You are at : home » world » europe » turkey

Turkey

Turkey has a population of 75,627,384 people, Turkey's capital city is Ankara and largest city Istanbul.

Turkey personel income per capita $10,362, jobless rate 5.50% and its currency Turkish Lira (TRY) . Turkey official languages and mostly spoken dialects are Turkish, ethnics groups : 70–75% Turks, 18% Kurds, 7–12% others.

Map Turkey

Map of Turkey

Content Detail
Turkey's Largest Cities Map

Turkey

Capital : Ankara
Population : 75,627,384
GDP : $774.336 billion
Per Capita : $10,362
Calling Code : +90
Jobless Rate : 9.30%
Area : 783,562 km2 (37th) 302,535 sq mi
Largest City : Istanbul
President :
Prime Minister :
Currency : Turkish Lira (TRY)
Time Zone : +2
Internet Ext. : .com.tr
Inflation Rate : 7.31%
Interest Rate : 5.50%
Debt GDP : 39.40%
Languages : Turkish
Ethnicity : 70–75% Turks, 18% Kurds, 7–12% others

15 Best Places to Visit in Istanbul

Please subscribe on "World Guide" channnel on Youtube at youtube.com/c/WorldGuide

Discovering the Gems of Mugla Top 10 Must-Visit Spots

Turkey Geography & Climate

Turkey is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, bridging the two continents through the straits of Bosporus and Dardanelles, making its geography unique and strategically important. It's land area spans approximately 783,356 square kilometers, surrounded by seas on three sides: the Aegean Sea to the west, the Black Sea to the north, and the Mediterranean to the south. Its borders are shared with eight countries: Greece and Bulgaria to the northwest; Georgia to the northeast; Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Iran to the east; and Iraq and Syria to the south.

Turkey's terrain is varied, with coastal plains gradually giving way to massive mountain ranges as you move inland. The country's highest peak, Mount Ararat, stands at 5,137 meters. The central part of the country is characterized by a high plateau known as Anatolia, while the eastern part is dominated by rugged mountainous terrain. The country's diverse geography supports a wide range of climates, from the temperate along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, to harsher conditions in the mountainous east. This distinct geography contributes significantly to Turkey's rich biodiversity and its varied agricultural output.

Turkey's climate is as diverse as its geography, with significant variations across different regions. Coastal areas along the Aegean and Mediterranean seas enjoy a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The Black Sea region, on the other hand, experiences a temperate oceanic climate with high rainfall throughout the year, leading to lush vegetation and extensive forests. Central Anatolia, the heartland of the country, experiences a more extreme continental climate with very hot summers and bitterly cold winters. The eastern part of the country, particularly the mountainous regions, experiences long, harsh winters and short, hot summers. This wide range of climatic conditions makes Turkey home to diverse flora and fauna, and allows for a variety of agricultural activities, ranging from citrus fruits along the Mediterranean coast to grains in the Anatolian heartland.

Where is Turkey & Map of Turkey

Click for Turkey Map!

Turkey History

Turkey, known as Anatolia in ancient times, has a rich and complex history that dates back to the earliest civilizations. This region has been home to a multitude of societies and empires over the millennia, owing to its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The first major empire to rise in this area was the Hittite Empire around 1600 BCE. Following the Hittites, the region saw the rise and fall of several significant powers, including the Phrygian, Lydian, Persian, and Alexander the Great's Macedonian Empire.

With the decline of Alexander's empire, Anatolia became part of the Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire. The city of Byzantium, later renamed Constantinople and now known as Istanbul, was the capital of the Byzantine Empire and a hub of trade and culture for centuries. Christianity also spread throughout the region during this period, and Constantinople became a major center of the Christian world.

In the 11th century, Seljuk Turks began to migrate into Anatolia, marking the start of Turkish dominion. By the end of the 13th century, the Ottoman Turks began to consolidate power, and over the next few hundred years, they expanded their territories across three continents, forming the Ottoman Empire. The empire's rule lasted until World War I, after which it was partitioned by the victorious allies. The Turkish War of Independence, led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, resulted in the abolition of the sultanate and the establishment of the modern Republic of Turkey in 1923. Atatürk introduced a series of reforms aimed at modernizing and secularizing the country, many of which still shape Turkey's sociopolitical landscape today.

Ottoman Empire Era

The Ottoman Empire, also known as the Turkish Empire, was a significant historical state that existed from the 13th century to the early 20th century. At its peak, the empire spanned three continents, covering vast territories in Southeast Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. Founded by Osman I in 1299, the empire gradually expanded through military conquests, diplomacy, and strategic alliances. It reached its zenith of power and influence under Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, known as the "Golden Age" of the empire. The Ottoman Empire was characterized by its strong centralized government, multiculturalism, and religious tolerance, particularly towards non-Muslims under the millet system. However, internal conflicts, military defeats, and external pressures from European powers led to the empire's decline. The empire ultimately collapsed at the end of World War I, and its remnants were transformed into the modern Republic of Turkey in 1923.

