Turkey holds a prestigious position among the best global tourist destinations. Due to its wide fame, some may think they are familiar with all the hidden treasures this ancient land holds. However, a journey across Turkey will unveil astonishing facts and rich information that may not be familiar to many.
In this article, we embark on an enjoyable journey to discover some of Turkey’s hidden secrets and shed light on unique aspects that many may not know about this historic country.
10 Facts You May Not Know About Turkey
- Turkey occupies a strategic location overlooking four seas, including the Black Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, the Aegean Sea, and the Sea of Marmara. Despite not having vast desert areas, Turkey is characterized by extensive green landscapes. Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and is renowned for its traditional markets, beaches, and museums, making it an attractive tourist destination for visitors coming to Turkey.
- The Turkish flag is something sacred, not in the religious sense of sanctity, but Turks hold deep loyalty and reverence to it to the extent that you will find it everywhere. Additionally, there is a certain caution that must be observed when dealing with the Turkish flag. It is not permissible to wear it or use it as a piece of clothing, crumple or fold it, drag or pull it, or stand on it. Insulting the Turkish flag is considered a crime punishable under Turkish law.
- Turkey has 82,693 mosques, which is the largest number of mosques in a single country worldwide. Most Turkish mosques are distributed across different regions of the country, but there is a significant concentration of these mosques in Istanbul, the largest Turkish city. Among these important and famous mosques is the Blue Mosque, which is considered one of the prominent tourist attractions in Turkey. The Blue Mosque stands out with its unique and beautiful design, characterized by its vibrant blue domes and minarets, as well as its luxurious interior decorations.
- The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is the oldest and largest covered market in the world. It is one of the most fascinating places where you can shop and find everything you need. The bazaar consists of approximately 61 covered streets and houses over 4,000 diverse shops. You can find a wide range of products, ranging from traditional handicrafts and precious jewelry to clothing, fabrics, and art pieces.
- Among the ancient Seven Wonders of the World, two are located in Turkey. The first is the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, which is considered one of the greatest ancient temples in the world. It was dedicated to the worship of Artemis, the goddess of hunting, mercy, and fertility. The temple was surrounded by massive columns and exquisite artistic decorations. The second is the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, which is an important archaeological site housing an ancient tomb of Queen Halicarnassus. It is renowned for its colossal statues and unique architectural structures. These two sites are famous tourist destinations in Turkey and attract history and ancient culture enthusiasts.
- In Turkey, there is a region called Sivas in the province of Kars in the southwest of the country, where some of the finest breeds of dogs in the world stand out. The Kangal dog, originating from this region, is considered the strongest dog in the world. In ancient history, Turkish shepherds used these dogs to combat predators such as bears and wild boars. These dogs can weigh up to 80 kilograms and reach a height of 80 centimeters, making them valuable guardians for herds. They are renowned for their high strength and speed. They also possess endurance and adaptability to different environments.
- The Ottoman history is an integral part of Turkey’s history, as the Ottoman Empire ruled from Istanbul for over 450 years. To understand the facts related to Ottoman history in Turkey, it is advisable to visit several historical sites scattered throughout Istanbul, including Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. These sites carry within them traces and narratives that reflect the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire and contribute to enriching knowledge about Turkish history and culture.
- The Turkish coast is characterized by the presence of 383 beaches and 21 marinas according to global environmental preservation standards. Turkish beaches rank third globally. Among these beaches, there are 197 beaches in the resort city of Antalya on the Mediterranean coast. Antalya takes pride in having the majority of its beaches awarded the Blue Flag designation, an international recognition given to beaches that demonstrate high quality and adhere to cleanliness and environmental standards. These beaches are an ideal destination for tourism, where visitors can enjoy the sun, sand, and clear blue waters in a charming tropical atmosphere.
- Yogurt is considered one of the most consumed ingredients in Turkey. It is consumed by Turks alongside their main meals and is a key component in Ayran, a widely popular beverage made of yogurt, salt, and water. Many Turks believe that Ayran is the perfect remedy for alcohol hangovers and stomachaches. Yogurt has numerous health benefits as it contains high levels of protein, calcium, and beneficial bacteria for the digestive system. It is also considered a suitable option for individuals following a healthy diet and seeking nutrient-rich, low-fat food.
- Turkey is the first country in the world to build an underground mosque at a depth of 7 meters below the ground surface. The Sancaklar Mosque is located in Istanbul and has received the first place among religious sites worldwide in an international architectural competition. The mosque stands out with its unique and innovative design that combines traditional and modern elements. The Sancaklar Mosque is a prominent architectural landmark that attracts visitors from around the world to admire its aesthetic design and enchanting spirituality.