The Historical Significance of Falconry in Turkey from Ancient Civilisations to the Ottoman Empire

Mike Kemp
Apr 20
3 min read

Falconry, the age-old art of hunting with birds of prey, has a rich heritage in Turkey that goes back thousands of years. This practice reflects the cultural depth of the region and highlights the connection between ancient civilisations and their environment. In Turkey, falconry is entwined with significant historical moments and has become a lasting symbol of nobility, power, and tradition.

Ancient Roots of Falconry in Turkey

The history of falconry in Turkey can be traced back to the ancient Hittite civilisation, particularly at the archaeological site of Alacahöyük. This site, inhabited as early as 4000 BC, revealed relief sculptures from 1600 to 1200 BC showcasing a double-headed eagle, a key symbol of power and divinity.

These astonishing discoveries not only highlight the importance of birds of prey in Hittite culture but also connect to later civilisations like the Assyrians, who incorporated similar symbols in their artwork. For example, the Assyrian king Ashurbanipal, around 668-631 BC, often depicted himself hunting with falcons, emphasising their royal association.

The town of Karatepe, meaning "black hill" in Turkish, adds depth to our understanding of the ancient ties between people and birds of prey. Artefacts unearthed between 1947 and 1957, including reliefs from the reign of King Azatiwataš (1600 - 1400 BC), show a god holding a bird of prey next to a hare. This imagery signifies the esteemed status of these birds in both mythology and everyday life.

Falconry in the Seljuk Era

During the Seljuk era, falconry evolved into a significant cultural practice. The crowning of Tuğrul Beg in 1058 as the "King of the East and the West" strengthened the connection between the falcon and national identity. The double-headed eagle was adopted as a standard among the Seljuk Turks, a motif that inspires Turkey’s governmental institutions even today.

Falconry during this period ascribed great meaning to notions of speed and nobility. The artwork and poetry of the time frequently celebrated birds of prey as representations of power. For instance, Persian poets like Omar Khayyam mentioned falcons in their poetry, associating them with courage and valour—concepts highly valued among the elite.

The Golden Age of Falconry in the Ottoman Empire

The pinnacle of falconry in Turkey is often linked to the Ottoman Empire, particularly during its Golden Era. In this time, falconry was not merely a hobby; it was a mark of the elite, cherished by sultans and their courts. The passion for this art form became so influential that it figured into political dynamics; ransoms and plots often revolved around falconry.

Travellers in the 16th century, like John Sanderson and Thomas Dallam, provided vivid insights into this intriguing world. Their accounts reveal how falcons symbolised elite status and reflected the geopolitical narratives of the time. The Ottoman engagement with falconry also fostered cultural exchanges with Europe during the Crusades, hinting at the interconnectedness of these historical threads.

Statistics underscore the importance of this practice: an estimated 90% of Ottoman nobility owned falcons in the 16th century, showcasing the widespread appeal and significance of falconry in elite circles.

The Decline of Falconry

The decline of the Ottoman Empire in the late 19th and early 20th centuries led to a diminishing of traditional practices such as falconry. The loss of centralised power contributed to its decreasing status. With modernisation, falconry has shifted from a noble pursuit to a niche activity; as of 2012, it was estimated that around 4,000 individuals in Turkey actively practised falconry, primarily in the Black Sea region and around Istanbul.

In contemporary times, strict regulations govern falconry, permitting only certain species like the Sparrow Hawk (Atmaca) for use. Today, falconry stands as a pale reminder of its illustrious past, primarily a nostalgic echo of ancient traditions.

The Cultural Legacy of Falconry

Despite its decline, falconry leaves an enduring mark on various cultural aspects in Turkey. Ceremonial events continue to honour this ancient tradition, and literature often references the art form. In modern society, birds of prey still symbolise freedom, strength, and beauty.

Falconry serves as a reminder of the intricate relationships between humans and nature. From the Hittite civilisation through the Seljuks to the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, falconry has grown beyond mere sport, evolving into a powerful symbol of cultural identity and tradition.

A Lasting Cultural Heritage

Falconry in Turkey represents more than just a captivating sport; it showcases the nation’s rich history and cultural significance that spans millennia. From the eagle reliefs at Alacahöyük to the magnificent falcons of the Ottoman court, the bond between humans and birds of prey is woven into the fabric of Turkey's heritage.

As modern Turkey grows and transforms, the essence of falconry remains as vital as the winds beneath a soaring falcon, a reminder of the strong connections between culture and the environment, echoing through ancient history into a promising future.