Turkey - The Republic of Turkey

The Republic of Turkey, established in 1923, draws its roots from two historical sources that extend deep into the past. One of these sources inherited by modern Turkey is the successful and brilliant history of the Turks spanning over 4,000 years. The other is the fact that Turks have been living in Anatolia since the 11th century.

When Anatolia is mentioned, visitors probably imagine a treeless, vast, and somewhat harsh landscape heralding the vastness of Asia. While this thought is partially true, the region actually possesses a geographical richness that amazes travelers with its diversity and impressiveness.

In these lands that harbor traces of ancient cultures and vibrant commercial activity, you feel the warmth and sincerity of the Turks, whose hospitality is even the subject of proverbs, at every corner. Those who travel this country often witness invitations for tea, home visits, or sometimes conversations limited to sincere gestures.

3% of the country is located in the European Continent, while 97% is in Asia Minor (Anatolia). Throughout history, it has served as a bridge between East and West.

As you progress along the old, worn paths described even in the Bible, a country shaped by its role as a connection point between East and West for thousands of years unfolds before the visitor. Such a country that deserves an honorable place in Europe's museum of curiosities with its colorfulness.

The naming of the country and its regions can sometimes be confusing. The name "Turkey," incorrectly used in daily language for the Ottoman Empire as well, refers to today's state borders, namely the Republic of Turkey. The term "Asia Minor" has been used throughout history to describe only the peninsula between the Black Sea, Mediterranean, and Aegean. This name emerged in ancient times and was initially based on "Asia," a pre-Greek name covering the eastern shores of the Aegean. During the Roman period (Provincia Asia = Western Anatolia), it spread across the entire peninsula and became "Asia Minor." Similarly, the concept of "Anatolia" has expanded from west to east. This term, whose origin means "Anatolikon - the land where the sun rises," initially pointed to the neighboring lands east of the Greeks.