Interesting Facts About Turkey: From Ancient Civilizations to Modern Marvels

Turkey is a land where continents collide and offer an explosion of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history. We visited Turkey years ago for a vacation and fell immediately in love. From the tasty food and rich culture to friendly and welcoming people, it is a country that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Before you embark on your Turkish adventure, let’s delve into some crucial insights that ensure you have an unforgettable experience.

A Little Bit of History About Turkey 

• • Ancient Civilizations (c. 7500 BC – 330 AD). Today’s land of Turkey is home to great civilizations such as the Hittites, Phrygians, Greeks, and Romans. The famous city of Troy was in present-day Turkey.
  • Byzantine Empire (330 – 1453) – Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) became the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. The empire flourished for over a thousand years.
  • Ottoman Empire (1299 – 1922) – One of the most powerful empires in history, ruling vast territories across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The empire peaked under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
  • Fall of the Ottoman Empire (1918 – 1922) – After World War I, the empire collapsed, and foreign powers occupied parts of Turkey.
  • Turkish War of Independence (1919 – 1922) – Led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Turkey fought against occupying forces and established its sovereignty.
  • Republic of Turkey (1923 – Present) – On October 29, 1923, Atatürk declared Turkey a republic, introducing major reforms in education, language, law, and women’s rights.
  • Modern Era – Turkey became a member of NATO in 1952, has undergone political and economic transformations, and remains a key player in regional and global affairs.

The original name of Istanbul is Byzantium. This word is of Greek origin – from the name “visa”. According to legend, a man with this name founded the city. In 324, Byzantium was renamed “Constantinople” in 1930 – Istanbul.

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Santa Claus was born in Turkey

Yes, you read it right. THE Santa Claus, known as St. Nicholas, was born in Patara, a city in present-day Turkey, during the 3rd century AD. He became the Bishop of Myra (modern-day Demre) and was known for his kindness, generosity, and secret gift-giving, which later inspired the legend of Santa Claus. One of the most famous stories about him tells of how he secretly helped a low-income family by leaving gold in their stockings, a tradition that evolved into modern Christmas customs. Today, visitors can explore the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre, where his legacy continues to attract people worldwide.

Tulips originated in Turkey

This is a fact that surprised aso us as tulips are often associated with the Netherlands, they actually originated in Turkey and Central Asia. The Ottomans cultivated tulips as early as the 16th century, and they became a symbol of wealth and prestige. The “Tulip Era” (Lale Devri) in the early 18th century was a period of peace and artistic flourishing in the Ottoman Empire, during which tulips played a significant role in culture, art, and even diplomacy. Later, tulip bulbs were introduced to Europe, where they sparked “Tulip Mania” in the Netherlands. Today, tulips remain an important symbol in Turkish culture, celebrated every spring during the Istanbul Tulip Festival.

It’s home to the world’s oldest temple

Around the world we visited many old temples, that we though were the oldest in the world, but actually Turkey holds the tittle. It is home to Göbekli Tepe, the world’s oldest known temple, dating back to around 9600 BC—thousands of years before Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. Located in southeastern Turkey, this archaeological site features massive stone pillars arranged in circles, intricately carved with animals and symbols. It challenges previous understandings of early human civilization, suggesting that complex societies and religious structures existed before agriculture. Göbekli Tepe is often considered the birthplace of organized worship, making it one of the most significant discoveries in human history.

The Unconquered Cities of Asia Minor: Termessos and Sillyon

Termessos, an ancient city nestled high in the Taurus Mountains near Antalya, is one of only two cities in Asia Minor—along with Sillyon—that Alexander the Great failed to conquer. Its strategic hilltop location and formidable defenses made it nearly impenetrable, forcing the Macedonian king to abandon his siege in 334 BC. The city was first referenced in Homer’s Iliad, which recounts the events of the Trojan War, but its first historical mention comes from Alexander’s unsuccessful attempt to capture it. Today, Termessos remains a well-preserved archaeological site, offering visitors a glimpse into its legendary past.

The Oldest Underground Train in Continental Europe

Turkey is home to the Tünel funicular, the oldest operating underground railway in continental Europe and the second-oldest in the world after the London Underground. Opened in 1875, this historic funicular connects the bustling districts of Karaköy and Beyoğlu in Istanbul, providing a crucial link between the lower and upper parts of the city. Built to ease the steep climb up the Galata Hill, the Tünel was a revolutionary transportation project of its time, modernizing urban mobility in the Ottoman Empire. Despite its age, the system remains fully functional today, serving both locals and tourists as a charming yet efficient piece of living history.

Istanbul: The Only City in the World Spanning Two Continents

Istanbul, Turkey’s largest and most vibrant city, holds a remarkable distinction as the only city in the world that spans two continents—Europe and Asia. Divided by the Bosphorus Strait, the city connects both continents’ cultures, histories, and traditions, making it a unique metropolis. On one side lies the European part of Istanbul, home to historic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, while the Asian side offers a more tranquil, residential vibe with charming neighborhoods and lush green spaces. This geographical divide defines Istanbul’s landscape and enhances its cultural richness, making it a fascinating blend of East and West, old and new. The city’s unique positioning has made it a crossroads for trade, culture, and civilization for centuries, further solidifying its importance as a bridge between continents.

