Sakarya Cultural Association Preserves 700‑Year Manav Türkmen Heritage

The Sakarya Local Culture Association (Sakarya Yerel Kültür Derneği) is undertaking projects to safeguard the Manav Türkmen culture, which traces back roughly 700 years to the settlement of Oghuz Kayı tribes in the Sakarya plain. Founder Ahmet Pekşen highlights historical evidence such as Orhan Gazi’s 1301 deed confirming the community’s early presence.

The association has established a traditional Türkmen tent and a Taraklı‑style Manav Culture House that showcase centuries‑old customs, tools and architecture. These sites have welcomed between 250 and 300 school children from dozens of schools, typically in groups of 15‑25, allowing students to experience the heritage firsthand.

Pekşen stresses the urgency of transmission, saying, “We are the last generation; if we do not pass this on, our past will be lost.” The initiative aims to keep the cultural legacy alive for future generations.