Organized under the leadership of Meram Municipality, the event saw approximately 10 tons of tuluk cheese belonging to around 400 families removed from caves, bringing Kızılören’s rich cultural heritage, abundance and spirit of solidarity to life once again. The festival attracted considerable interest from residents of central Konya and surrounding neighborhoods, creating colorful scenes.

The centuries-old cheese removal tradition in Kızılören, Meram, was celebrated once again this year with strong participation and great enthusiasm. Organized by Meram Municipality in cooperation with the Kızılören Education, Culture, Solidarity and Charity Foundation, the event marked the removal of tuluk cheeses that had been left to mature in caves for months. The program drew large crowds from Kızılören, neighboring neighborhoods and central Konya.

A CENTURIES-OLD TRADITION AND A CELEBRATION OF ABUNDANCE

An important part of Kızılören’s cultural heritage, the cheese removal tradition brings together hard work, patience and the opportunities offered by nature. Tuluk cheeses placed in caves during the summer months are removed after months of natural aging as families prepare for winter. The tradition not only provides families with cheese for the winter but also generates additional income for producers. Through the annual festival, it continues to reach wider audiences. The large turnout gave visitors an opportunity to learn more about Kızılören’s long-standing production culture.

MAYOR KAVUŞ: “WE ARE CARRYING MERAM’S WAY OF LIFE INTO THE FUTURE”

Meram Mayor Mustafa Kavuş said they were delighted to be part of a tradition that had been passed down for centuries.

“This year, approximately 10 tons of cheese belonging to around 400 families are being removed from the caves. People mature the cheese they will consume throughout the winter here, while some also sell a portion of it to contribute to their household budgets. As Meram Municipality, our priority is to preserve Meram’s way of life and pass it on to future generations. I would like to thank the people of Kızılören who have kept this tradition alive to this day,” he said.