A pomegranate is a pomegranate until you go to Istanbul. There, it takes a life of its own and becomes much more than just another fruit, super healthy as it might be.
Walking from Taksim square to Istiklal street, past the roasting chestnuts into one of the sweets shop, you stop at a Turkish Delight or 'lukum' counter, where you have the first pomegranate encounter: pistachio and pomegranate delights. It's only one among maybe thirty other flavors of lukums but it does stand out with its rich red and green colors. If you are into lukums, and into trying something new, you will find it tastes as good as its looks.
Moving down towards the Galata tower, you come across colorful vibrant displays of open pomegranate fruits in small shops across both sides of the street. There's your second encounter. Alternating with big bright oranges or on their own, the color and the display is designed to make you stop. And stop you will. For a glass of rich dark red pomegranate juice or a 'gentler on the stomach' point and shoot Instagram moment.
Into the shops around the Galata and more pomegranates pop up everywhere. Ceramic pomegranate objects in every color and size, monochrome or with a multitude of designs. Pomegranate earrings, pendants, charms, bracelets. You pick one, two or none and call it a day.
The second day takes you into the Grand Bazaar, the Kapalı Çarşı,, where not surprisingly there are more pomegranates at every corner and shop, though here it seems hot apple tea is more popular than fresh pomegranate juice. But what's a few fresh pomegranates less when you have thousands of embroidered ones all over the textiles of the bazaar? Because it's here where pomegranates reign. On table runners, bed covers, table cloths, throws, bags, shoes, cushions, you name it. And if it's not the full pomegranate, it's the pomegranate flower.
Bright bold red and burgundy pomegranate motifs. Embroidered by hand on special old Suzani pieces by girls and women of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and nearby countries or new machine made ones, not as special but still bright and beautiful. And all a reflection of the importance of pomegranates in the cultures of the region where pomegranates symbolize health, fertility and prosperity.
So now you know, next time you have a gift to offer to newlyweds or to anyone wishing them good luck and health, pick something with a pomegranate motif. And next time you are in Istanbul, try all the delicious sweets and savory dishes made with pomegranate.
To see our picks of pomegranate objects from Istanbul, go to www.habatiq.com. You'll find some jewelry and suzanis, though no lukums or fresh juice. You'll have to go to Istanbul for that.
