zeybek

Zeybek is a traditional Turkish folk dance from the Aegean region of western Turkey. It is closely linked to the zeybek, a historic term used for male dancers and warrior-historic figures in rural communities of cities such as İzmir, Aydın, Denizli, and Muğla. The dance developed during the late Ottoman period and has endured as a symbol of regional identity and communal heritage.

Zeybek performances are usually by men, though there are women’s forms in some contexts, and may be performed solo or in groups. The choreography emphasizes a dignified, measured style with an emphasis on posture, balance, and expressive gestures that convey courage and restraint. Dancers often begin in a reserved pose and proceed through slow, sweeping steps and deliberate pauses, sometimes culminating in a dramatic flourish.

Music associated with zeybek includes traditional Aegean melodies, commonly played with instruments such as the bağlama (saz), davul (drum), and zurna, with tunes referred to as zeybek havaları. The costumes typical of the dance feature regional attire: a fitted jacket or vest, a wide belt or sash (kusak), baggy trousers, and boots; headwear commonly includes a fez or turban.

There are several regional variants of zeybek, each with its own steps and tempo. The dance is performed at weddings, folklore festivals, and cultural events, where it serves as a living expression of local history and identity. The figure of the zeybek remains a cultural symbol associated with independence, resilience, and traditional social values in the communities where the dance is preserved.