Antalya Carpet Fields

The carpet fields located in the Döşemealtı district of Antalya are a unique application site where hand-woven carpets and kilims collected from different regions of Türkiye are sun-dried and sterilized to enhance their colors. This method aims to naturally pastelize traditional carpets dyed with root dyes and eliminate harmful microorganisms.

Antalya Carpet Fields (AA)

Application Process

Seasonal Transformation: During the summer months, agricultural land left vacant after wheat harvest is converted into carpet fields. Carpets are typically exposed to sunlight from June to September.

Preparation: Hand-woven carpets are washed and repaired before being spread out on the fields. They are turned over periodically to ensure even sun exposure.

Sterilization and Pastelization: In Antalya’s summer temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, colors rapidly pastelize. This process also helps eliminate bacteria and larvae caused by moisture.

Transformation and Shipment: After sun-drying, carpets are washed again in sterile pools, packaged, and shipped to many countries, primarily the United States.

Antalya Carpet Fields (AA)

Spatial Characteristics

Land Use: Thousands of carpets are laid out each season across hundreds of hectares of land, with numbers varying according to the season.

Contribution of Female Labor: Female labor is central at every stage of the carpet production process. Traditional knowledge transfer from weaving to sun-drying continues between generations.

Antalya Carpet Fields (AA)

Cultural and Visual Impact

Touristic Interest: The vibrant color palette created by the carpet fields attracts both domestic and international tourists. They have become a popular filming location for photographers, filmmakers, and music video producers.

Motif Diversity: The majority of carpets brought to Döşemealtı feature Yörük motifs. These patterns, harmonized with pastel tones, are presented as a cultural value.

Antalya Carpet Fields (AA)

Economic Dimension

Commercial Use: Carpets are exported abroad, with some examples fetching prices up to 300,000 US dollars. This process contributes to the local economy by generating foreign exchange.

Decline of Traditional Production: In recent years, the decline in carpet and kilim weaving activities in villages has made it increasingly difficult to source products for display on the fields.

Antalya Carpet Fields (AA)