Small Dutch village, named Turkeye, celebrates 400 years of history

By Selman Aksunger

SLUIS, The Netherlands (AA) - Turkeye, a small village in southwestern Netherlands continues to celebrate its centuries-old connection to Türkiye, earning it the nickname Türkiye in the Netherlands.

Located in the municipality of Sluis in Zeeland province, bordering Belgium, Turkeye boasts a rich history dating back over 400 years. The village's unique name and deep-rooted ties to Türkiye and the Ottoman Empire have made it a cultural curiosity.

The village is adorned with references to Türkiye, including a road named Turkeijeweg (Türkiye Road) and a bus stop labeled Turkije (Türkiye). At the entrance of the village, a sign with the Dutch and Turkish flags welcomes visitors.

A pivotal moment in the village's history came in 1989 when renowned Turkish rock star Baris Manco visited Turkeye. His meeting with local residents, including Monique Sturm, was later broadcast on his popular TV show From 7 to 77.

Monique Sturm, a long-time resident, has become an unofficial ambassador of Türkiye in the village. Her home, adorned with Turkish artifacts and a sign reading Turkish Embassy No: 16, serves as a testament to the village's enduring connection to Türkiye.

Sturm expressed her fondness for Turkish lamps and carpets, saying: "I like the lamps, and carpets from Türkiye."

Despite her passion for highlighting Turkish culture, Sturm mentioned that she has been unable to devote as much time to this endeavor because she has to take care of her aging mother alone.

The village of Turkeye comprises 22 houses, and its population has grown in recent years.

Iske Geertman, another local resident, said that the village has seen an increase in permanent residents, with more families choosing to live there year-round.

Geertman also said that the village's name often sparks curiosity among visitors, with some jokingly saying "we are now in Türkiye. We are on holiday."

She added: "There are different stories about how the village got its name, but regardless of which one is true, it creates a bond between the two countries."

The origins of the village's name remain a subject of debate. According to a document dated June 23, 1982 in the archive of the Municipality of Sluis, it is not known where the name of the village came from, and especially upon the interest shown by the Turkish press, it was decided to investigate the name "Turkeye" and started to collect documents from the relevant institutions.

Various theories suggest that the name may have been given in gratitude for the Ottomans’ support during the Eighty Years' War against Spain.

One popular theory is that the name was given by Prince Maurits van Oranje, the son of William of Orange, the founder of the Netherlands. During the Eighty Years' War, the area played a strategic role, and the support of Ottoman forces helped the Dutch fend off Spanish invaders. Another theory suggests that the name was given due to the region's geographical similarities to Türkiye.

The village's strategic importance diminished after the Eighty Years' War, and it changed hands between the Dutch and the French multiple times. An information board in the village square notes that the area was fortified and used for defense during various conflicts.

Despite the passage of time, Turkeye continues to hold historical significance and serves as a symbol of the enduring friendship between the Netherlands and Türkiye.

The village's unique name and rich history make it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the cultural ties between the two nations.