Türkiye's Antep İşi embroidery has been officially inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This announcement was made during the 20th Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in New Delhi from 8 to 13 December 2025. The nomination was a collaborative effort between Türkiye's Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality.
Antep İşi embroidery, a traditional needlework technique using white thread on white fabric, is renowned for its intricate patterns and motifs. This craft, passed down through generations, plays a significant socio-economic role in the region, particularly for women, by providing sustainable income opportunities and fostering social cohesion. UNESCO praised Türkiye's submission, noting the detailed preparation and commitment to preserving living heritage through community involvement.
Gaziantep, a city with a rich 12,000-year history, is recognised as a UNESCO Creative City. The city's mayor, Fatma Sahin, expressed pride in the recognition, stating, “Antep İşi embroidery has always held a central place in the preservation of our cultural heritage and stands as one of the most cherished elements in a young woman’s dowry.”
Following the designation, Türkiye’s Ambassador to New Delhi, Ali Murat Ersoy, hosted a Gaziantep Promotion Event, showcasing the city's cultural and culinary heritage. This event highlighted the longstanding ties between Türkiye and India, encouraging further cultural and commercial cooperation. With this new UNESCO listing, Türkiye now boasts 32 elements on the Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists, including 14 multinational collaborations.
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