The Ottoman Empire left a profound impact on the regions it once controlled. It was known for its elaborate administrative structure, with the Sultan as the supreme ruler and the Caliph as the religious leader of the Muslim world. The empire's architectural marvels, such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, stand as testament to its grandeur. The Ottoman Empire also had a rich cultural heritage, blending influences from various civilizations it encountered throughout its history. It produced significant contributions in art, literature, music, and cuisine, fusing elements from Byzantine, Islamic, and Persian traditions. The empire's legacy is still evident in the diverse cultural identities of modern countries that were once part of its territories. Despite its ultimate decline, the Ottoman Empire remains an important chapter in world history, showcasing the complexities of empires and their lasting impact on the world.

Republic of Turkey

The Republic of Turkey, established on October 29, 1923, is a transcontinental country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It emerged from the remnants of the Ottoman Empire under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who became its first president. Atatürk initiated sweeping political, social, and cultural reforms to modernize the country and create a secular nation-state. These reforms included the adoption of a new legal system, the introduction of Western-style education, the granting of equal rights to women, and the promotion of a Latin-based alphabet to replace the Arabic script. Turkey has a parliamentary system of government with a president as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. Over the years, Turkey has experienced significant economic growth and has become a regional power with a diverse economy, including industries such as manufacturing, tourism, agriculture, and services. It is a member of NATO and has sought to deepen its integration with the European Union.

Turkey's unique geographical location provides it with a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is home to ancient civilizations such as the Hittites, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines, leaving behind numerous archaeological sites and landmarks. The country is also known for its vibrant cultural traditions, including its cuisine, music, literature, and traditional arts such as Turkish carpets and ceramics. Turkey is renowned for its natural beauty, with diverse landscapes ranging from stunning coastal areas along the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas to the majestic mountains of Eastern Anatolia. Moreover, Turkey serves as a bridge between different cultures and civilizations, embracing a mix of Eastern and Western influences. While it faces challenges such as political tensions, economic inequality, and regional conflicts, Turkey continues to strive for progress, development, and integration into the global community.

Turkey Demographics & Ethnicity

Turkey is a diverse country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, and it has a complex demographic and ethnic composition. The majority of the population is of Turkish ethnicity, accounting for around 70-75% of the total population. The remaining population consists of various ethnic groups, including Kurds, Arabs, Circassians, Bosniaks, and Laz, among others. The Kurdish population is one of the largest ethnic minority groups in Turkey, primarily residing in the southeastern and eastern regions. Despite efforts to promote a sense of national unity and Turkish identity, cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic differences among these ethnic groups have sometimes led to tensions and challenges in the country.

In recent years, Turkey has experienced an influx of refugees, particularly from neighboring countries affected by conflicts, such as Syria and Iraq. This has further diversified the demographic landscape of the country. Additionally, there are smaller communities of non-Muslim minorities, including Armenians, Greeks, Jews, and Assyrians, who have historical roots in the region. These communities have significantly diminished in size over the years due to various factors, including population exchanges and emigration. Overall, Turkey's demographic and ethnic diversity contribute to its rich cultural heritage but also pose ongoing social and political complexities that the country continues to navigate.

Turkey Population : 75,627,384, Area : 783,562 km2 (37th) 302,535 sq mi
Turkey Capital : Ankara, Largest City : Istanbul
Languages : Turkish, Ethnicity : 70–75% Turks, 18% Kurds, 7–12% others.

Turkey Economy

Turkey GDP : $774.336 billion, Per Capita : $10,362
Jobless Rate : 9.30% , Currency : Turkish Lira (TRY)
Inflation Rate : 7.31% , Interest Rate : 5.50%
Debt GDP : 39.40% , Internet Ext. : .com.tr
Calling Code : +90 , Time Zone : +2

Turkey has a diverse and emerging economy that has undergone significant transformation in recent decades. The country's strategic location between Europe and Asia, along with its well-developed infrastructure, has positioned it as a key player in regional trade and investment. Turkey's economy is characterized by a mix of industries, including manufacturing, services, agriculture, and tourism.

Over the years, Turkey has experienced periods of impressive economic growth, attracting foreign direct investment and becoming a hub for export-oriented industries. The manufacturing sector, particularly automotive, textiles, and electronics, plays a crucial role in Turkey's economic landscape, contributing significantly to employment and export revenues. The services sector, including finance, telecommunications, and tourism, has also shown resilience and contributed to the country's economic growth.

