Only the Greasiest Man Wins: Kırkpınar Festival in Edirne, Turkey
Travel Tips
For amazing weather in Turkey, and to catch all of the Kırkpınar oil wrestling tournament, make sure you plan your trip for June. In addition to hosting the world’s oldest continual sports competition, Edirne is also rich in religious history and culture. The Eski Mosque and Yildirim Mosque both date from before the 15th century, and are amazing examples of Ottoman architecture. The Grand Synagogue of Edirne (currently the largest synagogue in the Balkans) was recently restored, and is open to the public for tours.
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If you get too hot, covered bazaars in the center of town are the perfect place to shop for Turkish delicacies, as well as souvenirs, to take home. Be sure to taste some authentic kebab while you’re there- you haven’t lived until you’ve tried it roasted over coals, then wrapped in a doughy piece of lavash or pita bread. End the evening with some fresh baklava- phyllo pastry wrapped around a paste of nuts and spices, then doused with honey.
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