PodcastWomen workers lay rugs in fields in Antalya, creating colorful scenes
In Turkey's touristic destination Antalya's Döşemealtı district, carpets were spread out in the fields to dry in the sun after the harvest, removing pests and renewing their colors. The labor of predominantly woman workers creates vibrant scenes.
Duvar English
In Turkey's tourism hub Antalya's Döşemealtı district, known for its woven carpets and rugs, fields used for planting wheat in winter transform into areas where carpets are laid out in the scorching summer heat.
Wool carpets woven in various colors and patterns have been laid out by predominantly woman workers across hundreds of acres of land, left to bask in the sun for days. Carpets from all over Turkey are sent to Antalya due to its larger fields and longer sun exposure.
In winter, carpets stored in warehouses of businesses dealing in carpet and rug trade accumulate bacteria and insect larvae due to moisture. Under the scorching sun, these carpets are cleansed of pests and regain their original color.
The sunning process starts early in the morning and continues until sunset. Workers frequently turn the carpets to ensure both sides receive equal sun exposure.
About 3,000 carpets were brought to a carpet field where 20 people, including 14 women, work. The carpets were sorted by color and pattern and laid out in the fields.
Women who have made a career out of weaving carpets since their youth in the district now also contribute to the carpet fields. These women, involved in every stage of carpet-making, aim to pass on their skills to the younger generation.