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the history of peshtemal

One of the best ways to learn a bit about Turkish culture is through the use of a traditional peshtemal. Did you know the Turkish towel, or “peshtemal,” has been a part of Turkey’s history for hundreds, perhaps even a thousand, years? So let’s go back in time and learn a bit about this very important fashion and cultural staple from Turkey’s history – the peshtemal.

When the Ottoman Empire came into being around the end of the 13th century, the Peshtemal — as we know it today — was created. Before that, towels had been somewhat plain and often poorly made. Then the peshtemal came into being, forever changing the way people viewed towels. The royalty of the Ottoman Empire did everything in style, and Peshtemals were certainly no exception! Because of them, Turkish towels became a status symbol.

Also, it is important to note that Turkish towels have been used for centuries in Turkish bath houses, commonly known as “hammams.” These lovely towels were originally created for the purpose of privacy for those using these public facilities, which included hot steam rooms (similar to the saunas of today,) as well as colder water for the actual process of taking a bath.

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However, in Turkey’s history and culture, the Turkish towel, or ‘hammam’, is far more than simply a bath towel. Did you know that Turkish towels were once used in the ceremonial bath a lovely young bride would take before her wedding? Also, when a couple from the Turkish aristocracy was going to be wed, they might be given the gift of a ceremonial bath kit. This would include a special type of soap, a pumice stone, a bowl made of copper for the bath, and — of course — a set of peshtemals. One peshtemal was meant to be wrapped around the shoulders, while the other was to be worn around the waist. This was not unlike the way engaged couples are given special gifts today before they are married. The Turkish towel was often used in many other ceremonies in a person’s life, as well. This gives us a simple idea of how important the Turkish towel has been in the cultural life of the people of Turkey through the ages.

As you can tell, peshtemals are intricately woven into the history and culture of Turkey; just as the excellent materials are woven together by Turkish artisans to create this most amazing piece of beautiful and luxurious

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