Hereke carpet gifted by Ottoman Empire to Netherlands undergoes restoration in Türkiye 

A historic Ottoman legacy is being brought back to life through modern restoration techniques. The 161.5 square meter Hereke carpet, gifted to the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands, in 1911, is currently being restored in Sultanhani, Aksaray.

This historic carpet stands not only as a cultural bridge between Türkiye and the Netherlands but also as a symbol of international cooperation.

Fahri Solak, mayor of Sultanhani and a carpet restoration expert, emphasized the meticulous approach taken during the restoration process.

“All colors of the carpet were carefully examined, and threads and dyes were selected to match the original. Wear and decay on the carpet were meticulously repaired after the weaving and wire procedures,” Solak stated, highlighting that traditional methods are used in the restoration.

International path of cultural treasure

Under the protocol signed between the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Carnegie Foundation of the Netherlands, the carpet was transported to the Aksaray Museum and then moved to Sultanhani for restoration.

After the restoration process, the carpet will be sent back to the Peace Palace. During this process, a team of eight experts is working to preserve the historical integrity of the carpet.

Solak noted that Sultanhani has become a globally recognized center for carpet restoration.

“Carpets from prestigious places such as Buckingham Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, and Cankaya Pavilion have also been restored here. The restoration of this carpet is not just an aesthetic repair but also an effort to preserve cultural heritage on an international level,” he said.

International attention and cultural heritage

Solak revealed that the restoration process holds significant importance for both Türkiye and the Netherlands, with the process being recorded in a documentary by TRT and Dutch television. This documentary will promote Türkiye’s cultural heritage and international cooperation to a broader audience.

The restoration of the carpet contributes not only as an artwork but also to strengthening the cultural and historical ties between the two countries.

Once the restoration is completed, Türkiye’s significant gift will return to its place at the Peace Palace, further solidifying the bridges between the two nations in terms of history and culture.