Turkish oil wrestling, known as yağlı güreş in Turkish, is one of the oldest and most respected sports in Turkey, with a history spanning over 650 years. This unique and traditional form of Turkish wrestling is not only a competitive sport but also a significant cultural heritage that embodies the strength, endurance, and skill of its participants, known as Turkish oil wrestlers.
Turkish oil wrestling, or yağlı güreş, involves Turkish wrestlers who cover themselves in olive oil before their matches. This tradition of oiled up men makes it incredibly challenging to get a firm grip on the opponent, adding a strategic and technical dimension to the sport. The wrestlers wear specially crafted leather pants called kispet, made from water buffalo or cowhide, which extend from the waist to just below the knees. The combination of oil and leather creates a unique and demanding environment for the wrestlers.
The Rules of Turkish Oil Wrestling
The Turkish oil wrestling rules are straightforward yet demanding. A match is won when one wrestler achieves control over his opponent by pinning him, lifting him off the ground, or positioning him so that his belly button faces the sky. Matches can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the endurance and skill levels of the participants. These rules have remained largely unchanged for centuries, preserving the traditional essence of Turkish oil wrestling.
The primary objective in Turkish oil wrestling is to control one's opponent by either:
- Pinning the opponent's back to the ground (called "getting their belly button to see the sky.
- Lifting the opponent off the ground entirely.
- Forcing the opponent into a submissive position where they are unable to continue.
The match continues until one wrestler achieves these objectives or until the time limit expires.
In the traditional festivals like the Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival, matches can last up to 40 minutes. If no clear winner emerges within this period, an additional period may be used. A wrestler can forfeit the match if they are unable to continue due to injury, exhaustion, or other reasons.
The Prestigious Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival
The most prestigious event in the world of Turkish oil wrestling is the Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival, held annually in Edirne. This festival, with a history of over 650 years, is considered the ultimate competition for Turkish oil wrestlers. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Kirkpinar festival draws hundreds of Turkish wrestlers and thousands of spectators from around the globe. The week-long event includes not only wrestling matches but also various cultural activities, showcasing the rich heritage of oil wrestling Turkey.
This festival serves as a vibrant celebration of Turkey's history and cultural identity, bringing together people of all ages to witness and participate in this ancient tradition. The sense of community and the display of national pride make Kirkpinar a truly unique and unforgettable event.
The Life and Training of a Turkish Oil Wrestler
Becoming a successful Turkish oil wrestler requires intense dedication and rigorous training. Wrestlers often start their training at a young age, learning techniques and building their strength and stamina. The use of olive oil not only tests their physical abilities but also their mental resilience and strategic thinking. The Turkish wrestling community holds these athletes in high esteem, viewing them as symbols of bravery, honor, and cultural pride.
The Technique: Oil Check Wrestling
An interesting aspect of Turkish oil wrestling is the technique known as oil check wrestling. This involves wrestlers inserting their hands into the kispet of their opponent to gain leverage or to find a grip, which is particularly challenging due to the slippery nature of the oiled bodies. This technique requires both skill and caution, as it is a critical part of the strategy in yağlı güreş.
Techniques and Strategies
Turkish oil wrestling includes several unique techniques, with oil check wrestling being one of the most notable. Key techniques include:
- Hand insertion: Wrestlers often try to insert their hands into their opponent’s kispet to gain leverage or a better grip, a practice known as oil check wrestling.
- Pesrev: Before the match begins, wrestlers perform a warm-up ritual called pesrev, which involves a series of movements that resemble a dance. This ritual is both a physical and mental preparation for the match.
- Tactical positioning: Wrestlers use their lower body strength and strategic positioning to outmaneuver their opponents.
Key Elements of Turkish Oil Wrestling
The Altın Kemer (Golden Belt)
The highest honor in Turkish oil wrestling is the Altın Kemer (Golden Belt). This prestigious award is given to the champion, known as the Başpehlivan, of the Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival. The tradition of awarding the Altın Kemer began in 1960 when the Edirne Municipality introduced this prize. The belt is made of 22-carat gold and weighs approximately 1,400 grams.
The Başpehlivan who wins the title three consecutive times is allowed to keep the Altın Kemer permanently. This tradition highlights the importance and prestige of the title in the world of Turkish oil wrestling. The first Altın Kemer was awarded to İbrahim Karabacak in 1960. Other notable wrestlers who have won and retained the Altın Kemer include Mustafa Bük, Aydın Demir, Hüseyin Çokal, and Ahmet Taşçı, who won it twice in two separate periods.
The Kispet
The kispet is the traditional leather trousers worn by Turkish oil wrestlers. The term kispet originates from the Arabic word "kisvet," meaning a garment worn below the waist. Made from the hides of animals like buffalo, calf, goat, or cow, the kispet is a crucial part of a wrestler's gear. The leather is thick and durable, providing protection and grip during matches.
A kispet comprises several parts: the waistband, the seat, the thighs, the legs, and the hem. It is a handcrafted item, often made by skilled artisans who pass down their craft through generations. The making of a kispet requires deep knowledge and expertise, as the leather must be treated and sewn in a way that allows for both flexibility and durability.
