Turkey
Turkey is a country with a long and storied history. The successor to the Ottoman Empire, Turkey occupies the greater Anatolian peninsula, an area that has been continuously inhabited since ancient times. Because of its location and role in history, Turkey has been influenced by many cultures including the Greek, Roman, and Ottoman Empires, and has seen important events such as the Trojan War (ca. 1200 BCE), the invasion of Alexander the Great (334 BCE), and the defeat of the Mongols by the Seljuk armies in 1243.
Each event and culture has left its unique stamp on the landscape of Turkey, whether it is the Byzantine or Ottoman architectural styles, the strong religious influence (most notably, Islam and Christianity), the inspiration of Arabic and Persian literature on Turkish writers, and more.
Turkey’s diverse make up and strong historical roots are only part of what attracts more than 31 million tourists to the country each year. Additionally, the climate and landscape provide residents and visitors alike with a varied environment ranging from pleasant coastal areas to mountainous regions.
The country’s largest city, Istanbul, is a favorite among visitors to the area. Once known as Constantinople during the reign of Roman Emperor Constantine I, the city is a reflection of all the varied cultures, religions, and influences of Turkey, in one place.