Karalahna

Karalahna is an ancient Anatolian word, specifically from the Luwian language, referring to a spindle or spinning whorl. Archaeological evidence suggests that the karalahna was a crucial tool in the production of textiles during the Bronze Age in Anatolia. Its use highlights the importance of textile production in the economic and social life of the Luwian people. While specific details about the exact construction and decoration of karalahnas vary depending on location and time period, they typically consisted of a weighted disk made of materials such as stone, clay, or bone, attached to a spindle shaft. The whorl helped to maintain momentum during spinning, allowing for the creation of stronger and more consistent threads. The term and its associated technology likely spread throughout Anatolia and beyond, influencing textile production techniques in the wider region. Studying surviving karalahnas provides valuable insights into the textile technologies, trade networks, and daily life of the ancient Luwian civilization.