About 95% of Turkey’s landmass lies in Asia, with the remaining 5% in Europe, making it a unique bridge between two continents. The border between the two continents runs through the heart of Istanbul. The Bosphorus is a symbolic and literal link, connecting the East and West in a way few places can.

The ancient city of Troy was in Turkey

The ancient city of Troy, immortalized in Homer’s Iliad and the epic tale of the Trojan War, is situated in present-day Türkiye, near the Dardanelles. This historic site holds deep cultural and mythological significance, offering visitors a chance to explore the ruins of a civilization that has inspired stories of love, betrayal, and heroism for centuries. Waddling through the ancient walls, one can imagine the legendary events of the Trojan War unfolding, from the cunning of the Trojan Horse to the fierce battles between gods and men.

Turkish Tea Culture: A Tradition as Strong as the Brew

Tea is a cornerstone of Turkish culture, beloved by nearly every person in the country. About 96% of the population drinks at least one cup of tea daily, making it one of the most consumed beverages in Turkey—on par with the British, who are equally famous for their tea-drinking habits. However, unlike the traditional British teacup, Turkish tea is served in small, tulip-shaped glass cups. This distinctive shape allows for the full appreciation of the rich amber color of the brew.

Turkish tea is strong and usually served without milk, offering a pure, bold flavor. The unique method of brewing involves a two-tiered teapot, where water in the lower pot is boiled, and strong tea leaves are steeped in the upper pot. The resulting concentrate is mixed with hot water to create the perfect strength. Whether at a bustling café, in a warm home, or shared with friends, tea is more than just a drink—it symbolizes hospitality and a moment to pause and connect.

The Seven Hills of Istanbul: A Reflection of its New Rome Legacy

Much like Rome, Istanbul is built on seven hills. The decision to build Istanbul (then Constantinople) on these hills was not mere coincidence but a strategic homage to the grandeur of the Roman Empire. The city was established as “New Rome” during the reign of Emperor Constantine in 330 AD, symbolizing the continuation of Roman power and influence in the East.

Each of the seven hills in Istanbul holds its historical significance, many crowned by stunning architectural landmarks. From the Hagia Sophia to the Blue Mosque, these hills bear witness to centuries of imperial ambition, religious transformation, and architectural brilliance. Palaces like Topkapi, overlooking the Golden Horn, also stand as testimony to the Ottoman Empire’s splendor.

The “Nut Republic” and Its Hazelnut Dominance

Turkey is renowned as the world’s largest producer of hazelnuts, dominating the global market with a staggering 75% of the world’s supply. This “nut republic” is important to the ideal growing conditions along the country’s Black Sea coast. The region’s cool, humid climate and fertile soil provide the perfect environment for hazelnut trees, which thrive there.

The hazelnut industry has become a cornerstone of Turkey’s agricultural exports, and the country’s fields are home to millions of hazelnut trees. These vast walnut fields stretch across the entire Black Sea coast, where the climate plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal growth, making the region a hub for hazelnuts and walnuts. Turkey’s dominance in the hazelnut market is so significant that it influences global supply chains, affecting everything from chocolate production to snack foods.

Other Interesting Facts

• • • The word “turquoise” translates as “Turkish stone“. This beautiful mineral came to Europe from the East via Turkey and is one of the oldest gemstones in history. Turkish soldiers first used it as an amulet.
    • The national sport of Turkey is oil wrestling. The wrestlers are doused in oil before entering the ring.
    • There are over 30 ethnic languages in Turkey. Although Turkish is the official language, more than 30 other languages are spoken in the country, including Arabic, Kurmanji, and Zazaki.
    • The Evil Eye is the best-selling Turkish souvenir. Locals call it “Nazar boncuğu“. The decoration is a stone made of molten glass, iron, and copper. According to a 3000-year-old tradition, it protects the wearer from evil forces. The blue color of the stone is believed to protect against bad energy.
    • The Turks brought coffee to Europe. Although the plant is not widespread in Turkey, it was from here that coffee was brought to Europe in the 16th century, where it became one of the most popular drinks.
    • Turkish women could leave their husbands for coffee. Yes, you read that right. Several hundred years ago, Turkish women had legal grounds for divorce if their husbands failed to provide them with the required amount of coffee.
    • Most people in Turkey had no surnames until a law was passed in 1934 to give them to all citizens.
    • Julius Caesar uttered his famous words: “Veni, Vidi, Vici” (“He came, he saw, he conquered”) in Turkey when he defeated Pontus, a formidable kingdom in the Black Sea region.

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We hope this post brought you closer to Turkey and that you enjoy your time here.

Pack your bag and waddle on!

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