The Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling is a traditional Turkish oil wrestling tournament. It is held annually in Edirne from the end of June to the beginning of July. Wrestlers compete in the arena for three days. On the final day, the first, second, and third place winners in each category are determined. The most important title is that of the “başpehlivan” (chief wrestler). During the wrestling matches, the Kırkpınar Festival takes place, featuring various events and activities.
The Legend of Kırkpınar
There are many legends associated with “Kırkpınar oil wrestling”. The most popular one goes as follows: During the conquest of Rumelia, Orhan Gazi’s brother Süleyman Pasha, along with 40 soldiers, captured Domuzhisarı Castle and several other fortresses. While returning, they stopped at Samona, which is now within the borders of Greece, and engaged in wrestling matches. Two wrestlers could not determine a winner.
Later, on Hıdırellez Day (May 6th), the two wrestlers engaged in a match again. The wrestling started early in the morning and continued until midnight, ending with the death of both wrestlers. Their friends buried them under a fig tree located there.
Years later, when their friends returned to the same spot, they saw clean and abundant springs flowing where their two wrestler friends were buried. This place was then named “Kırkpınar” (Forty Springs), and thus the tradition of Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling began.
Location of the Event
Following the Balkan Wars and World War I, the Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling was moved from the Kırkpınar Meadow near Samona village, now within the borders of Greece, to the Viran Tekke neighborhood on the Edirne-Mustafa Paşa road.
Since the declaration of the Republic, the wrestling matches have been held in the Sarayiçi area of Edirne.
NOTE: “Rumelia” (Rumeli) is the Turkish name given by the Ottoman Empire to the territories they conquered from the Eastern Roman Empire. After the Ottoman Turks set foot in Europe, they named the places they conquered in this region as Rumeli.
FAQ – Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling Festival
What is Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling?
Kırkpınar is a traditional Turkish oil wrestling festival held annually in Edirne and considered one of the oldest sporting events in the world.
When is the Kırkpınar Festival held?
It takes place every year from late June to early July.
Where does Kırkpınar take place?
Today it is held in the Sarayiçi area of Edirne.
What does “başpehlivan” mean?
It is the title given to the champion wrestler of the festival.
Why is oil used in wrestling?
Wrestlers cover themselves in olive oil, making the sport more challenging and a traditional part of the ritual.
Türkçe