Sıra Gecesi is a traditional type of gathering held especially in Şanlıurfa, conducted within a specific set of rules. These gatherings are considered events where individuals come together for social, cultural, educational, and solidarity purposes, contributing to the formation and continuity of the city’s identity.
A fundamental principle in the organization of these gatherings is that participants should be similar in age, occupation, and social status.
History
Although there is no written history of Sıra Gecesi, oral history studies reveal that this tradition has existed for approximately 150 to 200 years. Deeply rooted in the social structure of Şanlıurfa, Sıra Gecesi reflects the influences of the Ahilik (guild) and Fütüvvet (chivalric) traditions.
Like in Ahilik, solidarity, mutual assistance, and the education of individuals are prioritized in Sıra Gecesi gatherings.
Notably, during the occupation of Urfa, these gatherings served as venues for social organization and resistance planning. For instance, in 1919, a branch of the Müdafaa-i Hukuk Cemiyeti (Society for the Defense of National Rights) was established during a Sıra Gecesi, and the city’s struggle for independence was organized through these meetings.
Structure and Rules of Operation
Sıra Gecesi is held on a designated night of the week in the homes of participants, following a fixed rotation order. Participation is governed by established rules. Young individuals initially take part by serving or observing and gradually attain full participant status. Guests are introduced by the host, and traditionally, mırra (a strong bitter coffee) is served.
During these gatherings, participants engage in conversation, perform local music, and play traditional games. A variety of regional dishes, especially çiğköfte, are served. As the night progresses, a cultural atmosphere is created through music and literature discussions, conversations, and humorous exchanges.
Mırra (AA)
Music in Sıra Gecesi
Sıra Gecesi plays a crucial role in the development and transmission of Şanlıurfa's musical culture. These gatherings serve as social environments where music is passed down within a master-apprentice framework. Participants sustain the traditional musical repertoire through their vocal or instrumental performances, and also contribute to the creation of new works.
Musical performances typically begin in the Rast or Divan makam (mode), continue with Uşşak, Hicaz, and others, and often conclude with the Kürdi or again the Rast makam. Songs and folk melodies are performed in accordance with the character of each makam, with interludes featuring examples of hoyrat and gazel (improvised folk poetry).
Sıra Gecesi offers a functional educational setting for beginners in music to learn makams, acquire repertoire, and gain performance experience. In this respect, it functions as a “folk conservatory” at the local level.
Many renowned artists in Şanlıurfa’s musical history—such as Mukim Tahir, Kel Hamza, Damburacı Derviş, Tenekeci Mahmut, Kazancı Bedih, İbrahim Tatlıses, Mehmet Özbek, and Mahmut Coşkunses—are reported to have developed their musical formation through Sıra Gecesi gatherings.
Çiğköfte (AA)
Educational Function
Sıra Gecesi also serves as a public school. Through these meetings, young individuals learn social etiquette, the rules of speaking and listening, and respect for elders. Cultural norms and traditional values are thus transmitted from one generation to the next. Achieving a certain age and maturity level is considered a prerequisite for full participation. These gatherings are vital tools for individuals to learn their social roles and for preserving the city’s collective memory.
Cultural Identity and Sıra Gecesi
Sıra Gecesi is a key component of Şanlıurfa’s cultural identity. It is seen as a concrete reflection of the city’s unique structure and social network. Cultural elements such as games, music, and conversation function as instruments that reinforce and sustain urban identity.
Considering the cultural significance of play within the concept of culture, Sıra Gecesi occupies an important position as both a bearer of culture and an observer of cultural changes. In this way, it directly contributes to both individual and collective identity formation.
Touristic Aspect and Perceived Authenticity
Today, Sıra Gecesi holds a significant place within cultural tourism. Participation in these gatherings is a major source of motivation for both domestic and international tourists visiting Şanlıurfa, as it provides a culturally rich and authentic experience. Research indicates that the perceived authenticity of the physical setting, music, and food enhances the participants’ experience of “flow.”
A positive correlation of 0.71 has been identified between perceived authenticity and the flow experience. The presence of traditional elements in the venue, the local character of the musical performance, and the authenticity of the regional dishes served make participants feel that they are experiencing something genuinely authentic.
Urfa Sıra Gecesi (AA)
Gastronomic Perspective of Sıra Gecesi
Sıra Gecesi is a significant recreational event that showcases Şanlıurfa’s rich culinary heritage. The dishes served during these nights play an important role in promoting the region’s gastronomy tourism. The presentation of traditional foods such as çiğköfte, lahmacun, various kebabs, bademli pilav, dolma, and local desserts contributes to the growth of culinary tourism.
Moreover, these events are crucial for preserving local culinary products and passing them on to future generations. Research emphasizes that gastronomy tourism enhances cultural sustainability and contributes to rural development.
Sıra Gecesi is a vibrant representation of Şanlıurfa’s social structure, cultural values, and urban identity. As it encompasses functions of education, entertainment, socialization, and cultural transmission, Sıra Gecesi remains a dynamic element of contemporary urban life.
