Traditional Sports of Turkey and France Brought Cultural Heritage Together

The Erasmus+ Mobility of Youth Workers project “A Cultural Case: Sports” (Project No: 2025-1-AT01-KA153-YOU-000299955), coordinated by FI Gesundheits- and Sportverein, continued exploring the cultural dimensions of sport during its second and third days. Implemented in partnership with Kabataş Ticaret Mesleki ve Teknik Anadolu Lisesi (Turkey), KUFF Sports and Education Club (France), Alex Frias (Spain), Kicsi Szívek Gyermekoktatási Központ Egyesület (Hungary), and FI Gesundheits- und Sportverein (Austria), the project aims to demonstrate how traditional sports contribute to shaping the cultural identities of societies.

The second day of the project was dedicated to Turkey’s traditional sports culture. Following the daily Zumba exercise session and environmental awareness activities, participants learned about some of the most significant elements of Turkish sporting heritage. Particular attention was given to Matrak, a traditional sport dating back to the Ottoman period. Participants explored its historical development, cultural significance, and the importance of preserving and passing this heritage on to future generations. Theoretical sessions were complemented by practical activities, allowing participants to experience traditional Turkish sports firsthand.

On the third day, the focus shifted to France’s sporting heritage. Participants were introduced to Jeu de Paume and Petanque, two traditional sports that hold an important place in French culture. Discussions highlighted their historical origins, their role in social life, and their contribution to preserving cultural heritage. Through practical demonstrations and hands-on activities, participants gained a deeper understanding of how sport serves as a powerful vehicle for transmitting cultural values across generations.

The activities carried out over these two days demonstrated that sport is much more than a physical activity; it is also an important cultural expression that reflects the history, traditions, and lifestyles of societies. By exploring traditional sports from different countries, participants strengthened their understanding of cultural diversity and once again experienced sport as a universal tool for fostering intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.