Spanish, South American Muslim tourists gather for iftar at Turkish family’s home

By Mehmet Kara and Zehra Nur Celik

ISTANBUL (AA) - Muslim tourists from Spain, Peru, Argentina, and Colombia visiting Türkiye had the opportunity to experience Ramadan’s spiritual atmosphere and the sense of brotherhood that transcends borders by sharing iftar, the fast-breaking meal, at a Turkish family’s home.

Organized by the Intercultural Communication Center Foundation (KIM Vakfi), the guests gathered at the Istanbul home of Hakan Sarihan, a member of the foundation.

Speaking to Anadolu, Sarihan said the foundation conducts extensive work and provides education for tourists from around the world who have embraced Islam.

This year, Muslim tourists were welcomed into Turkish homes for iftar, Sarihan said.

"We had guests from four or five different countries. As a family, we were overjoyed. It was a wonderful iftar," he added.

Patricia Mieres, who traveled from Argentina to Istanbul to experience the spirit of Ramadan, told Anadolu that visiting Türkiye during Ramadan was one of her “biggest dreams.”

“Seeing different generations within this family made me so happy because I lost my parents. Today, I was deeply moved," Mieres said.

Maria Cristina Martinez from Spain recounted her journey to Islam, saying she became interested in the faith at age 18, bought a Muslim holy book of the Quran, and eventually converted.

Describing the iftar invitation as an “unforgettable moment,” Martinez said: "Breaking our fast with a Muslim family is an indescribable joy."

"Coming to Türkiye and seeing it with my own eyes makes me incredibly excited and happy," she added.