During the excavations at Çatalhöyük, we saw that Anatolian civilization had developed considerably in terms of weaving and that the oldest fabrics were found here. Peshtemal is the oldest textile product that remains to be used today.
Historical origins of Turkish Peshtemal towel
The history of the weaving technique of peshtemals goes as far back as the history of Anatolian weaving. In 6000 B.C. the first loops were woven on Anatolian soil.
In the ancient Roman period, the cities located in the Lycos Valley of Anatolia are among the industrialised cities of the era that perfected the art of weaving and produced woven products. According to some sources, these cities exported products to Italy, which can be considered the leading country of today's fashion world.
It is believed that the history of peshtemal began in the city of Hierapolis. We believe that the Roman hammam culture was established in Hierapolis because of the source of natural rich hot water. The world’s best quality cotton is grown in Anatolia; together with the best quality cotton and skilful ateliers, the first peshtemal samples emerged. After the Romans, the people of the region continued to weave during the Ottoman Empire. Over time, peshtemal became a product worn and sought after by people in the Ottoman palaces.
Hierapolis was one of the cities located in the Lycos Valley and is today known as Denizli in Turkey.
Ongoing for centuries
Today, there are still many weavers in Denizli who continue to weave peshtemals. The suppliers we work with are part of the Peshtemall family whose products are made using local weavers who have been weaving for decades. The products we sell are made from 100% OEKO-TEX certified Turkish cotton and azo free dyes.
We have a broad range of beautiful Peshtemal towels in a range of colours, which can be used both indoors and outdoors.
We are massively proud to present peshtemal, this centuries old beautiful tradition to you. Check out our collection of peshtemal here.
Thank you for visiting our website. Before we end this blog we would like to leave you with a quote:
“It is always the simple that produces the marvellous”
Amelia Barr