TEXTILE-CLOTH AND CULTURE, 2025 (AHCI, Scopus)
Traditional mohair production and sof weaving, once central to Ankara's cultural and economic heritage, have largely vanished from contemporary Turkish practice due to industrialization and craft marginalization. This study addresses this cultural erosion by reconstructing the cultural biography of mohair and assessing its potential contribution to sustainable rural development in T & uuml;rkiye. The research aims to analyze the historical, cultural, and material dimensions of these traditions and explore their potential for revitalization as tools for rural regeneration, local identity, and heritage tourism. Adopting a thematic historical review approach drawing on archival, ethnographic, and policy sources, the study traces mohair's trajectory from Ottoman significance to its present role in rural heritage economies. Key findings indicate that mohair-related crafts remain valuable assets for rural communities when integrated into contemporary development strategies. Revival examples, including women-led cooperatives and incorporation into education and heritage branding, show renewed relevance. However, institutional support for yarn standardization, artisan training, and marketing is essential. In conclusion, mohair's cultural biography provides a lens on the intersection of tradition, material culture, and sustainable development. Reviving these handicrafts is crucial for preserving T & uuml;rkiye's intangible cultural heritage and enabling inclusive rural transformation.