Turkey is a country with a rich history that dates back thousands of years and has a complex mixture of culture, history, and landscapes, which is extremely fascinating to visitors. From its lively bazaars to its exquisite cuisine, Turkey thrills each of the five senses at every point.
Turks are exceptionally kind people. They invite tourists to their houses and ensure that they have something to eat and drink before leaving. A few of the most popular dishes from Turkey include kebabs, baklava, and the infamous Turkish ice cream!
10. Istanbul: The connecting point of two continents
Istanbul is a particularly unique and remarkable city because it serves as the only crossroad of Europe and Asia. The Bosphorus Strait acts as a natural barrier and splits the city in half, with Asia to the east and Europe to the west. Istanbul’s unique history, culture, and identity have all been greatly influenced by its location as the link between the East and the West.
9. The largest and oldest marketplaces in the world: The Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar in Turkey is one of most iconic and charismatic tourist attractions. It is one of the biggest and oldest covered markets in the world, having been around since the 15th century.
People say that the market is a labyrinth as tourists describe it similar to being lost in the wilderness.Visitors can indulge in the vibrant atmosphere while also bargaining for one-of-a-kind purchases.
8. Largest Tulip Festival: Istanbul Lale Festivali
Holland in The Netherlands is the home of the colorful tulip flower and is a leading player in the Tulip industry, but did you know that they originated from the lands that are now within the border of Turkey?
Turkey’s Istanbul is host to the World’s Largest Tulip Festival, known as the Istanbul Lale Festivali, which takes place every April. Istanbul, covered in millions of tulips, produces an amazing show of nature’s beauty. The festival honors the long-lasting significance of tulips in Turkish culture.
7. Evil eye: The best-selling souvenir
The “Evil eye” is the most popular tourist souvenir in Turkey. People believe that an envious person is able to curse you with an “evil glare” and bring bad luck your way, and people wear it to keep themselves safe and protected from negative energy and jealousy. This tradition is more than 3000 years old, and it is known as “Nazar boncuğu” in Turkish.
The Evil Eye is also a symbol of spiritual awareness and mindfulness. Its popularity as a keepsake reflects its strong attraction and broad trust in its ability to fend off evil and bring good fortune.
6. Religion and culture: Turkey is home to more than 80,000 mosques
There are a total of 82,693 mosques in Turkey and most of them are in the country’s largest city, Istanbul. Istanbul has a total of 3,113 mosques which includes the historical Sultanahmet Mosque which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s famous for its history, architecture, and interior decor.These famous imperial mosques in Turkey make this country more special and add to the country’s uniqueness in various ways.
These offer breathtaking architecture with a deep historical background, individual story, and fascinating past. Grab the opportunity of the best Turkey travel packages to discover the spiritual atmosphere of these mosques along with significant historical landmarks, breathtaking natural formations, and much more.
5. Turkey’s love for tea
Turks love tea no less than the British, Indians, and Chinese. Almost 96% of the population drinks at least one cup of tea a day. Turkish tea holds a special place in Turkish culture and society. It is so much more than just a beverage because it’s a symbol of culture. It lightens the spirit of hospitality and tradition in Turkey. Sharing tea is a common way for Turks to connect with friends, family, and even strangers as well. Offering tea to guests is a gesture of friendship. Turkish people serve their tea not in cups but in small tulip-shaped glass cups. They retain heat and showcase the tea’s rich color.
4. Home to Two of the seven wonders of the ancient world
Turkey is home to two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus which was dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and fertility. The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus which was a monumental tomb built for Mausolus, the satrap of Caria, and his wife Artemisia II.
Both the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus were masterpieces of their time. They reflected the peak of ancient craftsmanship, engineering, and expression of art. Despite their eventual destruction and disappearance, their memory lives on in the pages of history. It inspires wonder and adoration in people all around the world.
3. Birthplace of Santa Claus
Historical and cultural associations draw the connection between Turkey and the figure of Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas. Saint Nicholas is said to have been born in Patara, a city in modern-day Turkey, around 280 A.D.. Patara which was a province of the Roman Empire.
People know Saint Nicholas for his acts of kindness and generosity, particularly towards children and those in need. The Dutch settlers in America brought stories of “Sinterklaas,” a figure based on Saint Nicholas. It eventually evolved into the Santa Claus we know today. It is the historical homeland of Saint Nicholas, whose legacy as a generous individual and protector of children, It helped shape the figure we know today as Santa Claus.
2. Cappadocia: Balloon Festival
The Cappadocia Balloon Festival in Turkey is the only event in which over 160 hot air balloons fly at the same time. Turkish hosts the festival in the Cappadocia region. The Cappadocia Balloon Festival in Turkey is indeed a spectacular event. It showcases the beauty of the Cappadocia region from a unique perspective.
The festival attracts thousands of visitors from around the world, providing a significant boost to tourism. It is a celebration of the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Cappadocia region, offering an unforgettable experience for all who attend. It has become a centerpiece of Turkey’s event calendar, attracting attention and interest from visitors all over the world.
1. Turkey is one of the leading producers of Wine
While wine is deeply ingrained in French culture, and France is one of the leading players in wine production similarly Turkey is not far behind. Turkey has a long tradition of winemaking stretching thousands of years, making it one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions. Turkey boasts a wide variety of indigenous grape cultivars, some of which are unique to the region. With its unique indigenous grape variety and modern wine industry, Turkey continues to make its mark on the global wine industry.
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