are rejuvenated both mentally and physically with traditional Turkish baths, saunas and massage services.

Kilikya Palace, which offers both comfort and quality among all-inclusive hotels in Antalya, more than meets the expectations of holidaymakers. An ideal destination for both couples and families, the hotel also holds a strong position in the Kemer family-friendly hotels category.

The all-inclusive concept, elegant tea service, extensive entertainment options, and the unique Mediterranean landscape combine to transform your holiday into much more than just a stay. If you are looking for an unforgettable holiday in Antalya, Kilikya Palace awaits you.

Small Gifts to Take Home from Turkey: Nazar Beads

20 February 2025

Nazar bead, which has an important place for Turkish communities in history, is a symbol believed to get rid of bad energy. It is believed to be protected from bad eyes, energy and words when wearing the Nazar bead, which continues its existence in the culture of the Turks, which is a traditional heritage.

Dating back to 3300 BC, the nazar bead had a very important place in Mesopotamian civilisations. This bead, which the oldest findings obtained from the findings in Mesopotamia, is thought to keep evil spirits away from the people living at that time.

The nazar bead, which is believed to ward off the bad energy of the blue colour, was also found in Ancient Egypt, where talismans used for a similar purpose were found.

In Greek and Roman mythology, blue beads, which are believed to be protected from nazar in the same way; played a protective role in order to be removed from the concept of nazar.

When the Turks migrated from Central Asia to Anatolia, they brought the belief in the nazar with them. In the Pre-Islamic Period, various talismans were used to ward off evil spirits under the influence of Shamanism. The nazar bead has been accepted as one of these talismans and has survived until today. In the Ottoman Period, the use of nazar beads became widespread and was used in various art forms, household items and jewellery.

Characteristics of Nazar Bead Shape and Colours

Nazar bead, which is generally in the shape of an eye; It is believed to be designed with the idea that the eye is the window of the person opening to the world. Eye; It is the first exit point of all positive, negative, good, bad thoughts of the person towards the world. Eye to eye with a person can understand the emotions in that person’s thoughts, state and movements. Therefore, the gaze that comes eye to eye with the gaze can reflect their energy to the person opposite them.

It is believed that the nazar bead protects the person by attracting all this bad energy. At the same time, it was also believed that it brought good luck. The furnaces made for the nazar beads were opened with special ceremonies among the people and only the nazar beads were made from glass workmanship in these furnaces. For a real Nazar bead, it is not allowed to make anything else in its furnace, and the master reserves the furnace of the bead only for it.

The shape of the nazar bead is usually blue in colour and eye-shaped. In the centre there is a white circle and inside it a smaller black or dark blue circle. The outer part may be light or dark blue. This design gives the nazar bead an ‘eye’ like appearance.

The colour of the nazar bead; blue is a colour that is thought to have protective properties against evil. According to ancient beliefs, it absorbs and neutralises the evil energy of the nazar. The eye-shaped design provides protection by reflecting or scattering evil glances.

Nazar Beads Will Be the Luckiest Item You Will Bring with You When You Return from Your Holiday in Turkey!

Nazar bead, which symbolises thousands of years of belief, is believed to give luck and positive energy to its wearer because it collects evil spirits, moods and energy on it. Designed in the form of glass using many shades of blue throughout history, Nazar beads can be found as jewellery accessories such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings in Turkish markets. Or large versions can be used to hang at the entrance of the house, workplaces, cars or baby carriages.

When returning from your holiday in Turkey, you can give it as a gift to your loved ones to protect them from the evil eye. You can present the nazar bead, which is a popular gift for those who open a new workplace or new homeowners, especially for newborn babies, to your loved ones around you.

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