Have you ever seen a traditional Turkish hat and wondered what it’s called? Well, wonder no more my friend! The iconic headwear is referred to as a fez or a tarboosh, and it’s been a significant part of Turkish culture for centuries. The stylish piece has even made its way across the globe and found its place in Hollywood films and popular culture.
The fez, also known as the tarboosh, is a cylindrical-shaped hat with a flat, circular top and no brim. The Turkish headwear is typically made of red felt and is adorned with a small, black tassel. It’s believed that the fez was originally worn by Ottoman soldiers in the early 1800s. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that the hat became a part of Turkish civilian fashion and culture.
In modern-day Turkey, the fez is still worn on special occasions and in some traditional settings. However, its popularity has waned in recent years due to Western influences and the adoption of more modern styles. Nonetheless, the iconic Turkish hat remains a symbol of Turkish culture and heritage. So the next time you see a fez, you can impress your friends with your newfound knowledge of what the famous Turkish hat is called!
What is the origins of the Turkish hat?
The Turkish hat, also known as a fez or tarboosh, has a long and fascinating history dating back to the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Empire was a powerful state that spanned three continents, and during its peak in the 16th and 17th centuries, it was known for its military might and opulent lifestyle.
It is said that the fez was introduced to the Ottoman Empire in the early 19th century. The fez was originally a traditional head covering worn by the people of North Africa, and it was brought to the Ottoman Empire by the ruling Egyptian dynasty. The fez quickly became popular among the Ottoman elite and was adopted as a symbol of modernity and westernization.
The fez was worn by all levels of society, including soldiers, government officials, and ordinary citizens. The fez’s popularity grew, and it became an integral part of the Ottoman identity. It was even used as part of the Ottoman military uniform, and soldiers were given a fez to wear as part of their dress uniform.
The fez also became an important symbol of Islamic identity. The Ottoman Empire was a Muslim state, and the fez became a way for Muslims to distinguish themselves from non-Muslims. The fez was seen as a symbol of piety and devotion to Islam and became an important part of Ottoman religious and cultural practices.
Different types of traditional Turkish hats
Turkey is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and traditional Turkish hats are an important part of that heritage. These hats come in various designs and styles that reflect the region’s diverse history and cultural influences. Let’s take a closer look at some of the different types of traditional Turkish hats.
- Fez (Tarboosh): The Fez, also known as the Tarboosh, is a brimless cylindrical-shaped hat, made of red felt or wool, worn by men in Ottoman times. It was seen as a symbol of national identity during the Tanzimat period, a time of social reorganization and modernization in the Ottoman Empire. Today, the Fez is still commonly worn by Muslim clergymen in Turkey, Morocco, and other parts of the Islamic world.
- Yemeni: The Yemeni is a traditional Turkish hat that originated from the rural areas of the country. The hat is usually made of white cotton or silk and is shaped like a cone, with a tassel attached to the top. It is commonly worn by men during traditional ceremonies and festivals.
- Bozcuk: The Bozcuk is a felt hat that was traditionally worn by shepherds and other rural folk in the central Anatolian region of Turkey. It is made of felt with a wide brim, which provides protection from the sun, and a tall crown. The hat is now mostly worn as a decorative item by those attending cultural events and festivals.
The iconic Turkish Fez (Tarboosh)
The Fez, also known as the Tarboosh, is one of the most iconic Turkish hats and has a fascinating history behind it. The hat was first introduced in Turkey during the Ottoman Empire and was initially worn by the wealthy elite. However, during the Tanzimat period, the Fez became a symbol of national identity, and wearing it became mandatory for all men in the Ottoman Empire. The hat was also exported to different parts of the world, such as North Africa and the Middle East, where it was adopted as a cultural symbol.
| Material | Color | Shape | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red felt or wool | Red | Brimless, cylindrical-shaped | Symbol of national identity, worn by Muslim clergymen |
The Fez has an important place in Turkish history and is still worn by many today. It has become a symbol of the country’s cultural identity and is a reminder of its rich heritage.
The Evolution of Turkish Headwear Through History
The history of Turkish headwear is a reflection of Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. Over the centuries, Turkish headwear has undergone significant changes as political, social, and religious influences shaped its design and use. From the simplicity of the traditional fez to the grandeur of the turban, Turkish headwear has evolved into various styles and forms, each with its unique history and significance.
- The Fez: The fez, also called the tarboosh, is a cylindrical headwear with a flat top and no brim. It is believed to have originated in the 14th century during the reign of the Ottoman Empire. Initially, it was worn by the upper class, but eventually, it became the national headwear of Turkey and was worn by men of all social classes. The fez was adorned with colorful tassels and often carried a religious significance, as it was commonly worn by members of the Islamic community.
- The Turban: The turban is a headwear made from a long piece of cloth wound around the head. It was first worn in Central Asia, but its popularity spread throughout the Middle East and became a symbol of authority and prestige. During the Ottoman Empire, the turban was worn by patricians and high-ranking officials, with the size and shape of the turban indicating one’s rank and status. However, the use of the turban declined in the 19th century as Western-style hats became more fashionable.
