Women lead revival of 3,500 year-old Hittite linen

A groundbreaking social responsibility initiative by the Corum Businesswomen’s Association (ISKAD) is reviving the ancient Hittite linen, unearthed from the Sapinuva Ancient City archaeological site, after 3,500 years.

The newly designed material, branded as “Hittite Linen,” was unveiled at a grand press event held at the historic Velipasha Han. The unveiling showcased the intricate weaving techniques and the unique characteristics of the revived fabric.

ISKAD’s initiative marks a significant milestone in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Hittite civilization while also contributing to the contemporary textile industry. By reintroducing Hittite Linen to modern production, the project aims to offer a sustainable and ethically sourced fabric option for designers and consumers alike.

Fashion show featuring Hittite linen

During the launch event, members of the theatre group “Tiyatro Dorduncu Duvar” showcased fashion designs made from the “Hittite Linen,” featuring traditional Hittite motifs.

Semrin Kaleli, president of ISKAD, explained how the concept for the project originated. After a visit to the ancient city of Sapinuva, Kaleli learned about the ancient textiles from professor Aygul Suel, the excavation lead, and saw an opportunity to transform this historical artifact into a modern-day brand.

“We studied the weaving techniques and materials used in the ancient linen and, in collaboration with a textile design studio in Denizli, recreated the fabric, which we’ve branded as ‘Hittite Linen’,’” Kaleli stated.

She also confirmed that the trademark registration for the fabric had been completed, with ongoing efforts to secure geographical indication status.

Empowering women through weaving workshops

Kaleli emphasized that ISKAD plans to establish a weaving workshop in Corum to produce the new linen, which will create employment opportunities for women while also positioning Corum as an exporter of this unique fabric.

Deputy Mayor of Corum, Ismail Yagbat, highlighted the city’s commitment to supporting this initiative, adding that a weaving workshop will be set up in the Velipasa Han, where women will receive training in linen weaving.

Historical journey of rediscovery

Professor Aygul Suel expressed her joy at seeing the ancient linen she had uncovered 28 years ago now serve as the inspiration for a business venture. She described the discovery of the 3,500-year-old fabric as miraculous, noting that the cloth was originally used to cover storage jars and was carefully extracted from its resting place for analysis at the Middle East Technical University (METU) and Ankara University, where it was confirmed to be linen.

Suel added that Hittite tablets also point to the widespread use of linen in the ancient civilization.