Kırşehir is a historic city in Central Anatolia, Turkey, renowned as the heartland of the Ahi Brotherhood — the medieval Islamic guild system that shaped Anatolian trade and social life. Set on the banks of the Kızılırmak River at roughly 1,000 metres above sea level, the city preserves a rich legacy of Seljuk and Ottoman architecture, including the iconic Cacabey Mosque-Observatory and the Ahi Evran Complex. Beyond the monuments, visitors discover the soothing thermal baths of Terme, vibrant local carpet traditions, and excellent day trips to the Alevi pilgrimage centre of Hacıbektaş and the ancient Bronze Age mound of Kaman-Kalehöyük.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Kırşehir kilim — hand-woven flat-weave rugs in geometric patterns; prices from 500 TRY (~$15 USD) for small pieces
Tulum peyniri (cave-aged cheese) — local speciality; buy vacuum-packed at markets for travel
Handmade copperware — ewer, tray, or coffee pot from Ahi Bakır Atölyesi; from 150 TRY (~$4.50 USD)
Nazar boncuğu (evil eye bead) — sold at souvenir shops; 20–100 TRY (~$0.60–3 USD)
Dried herbs and spices — sumac, thyme, and dried mint from the Friday market; 30–80 TRY (~$0.90–2.40 USD)
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Salı Pazarı (Tuesday Market)
Produce and village goods
Cuma Pazarı (Friday Market)
Larger weekly market
Belediye Çarşısı
Daily covered market