Have you heard of the Turkish village in Italy?

The village of Moena, located on the border of Italy and Austria, is situated on the remote edges of the Alps. The Moena village, located in the Tarento region ofItaly, has been known for more than 323 years for its Turkish culture.

THE JOURNEY OF THE JANISSARY SOLDIER TO ITALY

The story of the Turkish people in the village of Moena in Italy embracing them so much dates back 323 years. After the Siege of Vienna, one of the Ottoman soldiers sought refuge in this small town in Italy.

The dying Janissary is treated by the villagers. After the Janissary recovers, he marries a girl from the village, and the townspeople give him the name ‘El Turco.’

HE PROTECTS THE PEOPLE AND TEACHES THEM TO FIGHT

During that period, the soldier leads a rebellion in the village against the unjust taxes demanded by the duchy and protects them. As a result, the village loves ‘El Turco’ even more, and Turkish traditions are preserved even after his death.

The real name of the Janissary referred to as El Turco is Hasan. The events are narrated in Orhan Yeniaras’ novel titled ‘El Turco.’ Over time, the Janissary even teaches the people how to fight.

He provides information about the technique of making weapons like bows and arrows. The people of Moena are grateful to El Turco because he helped them embrace the concepts of freedom and heroism.

TURKISH DAY FESTIVAL IS HELD

From the death of El Turco to the present day, the people refer to the Moena village as La Turchia or Rione Turchia, and festivals are also organized. The Turkish Day festival lasts for two days in August.

The bust of the Janissary still stands in Moena village.

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