Turkey was, is, and always will be one of the most stunning places in the world. Steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, Turkey has overcome a lot, including a recent earthquake, to become one of the topmost tourist destinations in the world. But apart from the obvious reasons, what makes Turkey so great? Is it the iconic Sumela Monastery in Turkey? Or is it the fact that it is the only country to be a part of Europe and Asia? Or is it the following interesting facts:
Turkey is home to the oldest city in human civilization, Çatalhöyük. The ruins were once a thriving city in 7500 B.C. in the Western area of Turkey. Today, it is an important UNESCO World Heritage Site where the first Neolithic paintings were also discovered.
Turkey is the place for the oldest evidence of the written word. During the discovery of Assyrian ruins in Anatolia in the 1950s, clay tablets were found at the site with the detailed writings. This was one of the most significant discoveries regarding human civilization and the history of the region.
The world’s beloved Santa Claus, who was born Saint Nicholas, was born in Patara, Turkey, which used to be an important port city of the region and was located on the banks of the Mediterranean Sea.
The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, and Temple of Artemis, both that are part of the ‘Ancient Seven Wonders of the World’, were located in Turkey.
Back in the day when the city of Istanbul was known as Constantinople, it was used as the capital city by the Roman Empire when Constantine the Great was ruling. This is such a strategic location that even the following empires like the Latin Empire and the Ottoman Empire used it as the capital of their respective kingdoms.
Though Istanbul is a major tourist attraction and the most famous city in Turkey, it is not the capital. Ankara is the capital.
The Antalya Museum, featuring more than 5000 exhibits of art, is one of the most highly revered museums in the world, so if you are looking for good things to do in Turkey, you should visit this place.
Ancient Lydia is now a part of Turkey and it is the place where man-made coins were first made to be used as currency. This practice was believed to have started in the 7th century B.C.
The world’s 1st university, Madrasa of Harran, which was the epitome for learning science and other important subjects, ran from the 8th century to the 12th century. It is located in Turkey. The university also shortly opened in the 16th century.
Antioch in Turkey is where the first-ever Christian Church was founded. It is said to be the first church made by men.
Apostle Paul (formerly Saul), Aesop, and Homer were all once born in regions that are now modern-day Turkey.
Turkish food is always rated for being one of the best in the world. Turkish delights, sweets, spicy kebabs, bread, and seafood are highly sought-after by connoisseurs.
Turkey is a history buff’s paradise with 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Each site has something unique and wonderful to offer and attracts millions of tourists each year.
Turkey’s ice cream vendors have now become world-famous owing to their theatrics. They put on a great show and many people buy ice cream just for the experience.
Sumela Monastery in Turkey is one of the famous sites in the country. The monastery is built on a 4000-foot-tall cliff and is one of the most famous sites in the country.
Carpets are an important part of Turkish culture. There are massive carpets markets all over the country. In Konya, you can find the world’s best silk carpet in the Mevlana Museum which shows how beloved carpets are in Turkey.
Turkey is Europe’s coffee capital. You will find some of the finest coffee in the world here which is heated in sand. This brings out the deep flavours in the coffee.
Turkey is also one of the oldest countries in the world to push for equality between men and women with institutions dating back to 1750 that were established for women’s rights. Turkey was also one of the earliest countries to give women voting rights.
If you love beaches, one of the best things to do in Turkey is to visit the pristine beaches. They are ranked amongst the best in the world and even have a blue flag, which is a symbol of cleanliness awarded to European countries.
Though part of Istanbul is in Europe, the major part of the country is in Asia.
Birdwatching enthusiasts have a great time in Turkey because it is one of the main stops for migratory birds. You can see many bird species from around the world take a pit-stop at Bird Lake while on their migratory routes. The whole region is a protected forest.
The Biblical Mount Ararat, where Noah’s Ark had landed, is located on the eastern side of Turkey. Even many other Biblically significant churches like the ones mentioned in the book of Revelations, are in Turkey.
Islam is the largest religion in the country but Turkey is still quite multicultural with people of many different religions and beliefs peacefully living here.
Turks love Facebook! It is the country with the highest platform user rating with many people preferring to use this as a medium to socialise and keep in touch with each other.
Football is the most popular sport in the country with Turkey having its own league called the Super Lig.
Based on the facts stated above, there are many amazing things to do in Turkey. So, if you are thinking of vacationing here, now is one of the best time to be in the country and enjoy it wonderful offerings.
Turkey is an amazing destination for a memorable holiday. There are so many things to do in Turkey that you can plan a leisurely trip and experience the best of Europe and Asia in one destination.
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