Turkey Country Facts
Land of empires, magical bazaars, Ottoman palaces, coastal beauty, and east-meets-west charm.
Quick Country Facts
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Country Name | Republic of Türkiye |
| Capital | Ankara |
| Continent | Asia (partly in Europe) |
| Population | ~85 million (Rank: ~18th globally) |
| Official Language | Turkish |
| Currency | Turkish Lira (TRY) |
| Time Zone | GMT +3 |
| Calling Code | +90 |
Short Fact: Turkey – Where Continents, Cultures, and Civilizations Collide
Turkey is uniquely located between Asia and Europe, blending ancient empires, Islamic and secular traditions, Mediterranean coastlines, and modern Turkish identity.
Long Fact: Turkey – The Bridge Between East and West
Turkey, officially the Republic of Türkiye, is a transcontinental country straddling Western Asia and Southeastern Europe, with the Bosporus Strait dividing the two continents. Its unique geography has made it the home of powerful civilizations, including the Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman Empires.
The capital, Ankara, is the administrative center, while Istanbul—formerly Constantinople—is the cultural and economic heart of the nation. Istanbul is the only major city in the world located on two continents.
Turkey is famous for its historic sites, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Troy, and Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys. These reflect its layered history of Christianity, Islam, and secular reform.
The country has a strong culinary tradition — from kebabs, baklava, and mezes to Turkish tea and coffee. Its bazaar culture, especially in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, offers a feast of spices, carpets, and handicrafts.
Turkey’s population is majority Muslim, but it follows a secular constitution. It is a presidential republic, with modern infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
The country has a rich cultural heritage, seen in whirling dervish ceremonies, Turkish music, and folk dance traditions like the Halay. Its famous festivals include Victory Day, Republic Day, and Eid celebrations.
Tourism, agriculture, textiles, and automotive manufacturing form the backbone of Turkey’s diverse economy.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey
Q1. Is Turkey in Europe or Asia?
Ans: Both. Turkey is a transcontinental country, with 97% of its land in Asia and 3% in Europe.
Q2. What is Turkey known for?
Ans: Ottoman history, Istanbul, Hagia Sophia, Turkish cuisine, and diverse landscapes.
Q3. What language is spoken in Turkey?
Ans: Turkish is the official language.
Q4. Is Turkey a secular country?
Ans: Yes, Turkey has a secular constitution despite being predominantly Muslim.
Q5. What is the capital of Turkey?
Ans: Ankara, though Istanbul is more famous globally.
Q6. What are the best tourist places in Turkey?
Ans: Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Antalya, and Istanbul.
Q7. What is Turkish cuisine famous for?
Ans: Doner kebab, mezes, pide, lokum (Turkish delight), and Turkish tea.
Q8. What is the currency of Turkey?
Ans: Turkish Lira (TRY).
Q9. Is Turkey part of the EU?
Ans: No, Turkey is not a member of the European Union, but it is a member of NATO.
Q10. What is special about the Bosporus Strait?
Ans: It divides Asia and Europe and flows right through Istanbul.