The Red Tipped Candle (Kırmızı Dipli Mum)
The Kırmızı Dipli Mum (Red Tipped Candle) is a traditional symbol used to invite wrestlers and notable individuals to the Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival. In times before modern communication, the Kırkpınar Ağa (chief organizer of the festival) would send these candles to villages and towns to announce the upcoming event. The phrase "to invite with a red-tipped candle" has since become a common saying in Turkish culture.
Today, the Kırmızı Dipli Mum is used symbolically. The Mayor of Edirne, along with other officials, uses it to invite dignitaries and local merchants to the festival, maintaining the tradition and historical significance of the practice.
The Zembil
The zembil is a traditional woven bag used by Turkish oil wrestlers to carry their kispet and other personal items. Made from reeds or rushes, the zembil is a product of traditional craftsmanship. In wrestling terminology, it refers to a bag made from plants like kındıra or reed, used to carry and protect the kispet.
The Cazgır
In the realm of Turkish oil wrestling, the cazgır is a respected figure who acts as the master of ceremonies and referee. The cazgır introduces the wrestlers to the audience, recites prayers, and ensures that the matches are conducted fairly. Known for their booming voices and poetic introductions, cazgırs play a vital role in energizing the crowd and maintaining the flow of the event.
The cazgır also performs the salavat, a chant that includes praise and encouragement for the wrestlers, invoking spiritual and cultural significance. This chant not only motivates the wrestlers but also engages the spectators, making the matches more thrilling and connected to the cultural roots of yağlı güreş.
History of Turkish Oil Wrestling
Turkish oil wrestling, known as yağlı güreş, is a sport with deep historical roots dating back to ancient times. Its origins are believed to be traced to Central Asia, where the early Turks practiced wrestling as a form of physical training and military preparation. With the migration of the Turks to Anatolia, this tradition was carried over and further developed. The sport took on a unique form with the introduction of olive oil, which added a new dimension to the wrestling matches, making them more challenging and strategic. Turkish oil wrestling gained prominence during the Ottoman Empire, where it became a popular and respected sport among the sultans and the military. The Ottomans institutionalized the sport, holding grand tournaments and establishing rules that have largely persisted to this day.
One of the most significant milestones in the history of Turkish oil wrestling is the establishment of the Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Festival, which dates back to at least 1346. Held annually in Edirne, this festival has become the most prestigious event in the sport, attracting wrestlers and spectators from all over the world. The festival's longevity and its recognition by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity underscore the importance of yağlı güreş in Turkish culture. Over the centuries, Turkish oil wrestling has evolved, yet it has retained its core traditions and values, symbolizing strength, endurance, and the rich cultural heritage of Turkey.
Music and Atmosphere
The atmosphere during Turkish oil wrestling matches is enhanced by traditional Turkish music. This includes:
- A group of musicians playing drums and flutes, known as davul and zurna, respectively.
- The music creates an energetic and festive environment, motivating the wrestlers and entertaining the spectators.
- The rhythmic beats and melodies are synchronized with the wrestlers’ movements, adding a cultural and emotional depth to the event.
Cultural Significance and Modern Interest
Turkish oil wrestling is deeply embedded in Turkey's cultural fabric. The sport of yağlı güreş has been passed down through generations, maintaining its traditional roots despite the passage of time. In recent years, there has been a surge of international interest in Turkish oil wrestling, with many people fascinated by its unique practices, historical significance, and the impressive display of skill and strength by the Turkish oil wrestlers.
One of the most visually striking aspects of Turkish oil wrestling is the sight of oiled up men competing in the ring. This not only emphasizes the physical prowess required but also adds to the aesthetic and cultural richness of the sport. The sheen of the olive oil under the sun, combined with the intense physical struggle, creates a captivating spectacle that draws audiences both locally and internationally.
Whether you are interested in the athleticism of the Turkish oil wrestlers or the cultural traditions of yagli gures, this ancient sport continues to captivate and inspire.
Turkish oil wrestling is a remarkable blend of sport, culture, and history. From the ancient Turkish oil wrestling rules to the grand spectacle of the Turkish oil wrestling festivals, it offers a unique window into Turkey's rich cultural heritage.
By delving into the world of oil wrestling Turkey, one gains a deeper appreciation for the dedication, skill, and cultural significance of Turkish oil wrestling. The tradition of yağlı güreş remains a vibrant and integral part of Turkey's identity, celebrating both its historical roots and its enduring appeal in the modern world.
The Altın Kemer, the intricate craftsmanship of the kispet, the symbolic Kırmızı Dipli Mum, and the authoritative presence of the cazgır all contribute to the rich tapestry of Turkish oil wrestling. This sport is not merely about physical prowess; it is a celebration of tradition, skill, and cultural pride. As we continue to celebrate and preserve the heritage of yağlı güreş, we honor the legacy of the Turkish oil wrestlers and the timeless appeal of this ancient sport.
We are always ready to answer all your questions, please reach out via Whatsapp +90 (532) 158 42 44
If you want to emigrate or buy an apartment in Turkey and enjoy life by the sea, message our specialists who will find the best options for your budget.
Also, subscribe to our YouTube channel and Instagram page to receive information from the professionals!
An additional channel to connect with us: Telegram
