Traditional Turkish archery
Inscribed in 2019 (14.COM) on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Traditional Turkish archery encompasses principles, rituals and social practices, the craftsmanship of traditional equipment, archery disciplines and shooting techniques that have evolved over the centuries. In traditional Turkish archery, there are different types of disciplines practised on foot and horseback. Bearers and practitioners train individually or collectively to improve their skills, carry out individual shootings and take part in competitions and festive events. The craftsmanship of traditional archery equipment is a key component of the element. The equipment is made with raw materials such as trees grown under certain climatic conditions at high altitudes, organic glues, horns, tendons, silk and leather. Craftspeople must therefore have advanced knowledge of nature, including plants, animals and the climate. Archery equipment is generally decorated with calligraphy, ornaments and marquetry. Craftspeople engaged in the craftsmanship of traditional archery equipment also play an important role in safeguarding the element, with the related skills being transmitted from master to apprentice or through self-learning. In recent years, there has been a remarkable increase in the number of female archers and trainees, as well as a significant increase in the number of non-governmental organizations involved in archery in various regions of Turkey. Bearers and practitioners ensure the continued viability of the element by adopting it to fit contemporary conditions.