Turkey is a country in Europe and Asia, officially the Republic of Turkey or Republic of Türkiye.
Interesting Facts & Things to Know about Turkey
Turkey is a country of rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Here are some interesting facts about Turkey:
1. Turkey is Located in Both Europe and Asia
Turkey is a transcontinental country, with 97% of its land in Asia and 3% in Europe. The Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul separates the two continents.
2. Istanbul is the Only City in the World on Two Continents
Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, is the only city in the world that spans two continents - Europe and Asia.
3. Turkey is Home to One of the Oldest Cities in the World
The ancient city of Çatalhöyük, dating back to 7,500 BCE, is considered one of the earliest known human settlements.
4. The First Ever Coins Were Minted in Turkey
The first known metal coins were created in Lydia (modern-day Turkey) around 600 BCE.
5. Turkey is Famous for Its Tea Culture
Despite being known for Turkish coffee, Turkey is actually one of the biggest tea-drinking countries in the world. The average person drinks about 1,300 cups of tea per year!
6. The Country is Home to Two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
Turkey was home to:
7. Santa Claus Was Born in Turkey
The legend of Santa Claus comes from Saint Nicholas, a Christian bishop born in Patara, Turkey, in the 3rd century.
8. Turkish Delight is Over 500 Years Old
Lokum (Turkish Delight), the famous sweet, has been made since the 15th century and remains popular worldwide.
9. The Grand Bazaar is One of the Oldest and Largest Markets
Located in Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar was built in 1461 and has over 4,000 shops, making it one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.
10. Cappadocia’s Unique Landscape Was Formed by Volcanic Eruptions
The Cappadocia region, famous for its fairy chimneys and hot air balloons, was shaped by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago.
Conclusion
Turkey is a blend of ancient history, cultural traditions, and modern attractions. From Istanbul’s rich heritage to Cappadocia’s magical landscapes, it is a country full of fascinating stories and landmarks.
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