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Language: Turkish

“Hello” – Merhaba

“How are you?” – Nasılsın?

“Thank you” – Teşekkür ederim

“Goodbye” – Hoşça kal (if you're staying), Güle güle (to the one leaving)

“Yes” – Evet, “No” – Hayır

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Continent: Europe & Asia (transcontinental).

Capital: Ankara.

Largest city: Istanbul.

Borders: Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Iran, Iraq, Syria.

Population: Approx. 85 million.

Geography: Mountainous regions, coastlines on the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Black Sea.

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When we talk about typical Turkish cuisine, it is important to remark that this country has given the world one of the most popular fast food options: the doner kebab. It is difficult to find someone who has never tried a kebab. In fact, you can find restaurants specialising in this traditional Turkish recipe in some of the most unlikely places on the planet.

However, as well known and popular as the dish is, Turkish cuisine stretches far beyond the kebab. You could even say that Turkey enjoys one of the most varied, rich and delicious cuisines on the planet.

The reason for this lies in the country’s lengthy history, in the different ways it has been influenced by other civilizations and in its geographical location. Turkey serves as a bridge between Europe (particularly through the Mediterranean), the Far East (as a key crossing point between Asia and the West) and most Islamic countries.

Below we will list some of the best-known typical Turkish dishes. However, it’s important to note that there is much more to discover and sample in the country’s many houses and restaurants.

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The economy is diverse, but also vulnerable to inflation and political instability.

Tourism

Automotive manufacturing

Textiles and clothing

Agriculture (olives, cotton, fruits, vegetables)

Construction

Defense and arms industry

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Inflation & economic crisis – The Turkish lira has experienced severe devaluation.

Refugee crisis – Hosting over 3.5 million Syrian refugees.

Human rights concerns – Restrictions on press freedom, political opposition, and protests.

Earthquake risk – Located on several fault lines; major quakes are a threat.

Tensions with neighboring countries – Especially Greece and Syria.

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National Sovereignty and Children’s Day (April 23)

This unique holiday, established by Atatürk, celebrates the founding of the Turkish Grand National Assembly in 1920 and is dedicated entirely to children. Schools organize performances, parades, and children from around the world are invited to Turkey to promote peace and friendship.

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Commemorates the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. It’s a patriotic day with official ceremonies, concerts, fireworks, and people hanging Turkish flags from balconies. It honors Atatürk’s leadership in transforming the country into a modern republic.

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Known as the "Sugar Feast", this 3-day festival marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting. Families gather to share meals, visit elders, and give candy and small gifts to children. It’s a joyful time of generosity, forgiveness, and community bonding.

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Ancient Period (before 1200 BCE)

Anatolia was home to early civilizations such as the Hittites, Luwians, and Urartians.

Göbekli Tepe, the world’s oldest known temple (around 9600 BCE), was built in southeastern Turkey

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Mustafa Kemal Atatürk – Founder of modern Turkey

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan – Current president (controversial and influential)

Orhan Pamuk – Nobel Prize-winning author

Tarkan – Pop music star

Nusret "Salt Bae" Gökçe – Celebrity chef and internet personality

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The Festival of Sacrifice, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son. Families traditionally sacrifice a sheep or cow and distribute the meat to the poor, relatives, and neighbors. It’s also a time for large family gatherings and acts of charity.

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Formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, it's the only city in the world that straddles two continents: Europe and Asia.

Hagia Sophia: A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture; originally a church, then a mosque, museum, and now again a mosque. Known for its massive dome and mosaics.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): Famous for its six minarets and beautiful blue Iznik tiles inside.

Topkapi Palace: The imperial residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries. It houses precious Islamic relics and Ottoman treasures.

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Halay

– A popular folk dance in eastern and southeastern Turkey, performed in a line or circle with linked hands.

Zeybek

– A slow, proud dance from the Aegean region, symbolizing heroism and strength.

Belly Dance

– Known locally as “Oryantal Dans,” it’s a vibrant and expressive dance often performed at weddings and celebrations.

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Why it’s famous: A surreal landscape of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides.

Hot Air Balloon Rides: One of the most iconic experiences in Turkey — flying over the unique rock formations at sunrise.

Göreme Open-Air Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient churches carved into rock, many decorated with frescoes.

Underground Cities (Derinkuyu & Kaymaklı): Complex multi-level cities carved deep into the earth, used for shelter during invasions.

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Offering tea (çay) is a beloved daily ritual and a symbol of hospitality. Guests are always welcomed with a glass of hot, strong tea served in tulip-shaped glasses. Turks are known for their warmth and friendliness toward guests, even strangers.

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Why it’s famous: White travertine terraces formed by calcium-rich thermal waters cascading down the hills.

Thermal Pools: Visitors can walk barefoot through warm, shallow pools while enjoying the surreal white landscape.

Hierapolis: An ancient Greco-Roman spa city located above the terraces, featuring a large necropolis, theater, and ancient baths.

Cleopatra’s Pool: A thermal pool where you can swim among submerged Roman columns, rumored to be a favorite of Cleopatra herself.

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Classical Antiquity (1200 BCE – 330 CE)

The region became part of Greek and later Roman civilizations.

Important cities like Troy, Ephesus, and Pergamon thrived.

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Byzantine Empire (330 – 1453)

In 330 CE, Constantinople (now Istanbul) was founded by Emperor Constantine.

It became the capital of the Byzantine Empire, a Christian continuation of the Roman Empire.

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Why it’s famous: One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.

Library of Celsus: An iconic Roman structure; once held over 12,000 scrolls.

Great Theatre: Could seat up to 25,000 people and is still used for performances today.

Temple of Artemis: One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, though only ruins remain.

Terrace Houses: Luxurious Roman homes with intricate mosaics and wall paintings.

Virgin Mary’s House: A pilgrimage site believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary.

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Ottoman Empire (1299 – 1922)

The Ottoman Turks rose to power in the late 13th century.

In 1453, they captured Constantinople, making it the heart of the Ottoman Empire.

The empire lasted for over 600 years, ruling parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa.

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Republic of Turkey (1923 – present)

After World War I and the fall of the Ottomans, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk led the War of Independence.

In 1923, the Republic of Turkey was officially founded.

Atatürk introduced major reforms to modernize and secularize the country.