Turkey
blends ancient empires, vibrant culture and dramatic landscapes
across two continents. Discover the surprising facts, hidden stories
and cultural insights that reveal the deeper character of this
remarkable crossroads nation.
• Turkey is home to two continents — Europe and Asia — meeting in Istanbul.
• The country’s national sport is oil wrestling, a tradition dating back centuries.
• Tulips originated in Turkey long before becoming associated with the Netherlands.
• Turkish tea is consumed more per capita than almost anywhere in the world.
• Cats in Istanbul are famously cared for by the entire community.
• The world’s first known temple, Göbekli Tepe, predates Stonehenge by thousands of years.
• Money (coin currency) was first minted in ancient Lydia, in modern-day Turkey.
• Turkish coffee culture is recognised by UNESCO.
• Cappadocia’s underground cities are some of the oldest subterranean dwellings ever discovered.
• Shoes must be removed before entering many homes and some traditional spaces.
• Hospitality is central — offering tea is a common gesture of welcome.
• Public affection is generally modest, especially outside major cities.
• Respect for Atatürk, the country’s founding leader, is deeply important.
• Women’s dress expectations vary by region, with coastal areas being more relaxed.
• Mustafa Kemal Atatürk founded the modern Turkish Republic.
• Orhan Pamuk is a Nobel Prize–winning author.
• Nusr-Et (Salt Bae) brought modern global fame to Turkish dining culture.
• Elif Şafak is one of Turkey’s most internationally recognised writers.
• Istanbul is the only major city spanning two continents.
• Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys are among the world’s most unique landscapes.
• Pamukkale’s white travertine pools are formed by mineral-rich waters.
• Turkey has over 8,000 km of coastline.
• Mount Ararat is Turkey’s highest peak and steeped in legend.
• Turkish people value strong family connections and community.
• Meals are long, social and often shared.
• Outdoor cafés and teahouses are central to daily life.
• Traditional markets (bazaars) remain important gathering places.
• Turkish breakfast is a large, varied and leisurely meal.
• The Nazar Boncuğu (evil eye charm) is worn for protection.
• Music traditions range from Ottoman classical to modern pop.
• Hamams (Turkish baths) are a long-standing wellness ritual.
• Turkey was home to the Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman Empires.
• Ephesus holds some of the best-preserved ancient ruins in the world.
• The Hagia Sophia has served as a basilica, mosque and museum.
• Troy, the legendary city, is located in northwest Turkey.
• The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most iconic structures.
• Cappadocia’s hot air balloon flights offer world-renowned sunrise views.
• Sumela Monastery clings dramatically to a cliffside in the Pontic Mountains.
• Mount Nemrut’s colossal statues remain one of Turkey’s great archaeological mysteries.
• Istanbul spans Europe and Asia.
• Göbekli Tepe is the world’s oldest temple.
• Tulips originated in Turkey.
• Turkish tea is widely consumed daily.
• Pamukkale’s terraces are mineral-rich.
• Cappadocia has underground cities.
• Ephesus is exceptionally well preserved.
• The evil eye charm is everywhere.
• Turkish breakfast is famously huge.
• Troy is located in Turkey.
• Cats roam freely in Istanbul.
• Turkey has 8,000+ km of coastline.