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The historic city of Manisa, renowned for its Ottoman heritage, is now a proud host of the Türkiye Culture Route Festival, joining the growing list of cities involved in one of the most ambitious cultural projects in the world.
Speaking at the festival’s opening, Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy emphasized the origins of the initiative, recalling its 2021 debut in Istanbul’s Beyoglu district. “We promised that the step taken in Beyoglu to protect and promote our country’s history, culture, and arts would reach every corner of Türkiye,” said Ersoy.
Reflecting on the journey since the first event, Ersoy noted, “It has been five years. Thanks to consistent effort, the Türkiye Culture Route Festival has evolved into the world’s most comprehensive festival—reviving our cultural legacy, supporting artists, and uniting millions in celebration.”
He highlighted that the festival is free of elitism, inclusive of all communities, and now stands as a cultural brand that bridges tradition and modernity.
This year’s festival spans seven regions and 20 cities, with Manisa making its debut as a host. The Manisa leg of the event will run for nine days, offering 520 events across 33 venues.
From concerts and theatre performances to exhibitions and workshops—both traditional and digital—the festival is designed to be a multi-dimensional cultural experience.
“You are not just visitors—you are participants in this celebration,” said Ersoy.
Music lovers can look forward to performances by Murat Boz, Bayhan, Ferhat Gocer, Ebru Yasar, Ugur Isilak, Kirac, Merve Ozbey, Fatma Turgut, and Gokhan Turkmen.
Türkiye’s State Opera and Ballet and State Theatres will also perform in Manisa, enriching the cultural landscape of the festival. The program will also commemorate 19 May Youth and Sports Day, blending celebration with national pride.
Ersoy urged families to bring their children to explore interactive exhibits like Seyyah Anadolu Medeniyetleri, Koklere Yolculuk, Lidya'nin Izleri, and Yasayan Miras Ahsap Isleri. The festival also features art workshops in sculpture, painting, ebru, and ceramics.
Beyond entertainment, the festival includes conferences, panels, and workshops, promoting cultural dialogue and intellectual exchange. A gastronomic experience awaits visitors with 11 culinary stops spotlighting Manisa’s rich culinary traditions.
A major highlight of the festival is the opening of the New Manisa Museum, described by Ersoy as “a modern complex built to reflect the spirit of Manisa.” Spanning 8,245 square meters, the museum features interactive displays and currently showcases over 1,700 artifacts.
“Museums are not just to be glanced at—they are immersive learning spaces,” Ersoy stressed.
Looking back at the festival’s origins, Ersoy recalled that in 2021, over 380 events were held in 80 venues with 2,000 artists. This year, the numbers have soared: over 6,800 events across 1,000+ venues in 20 cities, involving approximately 45,000 artists.
As part of the Manisa festival, the new Manisa Public Library also opened its doors. Minister Ersoy extended an open invitation to all, encouraging visitors to explore the events, museums, and libraries, promising a blend of entertainment, education, and experience.
Ersoy concluded his remarks by commemorating Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, fallen soldiers, and veterans, and extended his best wishes for 19 May, Commemoration of Ataturk, Youth and Sports Day.
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