Antep Embroidery: Turkey's 32nd UNESCO Heritage Recognition

Antep Embroidery Earns Türkiye Its Latest UNESCO Honor

ISTANBUL, Dec 11, 2025 – Türkiye’s traditional craft of Antep embroidery has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced.

The inscription was finalized during the 20th UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee meeting for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in New Delhi, India. With this addition, Türkiye now has 32 living heritage elements on UNESCO’s lists, making it the world’s second-highest contributor of cultural heritage elements.

About Antep Embroidery

Antep embroidery is a centuries-old craft traditionally created with white thread on white fabric, involving intricate pulling and cutting of threads to form delicate patterns. The technique not only showcases exceptional craftsmanship but also provides economic and social opportunities for women, fostering community cohesion and contributing to sustainable development.

Minister Ersoy thanked the General Directorate of Living Heritage and Cultural Activities, Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality, and all contributing stakeholders for their role in preserving and promoting this heritage.

UNESCO Recognition

UNESCO highlighted Türkiye’s comprehensive nomination file and praised the country’s efforts in safeguarding living heritage. Since ratifying the 2003 UNESCO convention, Türkiye has actively promoted peace, intercultural dialogue, and cultural diversity.

Of the 32 elements on Türkiye’s UNESCO lists, 14 are multinational, reflecting cooperation with other countries that share similar heritage. Through active collaboration among artisans, local governments, and civil society, Türkiye continues to maintain its prominent international standing in preserving intangible cultural heritage.