Antalya Carpet Fields

The carpet fields located in the Döşemealtı district of Antalya are a unique site where handwoven carpets and kilims collected from different regions of Türkiye are sun-dried and sterilized to enhance their colors. This method aims to naturally pastelize traditional carpets dyed with root dyes and eliminate harmful microorganisms.

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Seasonal Transformation: After the wheat harvest in summer, idle agricultural lands are converted into carpet fields. Carpets are typically exposed to sunlight from June to September.

Preparation: Handwoven carpets are washed and repaired before being laid out on the fields. They are turned over periodically to ensure even sun exposure.

Sterilization and Pastelization: In Antalya’s summer temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, the colors rapidly pastelize. This process also helps eliminate bacteria and larvae caused by moisture.

Transformation and Shipment: After sun exposure, the carpets are washed again in sterile pools, packaged, and shipped to numerous countries, primarily the United States.

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Land Use: Hundreds of hectares of land are used each season to lay out thousands of carpets, with numbers varying by period.

Contribution of Female Labor: Female labor is central at every stage of the carpet production process. Traditional knowledge is passed down to younger generations, from weaving to sun-drying.

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Tourist Interest: The vibrant color palette created by the carpet fields attracts both domestic and international tourists. They have become a popular filming location for photographers, filmmakers, and music video producers.

Motif Richness: The majority of carpets brought to Döşemealtı feature Yörük motifs. These patterns, harmonized with pastel tones, are presented as a cultural value.

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Commercial Use: Carpets are exported abroad, with some examples fetching prices up to 300,000 US dollars. This process contributes to the local economy by generating foreign exchange.

Decline of Traditional Production: In recent years, the decline in carpet and kilim weaving activities in villages has made it increasingly difficult to source products for the fields.

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