- The Fez II: The fez underwent a redesign in the early 20th century to fit the modern era. The new version was called the “Ataturk Fez,” named after Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. The new design was smaller and lacked the tassels that were typically found on the traditional fez. However, its use was eventually banned in Turkey in the 1920s, as Ataturk sought to Westernize the country and eliminate symbols of the Ottoman Empire.
The table below summarizes the main characteristics and significance of the different types of Turkish headwear:
| Headwear | Description | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Fez | Cylindrical headwear with a flat top and no brim, often adorned with tassels. | Social status, religion, and national identity. |
| Turban | Headwear made of a long piece of cloth wound around the head. | Rank, status, and authority. |
| Ataturk Fez | Redesigned version of the traditional fez with a smaller size and no tassels. | Symbol of modernization and rejection of Ottoman Empire. |
The evolution of Turkish headwear is a testament to the country’s unique cultural heritage. While the traditional headwear such as the fez and turban have lost their popularity, they remain an important part of Turkey’s history and identity.
Why the Turkish hat is a symbol of national identity
The turban and fez were traditional head coverings for Muslim men in the Ottoman Empire until the top hat, known as the “fes-upon-fes,” slowly replaced the fez in the 19th century. However, in the early 1920s, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey, banned the wearing of the fez and introduced the “modern” hat, which is now known as the Turkish hat.
- The Turkish hat was seen as a symbol of modernization and Westernization, as it resembled the hats worn in Europe at the time.
- Atatürk promoted the Turkish hat as a way to separate the new secular state from its Ottoman past and to assert a new national identity that rejected Islamic traditions.
- The wearing of the Turkish hat was enforced through laws and regulations, and those who refused or were caught wearing the fez could face imprisonment or fines.
Today, the Turkish hat remains a symbol of national identity and modernity in Turkey. It is often worn by politicians and government officials during formal occasions, and it is also commonly seen in military uniforms and police outfits.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Modernization | The Turkish hat symbolizes Turkey’s shift towards Westernization and modernity. |
| National identity | The Turkish hat represents the new secular state and a rejection of traditional Islamic practices. |
| Enforcement | The wearing of the Turkish hat was enforced through laws and regulations under Atatürk’s leadership. |
In addition to its historical and political significance, the Turkish hat has also became a fashion item for some young people, who wear it as a way to show their sense of style and national pride.
Famous Turkish personalities who wore the traditional hat
The Turkish hat, known as the fez or tarboosh, has been a part of Turkish culture for centuries. It was a popular headwear among Turkish men, and it was also worn by famous Turkish personalities. Here are five of them:
- Mustafa Kemal Atatürk – Turkey’s first president, Atatürk was often seen wearing a fez during his military and political career. However, he made it a point to abandon the fez in 1925 as part of his efforts to modernize and westernize Turkey.
- Said Nursi – A Muslim theologian who advocated for the revival of Islam in Turkey, Said Nursi was often depicted wearing a fez in photographs and paintings. He used the fez to symbolize his vision of an Islamic revival that was rooted in Turkey’s Ottoman past.
- Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi – Although he was born in present-day Afghanistan in the 13th century, Rumi spent most of his life in Turkey. He founded the Sufi order of the Mevlevi, also known as the Whirling Dervishes. Rumi is often depicted wearing a turban or a fez.
- Osman Hamdi Bey – A prominent artist and archaeologist in the late Ottoman Empire, Osman Hamdi Bey was known for his portraits of Ottoman officials and European-style paintings. He was often depicted wearing a fez or a turban in his self-portraits.
- Zeki Müren – A legendary Turkish singer and composer, Zeki Müren was known for his flamboyant style and flamboyant headwear, including the fez. He was commonly called “Pasha” due to his association with the Ottoman Empire.
The Fez in Turkish Culture
The fez has a long and complicated history in Turkish culture. It was originally worn by Ottoman officials and was considered a symbol of their status and power. However, the fez was later banned by the Ottoman Empire as part of their efforts to modernize and westernize the country. Atatürk’s ban on the fez in 1925 was part of his broader reforms to create a secular, modern, and westernized society in Turkey.
However, the fez remains an important symbol of Turkish culture and identity. It is still worn by some Turkish traditionalists and is commonly seen in Turkish folk dance and music performances.
| Fez Colors | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red | Government officials |
| Black | All men |
| Green | Islamic scholars |
| White | Sufis or mystics |
The fez is an important symbol of Turkish culture and history, and it is still worn and celebrated by many. Whether it is worn by famous personalities or everyday people, the fez will always hold a special place in Turkish culture and identity.
The Controversy Surrounding the Turkish Hat Ban
The Turkish hat has been a symbol of Turkish culture for centuries. However, due to political and cultural tensions, the hat has become the center of controversy in recent times.
- 1. Historical significance:
- 2. Ban on Turkish hats:
- 3. Cultural tension:
The Turkish hat, also known as the fez, has been a significant symbol of Turkish culture since the Ottoman Empire. It has been worn by sultans, soldiers, and regular citizens alike. The hat is made of felt, typically red in color, and features a black tassel on top.
