Social Reflections of the Kaklık Neighborhood Cemetery, the History of Kaklık, and the Haydar Baba Cemetery

Abstract

This study examines the historical, cultural, and social dimensions of the Kaklık Cemetery and Haydar Baba Tomb located around the Kaklık Cave in Kaklık Neighborhood, Honaz district of Denizli province. The research focuses on the historical development of Kaklık, settlement memory, symbols on gravestones, weaving motifs, and folk beliefs shaped around the tomb. Based on qualitative research methodology, this study relies on findings obtained from field observations, photography, document analysis, and oral history interviews. It was observed that the Turkish tamgas and motifs observed in the cemetery reflect the cultural continuity associated with the Oghuz-Turkmen settlement of the region. Additionally, it was determined that the Haydar Baba tomb was a strong spiritual and social solidarity center in the past through votive offerings, rain prayers, and collective wish rituals, but this function has diminished today. The study not only contributes to the preservation of local memory but also has value as an exemplary field research that develops students' historical consciousness.