In a significant achievement for cultural preservation, the Republic of Türkiye has secured a prestigious spot for its traditional Antep İşi Embroidery on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This landmark decision was announced during a major international gathering held in India's capital.
A Global Recognition from New Delhi
The official inscription took place at the 20th Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This important meeting was hosted in New Delhi from 8 to 13 December 2025. The successful nomination was the result of a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Türkiye and the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality.
UNESCO officials commended the Turkish submission, describing the application dossier as exceptionally detailed and well-prepared. This recognition highlights the effective safeguarding efforts undertaken by the Turkish authorities.
The Art and Soul of Antep İşi Embroidery
So, what exactly is this newly honoured craft? Antep İşi Embroidery is a centuries-old form of traditional needlework that originates from the Gaziantep region. The technique is distinctive and intricate.
Artisans create stunning patterns by meticulously pulling and cutting threads on a white fabric, using white thread. This method results in delicate, lace-like designs that are both beautiful and technically demanding. The knowledge required for this art is not found in manuals; it has been passed down orally and through practice from one generation of women to the next.
Beyond its visual appeal, the craft holds deep social and economic significance. It provides vital income opportunities for women artisans and strengthens community bonds by preserving a shared cultural identity.
Celebrations and a Sweet Taste of Gaziantep
Following the joyous announcement, Mayor Fatma Şahin of Gaziantep and Turkey's Ambassador to New Delhi, H E Ali Murat Ersoy, received congratulations from numerous international delegations present at the session.
Mayor Şahin expressed profound pride, stating that Antep İşi embroidery has always been central to preserving their cultural heritage and is a cherished component of a young woman's dowry. She emphasized the satisfaction of safeguarding this precious art form for the future, from the local to the global stage.
To mark this cultural milestone, Ambassador Ersoy and his spouse hosted a special Gaziantep promotion event in New Delhi. Diplomats and guests were treated to an introduction to the city's rich heritage and its famous traditional cuisine, which undoubtedly included its world-renowned baklava.
With this latest inscription, Türkiye now boasts 32 elements on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists, a testament to the country's rich and diverse living traditions. The city of Gaziantep, with its long history, remains the proud guardian of this exquisite white-on-white embroidery art, now celebrated worldwide.
