Shopping in Eastern Anatolia

Eastern Anatolia offers unique shopping opportunities with its authentic culture and natural richness. Here are some of the most notable gifts, foods, and handicrafts you can purchase from the region:

1. Food and Local Delicacies

• Honey and Highland Products: High-quality flower honey and beekeeping products from Erzurum and Kars plateaus.
• Kars Cheese and Gruyère: Famous cheeses from Kars, perfect for breakfast.
• Dried Fruits and Nuts: Malatya’s apricots, Erzincan’s walnut pestil, and dried mulberries.
• Spices: Herb-infused cheeses and wild herbs from Van and surrounding areas.
• Thyme and Herbal Teas: Unique herbal teas and thyme spices native to the region.

2. Handicrafts and Souvenirs

• Carpets and Kilims: Handwoven carpets and kilims from Erzurum, Bitlis, and Van.
• Silverwork: Erzincan's renowned filigree silver jewelry and accessories.
• Van Savat Silver: Unique silver jewelry crafted with traditional Van techniques.
• Amber Rosaries: Prayer beads made from natural stones in Erzurum.
• Wood Carving: Hand-carved decorative items and wooden souvenirs from Bitlis.

3. Textiles and Weaving

• Felt Products: Traditional felt bags, vests, and decorative items.
• Natural Wool and Woven Goods: Scarves, shawls, and blankets made from natural wool in Van and Hakkari.
• Local Attire: Regional garments and fabrics adorned with traditional patterns.

4. Ceramics and Pottery

• Pottery and Ceramics: Handmade ceramic plates and pottery crafted by artisans in Erzurum and Malatya.
• Bitlis Tile Products: Intricately crafted tiles reflecting Ottoman heritage.

5. Souvenirs and Cultural Items

• Miniature Souvenirs: Small replicas of historical landmarks in Eastern Anatolia.
• Muş Tulip-Themed Products: Decorative items inspired by the symbolic tulip of Muş.

6. Tourist and Natural Stones

• Oltu Stone Products: Jewelry, necklaces, bracelets, and prayer beads made from Erzurum's famous Oltu stone.
• Amethyst and Natural Stones: Decorative stones sourced from the region's rich mineral deposits.

Places to Shop

• Van Bazaar: Ideal for traditional goods and varieties of herb-infused cheese.
• Erzurum Coppersmiths’ Bazaar: Perfect for Oltu stone and copperwork.
• Kars Cheese Markets: A must-visit for cheese shopping.
• Malatya Apricot Market: The go-to place for fresh and dried apricots.

When visiting Eastern Anatolia, these unique products make excellent keepsakes for yourself or gifts for your loved ones, bringing the region’s authentic charm to your home. 😊