There’s a lot to love about the locals of Turkey, with their penchant for wrestling in olive oil chief among them. Turkish oil wrestling is a tradition going back more than 700 years and is thought to be the oldest in the world. If you’re planning on visiting the country, you have to partake.

© Yavuz Sariyildiz | Dreamstime
Local pehlivan (wrestlers) converge on the town of Edirne for a week-long festival known as Kirkpinar, during which scores of greasy, shirtless men battle each other to the ground in a true test of strength and grit. The Spartans have nothing on these oily beasts. They train for years under masters before competing in this contest of slippery strength and are highly regarded by the Turkish people.
The festival has become so popular over the years, it’s now designated a UNESCO Intangible Heritage event that draws thousands of onlookers from around the world.

© Petitfrere | Dreamstime
If you think you’ve got what it takes to tussle with these oleaginous warriors, there’s no reason you shouldn’t give it a go; the competition is open to everyone no matter creed or color. The fights used to be to the death, but we’re pretty sure they put a kibosh on that a long time ago.
Of course, this competition takes place in the middle of July, so anyone enjoying the festivities should probably bring along a mask. A group of sweaty, oil covered men in leather doesn’t exactly give off the most aromatic odor, after all.
Read This Next
Original Greek Olympic Sports
History
Jan 1, 2016#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / Europe
Feb 2, 2023Tenerife: A Volcanic Island with Impressive Rock Climbing, Highest Peak in Europe
Tenerife is known for its extraordinary natural spaces thanks to the island’s unique volcanic landscapes that molded into magical climbing areas. The destination also features year-round warm weather, which draws outdoor enthusiasts to the area. Tenerife is a rock climber’s paradise, with plenty of areas to explore.
Sponsored Content
United’s 100 Percent Green Commitment to be Carbon Neutral by 2050
United Airlines remains firmly committed toward sustainability in aviation. The latest development in its eco-conscious goals includes working with Oxy Low Carbon Ventures to commercialize the production of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) with biotech firm Cemvita Factory. Cemvita looks to develop a revolutionary new way to produce SAF by using carbon dioxide and synthetic microbes. Additionally, United Airlines Ventures (UAV) recently announced an equity investment in Fulcrum, and United has invested more in SAF production than any other airline in the world.
Save on Seabourn Cruises if You Book in February
Looking to book a cruise this year? You can now save when you book a Seabourn cruise before the end of February.
Destinations / Europe
Feb 1, 2023Up Norway Launches New Women’s Journey Highlighting Innovative Women in Norway
Sustainable tour operator Up Norway invites travelers on a new journey, highlighting the history and culture of Norwegian women: Tracing Norway’s Super Women.
Sponsored Content
Celebrity is celebrating Spring with 25% off Cruise Fares!
There’s no better time to plan the vacation you’ve been missing. Step aboard with your better half, your friends or the whole family and reconnect, reunite and rejoice with 25 percent off cruise fares for all guests. We’ll also help everyone get there with 25 percent off airfare from 20 major gateways across the country or $100 savings per person on flights from all other gateways when you book your air travel using Flights by Celebrity.*
Trends
Feb 1, 2023The World’s Most Punctual Airlines
There’s nothing quite as bad as a flying experience plagued by lateness. It can start with the plane servicing your upcoming flight being late to the gate, and then your entire trip ends up being pushed back by default.
ShareThis