Turkey, a country that spans both Europe and Asia, is a place of many stories, where the past and present come together to create a vibrant tapestry of culture and life. The country is like a melting pot with different pieces stitched together, each representing a unique chapter in its history. Studying and living in Turkey is like flipping through a photo album of diverse landscapes, each one telling a different story.

Area – 783,563 sq. km;

Capital – Ankara;

National language – Turkish;

Currency – lira (TRY).

Turkey’s culture is a blend of influences from its rich history. Turkish culture is a captivating mosaic, blending centuries of history with vibrant traditions and warm hospitality. At its heart is a deep sense of national identity, where family traditions and hospitality hold paramount importance. Guests are welcomed with open arms, and sharing a meal, often featuring the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine like kebabs and baklava, is a cherished tradition.

Map

Turkey, a country straddling Europe and Asia, has a geography as diverse as its rich history and culture. Picture Turkey as a place with each region offering a unique piece of the story. In the west, you find the Aegean Region, a place of postcard-perfect beauty with olive groves and ancient ruins like Ephesus and Troy. Heading north, you discover the Black Sea Region, a green paradise with mountains and vibrant traditions. The Pontic Mountains, hugging the Black Sea, create a unique backdrop of lush landscapes. Eastward lies Cappadocia, a land straight out of a fairy tale. The heart of Turkey—the Central Anatolian Plateau. It’s like a different world, with vast plateaus, rocky terrains, and Ankara, the capital city, proudly standing at its center.

Language

The Turkish language, with its melodious rhythm and unique linguistic features, serves as a cultural cornerstone for the people of Turkey. As a member of the Turkic language family, Turkish is the official language of the Republic of Turkey and holds significant historical and cultural importance. While Modern Turkish kept its cultural richness and historical ties, it adapted to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world. The language takes expressions from various domains, from technology and medicine to popular culture. 

Culture 

Turkish culture, a vibrant tapestry with its own history, traditions, and a fusion of influences from various civilizations reflects the unique identity of this transcontinental nation. From the warmth of hospitality to the richness of its cuisine, Turkish culture is a dynamic blend of the old and the new, rooted in the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Turkey has a rich history of traditional arts and crafts. Turkish carpets, with their intricate designs and vibrant colors, are celebrated worldwide. Turkey celebrates a variety of festivals and holidays, blending both religious and secular traditions. Experiencing Turkish culture is an immersive journey into a world where heritage and contemporary life intersect.

Climate 

Turkey’s climate is diverse, reflecting its geographical location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The country experiences a range of climatic conditions, from Mediterranean along the coasts to continental in the interior, influenced by mountainous terrain and proximity to different bodies of water.  Turkey’s weather is a mosaic of different influences, offering a variety of experiences for both residents and international students. Whether chilling in the Mediterranean sun, exploring the temperate Black Sea coast, or braving the winter chill in the high plateaus, Turkey’s climate adds depth to its already diverse landscape. The Cappadocia region, with its unique rock formations, experiences different temperature variations, making it a popular destination year-round. 

Economy 

The Turkish economy is a diverse and dynamic mix of industries, agriculture, and services that has undergone significant changes over the years. Turkey, positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has a strategic geographical location that contributes to its role as a bridge between different regions. The services sector, which includes tourism, finance, and real estate, is a major contributor to Turkey’s economic activity. Manufacturing and industry play a significant role, with a focus on automotive, textiles, electronics, and more. Agriculture, though less prominent in terms of GDP, remains vital for rural livelihoods.

Population 

Turkey is home to a diverse population, numbering over 82 million people as of the last available data. The population has experienced consistent growth over the years, with a combination of natural increase and immigration contributing to its expansion. Turkey is characterized by ethnic diversity, with the majority of the population identifying as Turkish. Additionally, there are ethnic minorities, including Kurds, Arabs, and others, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the country. This diversity is reflective of Turkey’s historical role as a crossroads between continents and civilizations.

Transportation

Turkey has a well-developed and extensive transportation system that includes various modes of transport to facilitate the movement of people and goods. The country has a vast network of modern highways that connect major cities and regions. These well-maintained roads contribute to efficient and comfortable travel. Public buses operate in cities and towns, providing affordable transportation for daily commuters. Intercity buses connect different regions, offering a cost-effective means of long-distance travel. Major cities like Istanbul and Ankara have metro systems and tram networks that facilitate convenient and rapid transit within urban areas.