Turkish Wrestling is a national sport of Turkey. Many European and world champions can be found here. It is a very traditional sport.
Wrestling in Turkey is practiced since the Ottoman Empire. Its history is 400 years old. Among other types
Oil Wrestling is the most interesting one.
The name Kirkpinar was given to honor a 17th century wrestling legend. The
Turkish Wrestling match used to take place on a grassy field near the capital of the Ottoman Empire. In modern days the stadium is located on the former site of the palace of the Sultan. The champions are crowded by the Turkey president.
The field remained crowded for three days. Simultaneous
Turkish Wrestling matches took place in eleven divisions. Forty-year-old masters as well as school kids took part. The fights continued for a long time. The Turks become fiercely aggressive at times to win. But interestingly enough it can be noticed that when somebody is in problem it is his opponent who comes forward to help. This shows their essential brotherhood.
Oil Wrestling has been famous. It is known as such because the wrestlers douse themselves with olive oil. The fighters are known as
pehlivan, meaning hero. They were kisbet made of water buffalo hide and also of calf leather.
Oil Wrestling matches had no time limit. It can go on for one or two day until the superiority of one person is established. But now a day's duration is set.
Turkish Wrestling has been an important part in the life of the Turks.
