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Pottery Workshop
Turkey has a history of ceramic production reaching back thousands of years, from the primitive sculpture of prehistoric Anatolia to the ornaments and crockery of the Hittites. Since that time the quantity and quality of ceramics being produced in Turkey has continued to grow.
Due to its rich history of ceramic production, Turkey can be seen as the ‘land of ceramics’. These traditions have been colored by the many different civilizations that have evolved in the Anatolian region. In addition to this cultural history, geography has played an important role. The abundance of natural resources in Anatolia ensures high quality ceramic products and these raw materials are also exported for ceramic production outside Turkey.
As well as being a world leader in ceramic production, Turkey has some of the most sophisticated technology and innovative products on the market. Turkish ceramic producers work closely with some of the world’s most talented designers in order to create exciting new products that are both beautiful and functional.
The history of Anatolia can be seen as the history of ceramics. From the Hittites, Romans and Byzantines, to the Seljuqs and Ottomans, ceramics were a crucial aspect of everyday life. The versatility of ceramic as a material meant that techniques evolved and designs flourished to create pieces and products of functionality and ornamental beauty.
The Kizilirmak (Red River) is the slow-paced pulse of Avanos (Vanessa) and the unusual source of its livelihood; the distinctive red clay that, mixed with a white, mountain mud variety, is spun to produce the region’s famed pottery. Typically painted in turquoise or the earthy browns and yellows favored by the Hittites, the beautiful pieces are traditionally thrown by men and painted by women.
In our Classic Cappadocia Tour (Red Tour) and Red Plus Tour you can watch the artisan potters carrying on the traditions of their forefathers, using the same Hittite kick-wheel techniques that have been used for more than 4000 years, you will have a chance to try and learn the pottery making art.
