A Taste of Heritage: The Şırnak Dergül Tahini Story”
In the fertile lands of Şırnak, along the cool waters of the Dergül Valley,a waterwheel has been turning since 1869 — not merely grinding grains, but preserving a tradition.
This historic watermill is more than a place of production; it is a living part of the region’s cultural memory. Powered by nature and perfected by human craftsmanship, the mill stands as a timeless witness to Anatolia’s respect for nature, labor, and heritage.
A Monument of Culture and Craftsmanship
Despite the wear of time, the mill has preserved its authentic architectural character. On January 19, 2010, it was officially registered and placed under protection by the Diyarbakır Regional Board for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage (Decision No. 2834).
This recognition confirmed that the mill is not just a building, but a monumental symbol of the region’s historical, cultural, and technical legacy.
Şırnak Dergül Tahini: The Flavor Marked by Its Land
From this watermill comes a product deeply rooted in place and tradition — the Şırnak Dergül Tahini.
Locally grown sesame seeds are carefully selected, roasted over wood fire, and stone-ground by the power of flowing water. The result is a tahini that embodies patience, craftsmanship, and harmony with nature.
This traditional method has been officially protected under Article 41 of the Turkish Industrial Property Law No. 6769, certified by the Şırnak Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry on August 29, 2023, and registered by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office with Geographical Indication No. 1460.
Today, “Şırnak Dergül Tahini” is not merely a name — it is a symbol of geography, culture, and a way of life.
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Crafted by the Hands of Women
At the heart of this living tradition lies the dedication of local women artisans.
Every step of the tahini-making process carries their care and expertise — from roasting sesame over wood fires to grinding it in centuries-old stone mills. The rhythmic sound of the mill and the aroma of roasted sesame tell a story where past and present meet in harmony.
A Living Cultural Heritage
Today, the historic watermill continues to operate as a living heritage site, bridging generations.
Visitors who step inside don’t just witness a production process; they experience a living chapter of Anatolia’s thousand-year-old food culture — one powered by nature, preserved by craft, and shared with heart.
Dergül Natural Foods – In the Footsteps of Selahattin Demir
Under the leadership of Selahattin Demir, Dergül Natural Foods is devoted to keeping this heritage alive and sharing it with the world.
Each jar of tahini carries a story — one made of respect for the past, dedication in the present, and the pure strength of nature.
Şırnak Dergül Tahini — more than a taste.
It is the voice of the land, the rhythm of water, and the trace of human devotion.