In the early 1900s, the founder of modern-day Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, banned the wearing of the Turkish hat as a part of his effort to modernize and secularize Turkey. The ban was lifted in 2008, but the hat remains a hotly debated topic in Turkish society.
The Turkish hat has become a symbol of cultural and political tension in Turkey. Some argue that the hat represents the country’s Ottoman past and its Islamic heritage, while others view it as a symbol of oppression and backwardness. The debate over the hat reflects deeper divisions within Turkish society over the role of Islam and tradition in modern-day Turkey.
Despite the controversies surrounding the Turkish hat, it remains an important part of Turkish culture and heritage. It is a symbol of the country’s rich history and a reminder of the challenges it has faced in the past and present.
Moreover, the lifting of the ban on Turkish hats is seen as a sign of progress towards greater religious and cultural freedom in Turkey. However, the debate over the hat shows that there is still much work to be done to overcome the deep-seated divisions in Turkish society.
The controversy surrounding the Turkish hat ban in Turkey and beyond
While the controversy surrounding the Turkish hat ban is primarily a Turkish issue, it has also garnered international attention and sparked debate about the role of tradition and culture in modern societies.
The Turkish hat has been a point of contention in other parts of the world as well. For example, in the United States, the hat has been associated with racist and anti-Semitic groups, leading some to question its cultural significance.
| Country | Controversy |
|---|---|
| Turkey | Debate over the role of Islamic and Ottoman heritage |
| United States | Association with racist and anti-Semitic groups |
| Greece | Historical tensions with Turkey over the Ottoman Empire |
Despite the controversy, many continue to view the Turkish hat as an important cultural symbol. However, the debates surrounding the hat demonstrate the complex and often fraught relationship between culture, tradition, and modernity in the contemporary world.
Modern adaptations of the Turkish hat in fashion and pop culture
Turkish hats have been making appearances in fashion and pop culture for decades now, with various modern adaptations keeping the tradition alive in unique ways.
Here are some of the most notable adaptations:
- Fez hats: The fez hat, also known as the tarboosh, is a modern adaptation of the traditional Turkish hat. It features a short cylinder shape with a rounded top and a tassel. The hat is commonly associated with Shriners, who wear them as part of their uniforms.
- Turkish baseball caps: Turkish baseball caps are a popular modern adaptation of the Turkish hat in pop culture. The caps typically feature the Turkish flag or the crescent moon and star, and they are often worn by Turkish nationals or people who support Turkish sports teams.
- Ottoman-inspired headwear: Ottoman-inspired headwear has been making its way into fashion recently, with designers like Gucci and Michael Costello incorporating the traditional Turkish patterns and styles into their collections.
In addition to these adaptations, there are also numerous films and television shows that have featured characters wearing Turkish hats in various contexts. For example, the actor William Boyd was well-known for his portrayal of the cowboy character, Hopalong Cassidy, who wore a black cowboy suit and a red fez in the 1930s and 40s. The hat was chosen for its exotic appeal, and it helped to cement Hopalong Cassidy as a distinctive on-screen character.
The table below shows some other examples of Turkish hats in pop culture:
| Movie/TV Show | Character | Hat Type |
|---|---|---|
| The Three Stooges | Crowbar | Fez |
| The Great Imposter | Frederick Merrill | Fez |
| Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom | Short Round | Traditional Turkish |
It is clear that despite its long and rich history, the Turkish hat continues to remain relevant in modern fashion and pop culture. Whether it’s as a part of a uniform or as a unique accessory, the Turkish hat is sure to make a statement wherever it is worn.
What is a Turkish Hat Called? FAQs
Q: What is the name of the traditional Turkish hat that is cone-shaped with a tassel?
A: This hat is called a fez.
Q: What is the history behind the fez?
A: The fez has been a symbol of Ottoman culture and identity since the early 19th century. It was widely worn throughout the Ottoman Empire and became popular with foreigners as well due to its unique design.
Q: Is the fez still worn in Turkey today?
A: While the fez is still worn by some people in Turkey, it is not as common as it once was. The use of the fez declined after the Turkish Republic was founded in 1923 and modern Western-style clothing became more widespread.
Q: Are fezzes only worn by men?
A: Traditionally, fezzes were worn by men. However, there are also variations of the hat that are designed for women.
Q: Are there any symbolic meanings associated with the fez?
A: The fez has been associated with different meanings throughout history, including political allegiance, social status, and religious identity.
Q: What materials are used to make a fez?
A: Traditional fezzes are made of felt or wool, but modern versions may be made of other materials like cotton or silk.
Q: Can I purchase a fez as a souvenir?
A: Yes, fezzes can often be found in Turkish bazaars and markets as souvenirs for tourists to take home.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know what a Turkish hat is called and a little bit about its history and significance, you can appreciate the unique cultural traditions that have influenced this iconic headwear. Whether you are planning a trip to Turkey or simply interested in learning about different cultural practices, thank you for reading and we hope you visit us again soon for more informative articles.