Rug Weaving Traditions in Konya, Turkey

For centuries, rugs have played a vital role in the textile industry and continue to hold an important place in interior decoration. The Konya region of Turkey boasts a deep-rooted rug weaving tradition, with towns such as Ilgın-Yukarı Çiğil, Karaköy, Alibeyhüyuğu, Akören, Nuzumla, Karapınar-Yenikuyu, Hadim-Korualan, Çukurçimen, Kavak, and Kadınhanı-Saçkara renowned for producing high-quality handmade rugs.

Although rug weaving is not as widespread as it once was, the craft remains an integral part of Konya’s cultural heritage. Local artisans employ a variety of techniques, including the weft interlocking method for creating plain or striped designs, and the hooked rug technique for more intricate patterns. Other weaving styles such as cicim (cecem), zili (sili), and sumak are also commonly used in the region’s flatweave textiles.

Among the most distinctive types of Konya rugs are prayer rugs, easily recognizable by their mihrab design, symbolizing the direction of the Kaaba. Their backgrounds are often divided into horizontal or vertical panels, enriched with motifs representing the mihrab or belly.

Another popular form is the medallion rug. The number of medallions varies depending on the size of the piece, and they are typically rhombus- or hexagon-shaped. These central patterns are often framed by bold or narrow borders, giving each rug a strong visual rhythm.

Konya’s rug designs stand out for their distinctive local motifs, known by names such as nakış, yanış, and oyu. Many of these patterns originate from private collections and museum archives, yet they continue to inspire and appear in the carpets woven in modern Konya today.

The enduring art of rug weaving in Konya reflects not only exceptional craftsmanship but also a deep cultural continuity. Even as times change, the region’s traditional techniques and motifs remain influential in Turkey’s textile heritage.