Since the 14th century, Kirkpınar Oil Wrestling has been annually
held in Edirne. They dress in nothing but kisbet (traditional cowhide
trousers) and douse in olive oil, battle it out one-on-one. The last
man standing walks away with the Kirkpinar Golden Belt and the title
of Chief Pehlivan. Traditional tunes of drum and shawm contribute to
the general medieval Middle Eastern atmosphere.It draws thousands of
onlookers each year, and believes to be the longest-standing annual
sporting event in the history of the world.
fights
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14/12/2025 Last update