Turkey is known for its ancient but rich culture, breathtaking architecture and some of the most delicious cuisines.
Tourists also love this country for its fairy chimneys, the famous hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia as well as the turquoise water of the Blue Lagoon.
Intriguing enough? I’ve rounded up 12 fun facts to help you discover epic experiences across the country
1. Turkey Is The Sixth Most Visited Country In The World
Turkey is the most visited Muslim country on earth, with 13 UNESCO World Heritage sites and a fair share of the world’s 7 wonders.
One is Artemis at Ephesus, which is considered an architectural gem. Another is Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
2. The Hazelnut In Your Ferrero Rocher Comes From Turkey
Turkey is the largest producer and exporter of hazelnut in the world. The Mediterranean climate aids in the best-grown hazelnuts in the world.
Turkey produces almost 70% of the world’s share. Along with hazelnuts, many other spices and cherries are being highly produced in this nation.
3. It’s Home To So Many Mosques
The Republic of Turkey has the highest number of per capita mosques, with over 80,000 mosques and counting. Each gives a glimpse of magnificent architecture and significant cultural history.
Blue Mosque is one of the most famous mosques you recognize. Also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, it is an architectural specimen of the Ottoman era.
Another famous mosque turned museum in 1934 is the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.
4. Tulips Came From Turkey And Not The Netherlands
Yes, these large bright-colored bulbs had first bloomed in Turkey.
Many think tulips are native to The Netherlands, but it was during the Ottoman empire that tulips originated and were later taken by Dutch explorers to Amsterdam.
If visiting during spring, you can enjoy the Tulip Festival in Constantinople which is modern-day Istanbul.
5. The Grand Bazaar Is The World’s Oldest Market
Istanbul has the oldest running market in the world. With over 60,000 shops, this large market hosts millions of tourists annually.
Bargain with vendors in this Bazaar of Turkey will give you a good taste of Turkish culture.
6. Istanbul- Connecting And Dividing Two Continents!
Whatever you say, either separating or bridging, Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans Europe and Asia. The Galata bridge over the Bosphorus strait links the two.
You can literally walk from one continent to other in the largest city of Turkey.
7. Europeans Can Thank Turkey For Coffee
Turkish people love their coffee and European travelers introduced coffee to Europe. This beloved beverage was made during the Ottoman reign using mortar.
8. Cotton Castle Is In Turkey
No, it is not made of cotton but named because it looks so.
This UNESCO World Heritage site, known as Pamukkale, is a pure white serene scenery of hot springs. It has carbonated water pools surrounded by calcium deposits.
Many love this natural spa destination and it’s hugely popular on Instagram.
9. Santa Claus Is From Turkey, But Turkish People Don’t Celebrate Christmas
Do you think Santa Claus comes dashing through the snow on a sleigh? It might be true, but St.Nicholas, the inspiration behind the Santa Claus tales, was born in Patara in 270 AD.
He was a generous saint helping the needy and poor from where the Christmas gifting practice started. Turkey also has one of the oldest Christian Churches in the world.
Even after this, Turks do not celebrate Christmas because it is a Muslim country.
10. How Much Is Too Much Tea?
As I mentioned, Turkish people love their coffee but are crazy about tea. Turkey ranks highest in the world in consuming tea. Admit it: You thought it was China.
Almost 95% of Turkish people drink tea daily. They not only consume but are also one of the highest tea producers in the world, with many different flavors they served across the country.
11. Sea Turtles Have Reserved Nesting Areas
Endangered sea turtles are found in Iztuzu Beach, Turkey. The Turkish government has tried to conserve these reptiles from excessive tourism by reserving nesting areas.
From May till October, these turtles come out to lay eggs.
12. Oil Wrestling Is A National Sport In Turkey
Oil wrestling is an annual traditional festival held in Turkey. Two strong grown men wrestle with oil on their bodies to ensure fairness of the game tactics. This game is officially their national sport.