Origin of the kilim

In Anatolia, the kilim has long held an essential place in daily life. Much more than a simple rug, it is the expression of a know-how passed down through generations, at the crossroads of nomadic traditions and sedentary cultures that have shaped this region.

A craft born from nomadic peoples

The first kilims appeared among the tribes that roamed the Anatolian plateaus. Weaving initially met a simple need: protecting the earthen floors of dwellings, insulating the inside of tents, serving as a blanket or a supply bag.
 Over time, these utilitarian pieces also become objects that convey identity. Each family, each tribe develops its own patterns, colors, and weaving techniques. The kilim then becomes a cultural marker, a sign of recognition, and a means of transmission.

Patterns that tell a story

The patterns on kilims are never chosen at random.
 They incorporate symbols rooted in Anatolian culture:

  • geometric shapes that evoke protection
  • signs related to fertility or family
  • depictions of protective animals
  • or even elements that evoke the cycles of nature

These woven designs bear witness to the daily life, beliefs and worldview of those who created them.

A manufacturing process linked to the territory

The wool used for kilims traditionally comes from local farms.
 It is spun and then dyed using natural pigments derived from plants, bark, roots or minerals.
 Each color, each shade depends on the terroir and resources of the region where the kilim was made.

Weaving, done on horizontal or vertical looms, requires patience and consistency. The result is a flat, lightweight, and above all unique rug: no two kilims are truly alike.

A legacy that lives on

Even today, kilim rugs continue to be woven with passion in several regions of Türkiye.

Although practices have evolved, traditional techniques endure and ancient motifs still inspire contemporary artisans.

Each kilim carries within it a part of its origin: a mixture of history, ancient gestures and natural materials that makes each piece a unique creation.