Boyra Weaving: Konya’s Living Tradition

Boyra is a centuries-old traditional craft of Konya, where reeds and wicker are skillfully woven to create durable rooftops for soil houses. The cogon grass used for the roofs and eaves is carefully harvested from the lakes and marshes surrounding the city, reflecting a deep connection between the craft and the local environment.

The process begins with preparing the reeds. Between September and October, they are collected, peeled, washed, bundled, and left to dry in the sun, readying them for weaving.

Weaving usually takes place in the shaded “Hayat” courtyards of houses or outdoors, where the dried reeds are split and meticulously arranged.

In Konya, two main weaving techniques are practiced:

Plain Weave Boyra: This traditional method is done on the ground without a bench. Reeds are placed diagonally, four to the right and four to the left, forming obtuse angles of 100–110 degrees. The weaving continues in the opposite direction while maintaining precision, ensuring the reeds remain intact.

Wired-Corded Boyra: Practiced in Akşehir Doğrugöz and Beyşehir, this technique uses vertical looms and galvanized wires to secure the reeds. Wires are threaded through the loom and attached to shuttles, allowing weavers to tightly fix the reeds in place. Once weaving is complete, the edges are folded inward to prevent unraveling, and the finished boyra mats are rolled and stored, ready for use.

Boyra weaving is more than a construction technique; it is a living heritage that connects Konya’s natural resources, traditional knowledge, and craftsmanship, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s cultural past.