However, Turkey has faced some challenges in recent years. High inflation rates, fiscal imbalances, and a large current account deficit have put pressure on the economy. The volatility of the Turkish lira and geopolitical uncertainties have also created uncertainties for investors. The government has implemented various measures to address these challenges, including fiscal reforms, monetary policy adjustments, and structural reforms to enhance the investment climate and promote sustainable growth.

Despite the challenges, Turkey's economy has shown resilience and continues to attract foreign investment. The country has a young and educated workforce, a large domestic market, and a growing middle class, which presents opportunities for businesses and investors. Furthermore, Turkey's strategic location and strong trade relationships with neighboring countries and major global economies position it as a gateway to regional and international markets. With ongoing efforts to address economic vulnerabilities and implement necessary reforms, Turkey has the potential to maintain its economic growth trajectory and further strengthen its position as an emerging market.

Turkey Goverment & Military

Turkey is a parliamentary republic with a democratic system of governance. The country operates under a constitution that provides for a separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The President of Turkey, who is elected by popular vote for a five-year term, serves as the head of state and has significant executive powers. The government is led by the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the President and oversees the day-to-day administration of the country.

The Turkish Armed Forces, known as the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF), play a crucial role in Turkey's security and defense. The military is one of the largest and most modern in the region, with branches including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Gendarmerie. The TAF has historically played an influential role in Turkish politics and has carried out several coups in the past. However, in recent years, the government has taken steps to enhance civilian control over the military and strengthen democratic institutions.

Turkey is a member of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) and plays an active role in regional security affairs. The country has been involved in various peacekeeping missions and has contributed troops to international operations. The TAF has also been engaged in combating terrorism, particularly against groups like the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and the Islamic State (IS). The government has made efforts to modernize and strengthen the military by investing in defense technologies and expanding its defense industry capabilities. Overall, the Turkish government and military work together to ensure national security, uphold democratic values, and contribute to regional stability.

Turkey Religion & Culture

Turkey has a rich religious and cultural heritage that is influenced by its historical connections to various civilizations and empires. The majority of the population in Turkey identifies as Muslim, with Islam being the dominant religion. However, the country has a secular constitution that guarantees freedom of religion and allows for the practice of different faiths. In addition to Islam, there are also Christian, Jewish, and other religious minority communities in Turkey.

Turkish culture is a vibrant blend of different influences, combining elements from the Turkic, Ottoman, and Anatolian civilizations. The country has a diverse cultural landscape, with regional variations in language, cuisine, music, and traditional arts. Turkish cuisine is renowned worldwide, known for its rich flavors and use of fresh ingredients. Traditional Turkish music, including folk and classical genres, holds a special place in the cultural heritage of the country, with instruments such as the oud and saz being prominently featured. Turkish literature, architecture, and visual arts have also made significant contributions to the country's cultural identity.

Turkey is home to numerous historical and archaeological sites, including ancient cities, mosques, churches, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. These landmarks showcase the country's cultural wealth and attract visitors from around the world. Festivals and celebrations, such as the annual Whirling Dervishes festival and the international İstanbul Film Festival, further contribute to the cultural vibrancy of Turkey. The preservation and promotion of cultural heritage are valued in Turkey, and efforts are made to safeguard and showcase the country's rich traditions and customs.

Turkey Largest Cities

Antalya Map - Ardahan Map - Artvin Map - Aydin Map - Balikesir Map - Bartin Map - Batman Map - Bayburt Map - Bilecik Map - Bingol Map - Bitlis Map - Bolu Map - Burdur Map - Bursa Map - Canakkale Map - Cankiri Map - Corum Map - Denizli Map - Diyarbakir Map - Duzce Map - Edirne Map - Elazig Map - Erzincan Map - Erzurum Map - Eskisehir Map - Gaziantep Map - Giresun Map - Gumushane Map - Hakkari Map - Hatay Map - Igdir Map - Isparta Map - Icel Map - Istanbul Map - Izmir Map - Kahramanmaras Map - Mersin Map - Izmit Map - Antakya Map - Adapazari Map - Adana Map - Adiyaman Map - Afyon Map - Agri Map - Aksaray Map - Amasya Map - Ankara Map - Karabuk Map - Karaman Map - Kars Map - Kastamonu Map - Kayseri Map - Kirikkale Map - Kirklareli Map - Kirsehir Map - Kilis Map - Kocaeli Map - Konya Map - Kutahya Map - Malatya Map - Manisa Map - Mardin Map - Mugla Map - Mus Map - Nevsehir Map - Nigde Map - Ordu Map - Osmaniye Map - Rize Map - Sakarya Map - Samsun Map - Siirt Map - Sinop Map - Sivas Map - Sanliurfa Map - Sirnak Map - Tekirdag Map - Tokat Map - Trabzon Map - Tunceli Map - Usak Map - Van Map - Yalova Map - Yozgat Map - Zonguldak Map - North Cyprus Map -