Aydın fig orchard invites passersby to eat via local dialect note

In the Efeler district of Aydın, a fig orchard in the rural Mesutlu neighborhood has gained social media attention due to a handwritten note inviting passersby to eat the fruit. Written in the local Aegean dialect, the note reads, ‘İncir yimek selbes’ (Eating figs is permitted/free).

This gesture reflects a long-standing tradition of charity and sharing in rural Aegean regions that dates back to the Ottoman era. In these areas, it is common for landowners to leave fruit from roadside trees available for travelers, often accompanied by signs stating that the food is ‘halal’ or free to take. This practice serves to strengthen community solidarity and hospitality.