Several types of floor coverings handwoven at Bandirma, a town in Turkey on the southern shore of the Sea of Marmora, usually as imitations of Ghiordes prayer rug designs. The enterprise was begun in the early 20th century, perhaps with weavers from Ghiordes, although it is usually described as an Armenian establishment. The rugs are characterized by overly elaborate areas, such as the sides of the prayer-niche design, and a differing color range from the originals they imitate, including pastel shades and opaline effects. (en)