30 Interesting and Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About Turkey

Turkey, a country rich in history and culture, lies at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. This unique geographical position has provided it with a diverse heritage that reflects both continents. From its ancient ruins dating back to Roman and Ottoman times to its lively traditions and mouthwatering cuisine, Turkey is a land full of surprises. This article uncovers some interesting and lesser-known fun facts about Turkey that will tickle your curiosity. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this fascinating country and get to know the fun and interesting facts that make Turkey a truly unique country!

1. Istanbul Lies on Two Continents

Istanbul holds the title of Turkey’s most populous city and ranks fifth globally in population size. Although mostly identified with Europe, it is the world’s only city stretching across two continents.

2. Turkey Ranks Among the Top 10 Global Crop Producers

Agriculture plays a vital role in Turkey’s economic landscape, positioning the country among the top 10 global producers of crops. Key agricultural products include wheat, sugar beets, milk, poultry, and cotton, as well as a variety of vegetables and fruits. 

Turkey also leads the world in producing hazelnuts, apricots, and oregano.

3. Istanbul Airport Links to Over 350 International Destinations

Istanbul Airport facilitates travel to upwards of 350 destinations worldwide, emerging as a modern hub in the aviation sector. The strategic geographical positioning of Turkey, near the global center, further enhances its accessibility, making air travel to numerous destinations quite easy!

4. The Grand Bazaar Is One of the Oldest Shopping Malls

Turkey is home to one of the oldest and largest covered shopping malls in the world. The Kapalı Çarşı, referred to as Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, draws over 91 million visitors each year. Therefore, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar holds a significant place in the history of retail and commerce.

5. Turkey Ranks Fourth in Most Visited Countries in the World in 2022

In 2022, Turkey welcomed approximately 44.6 million international travelers, making it the fourth most frequented tourist destination around the world. Tourists visit for the nation’s rich culinary traditions and vibrant culture, as well as its natural beauty. Furthermore, the southern regions enjoy a Mediterranean climate, offering up to six months of summer, which creates a favorable environment for tourism.

6. İztuzu Beach Is a Crucial Haven for Endangered Loggerhead Sea Turtles

Also known as Turtle Beach, İztuzu Beach in Turkey serves as a vital breeding territory for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles. These endangered creatures generally frequent the beach between May and October for mating and egg-laying purposes. Also, each year, Turtle Beach sees over 300 nests dug!

7. Noah’s Ark Landed at Mount Ararat

According to tradition, Mount Ararat was the landing site of the biblical Noah’s Ark. Many also consider the mountain sacred for the very same reason. Beyond its biblical association, Mount Ararat hosts a variety of indigenous animals and plants.

8. Over 70 Languages Are Spoken in Turkey

The majority of Turkey’s population, 90 percent to be precise, communicate in Turkish as their primary language. In addition to Turkish, there’s a rich linguistic variety with about 70 other languages and dialects spoken across the country. 

This includes languages like Kurdish and Caucasian, as well as languages like Greek, Arabic, Armenian, and Ladino.

9. Two of the Ancient World’s Seven Wonders Were in Turkey

Turkey is home to two notable sites from the list of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Located in Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis is a legacy of Ancient Greek civilization dedicated to the revered goddess Artemis.

Another historical marvel is the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, constructed between 353 and 350 BC, showcasing the architectural beauty of the past.

10. Oil Wrestling, or Yagli Gures, Is Turkey’s National Sport

Often referred to as grease wrestling, oil wrestling holds the distinction of being Turkey’s national sport. True to its name, this sport involves two competitors wrestling each other, coated in olive oil. A unique aspect of oil wrestling is that victory can be achieved by securing a strong grip on the loose leather trousers worn by the opponents, deviating from traditional wrestling norms.

11. Transition From Turkey to Türkiye Is Underway

The initiative to alter the internationally acknowledged official name of Turkey to Türkiye has been set in motion. In 2022, the United Nations approved the change to ‘Türkiye’ following a memorandum issued by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who also encouraged the public to use ‘Türkiye’ across all languages when referring to the country.

12. Ankara Is the Capital City of Turkey, Not Istanbul

Owing to its prominence among the world’s top 10 cities, Istanbul is often mistaken to be the capital of Turkey. However, the actual capital of the country is Ankara.

13. Turkey Is Home to the World’s First Temple

The remnants discovered at Göbekli Tepe represent the world’s earliest known temple, marking it as one of the most important archaeological finds. Through carbon dating techniques, it has been established that around 45 stones at the site date back to a staggering 12,000 years ago.

14. Salting Is One of the Customs to Protect Babies in Turkey

Salting is a unique Turkish tradition aimed at safeguarding newborn babies. This practice involves rubbing salt over the baby’s entire body, with the perception that it will enhance the baby’s ability to ward off harmful elements.

15. Tulips Hold the Honor of Being Turkey’s National Flowers

The Turks brought tulips to Europe in the 17th century. Given their native roots in Turkey, it’s fitting that tulips are recognized as the national flower of the country. The name “tulip” comes from the Turkish word ‘tülbend,’ which translates to muslin or gauze.

16. The Gray Wolf Is Turkey’s National Animal

Holding a significant place in the heritage of all Turkic and Mongolian tribes is the gray wolf. It symbolizes war, the spirit of combat, freedom, swiftness, and the natural world. As per the prevailing beliefs, during times of peril or threat to the Turkish nation, the wolf is said to emerge and provide guidance.

17. Turkey Leads the Global Production of Hazelnuts

Turkey is the largest producer of hazelnuts worldwide, contributing a whopping 70% of the total hazelnuts available in the global market, which equates to a substantial $2.8 billion sector. Specifically, Trabzon, a region in Turkey, is responsible for growing more than 44% of the nation’s entire hazelnut yield.

18. Turkey Tops the List with the Highest Number of Mosques Worldwide

Turkey boasts a total of 82,693 mosques, with the highest concentration found in its largest city, Istanbul, as per the data from the Religious Affairs Directorate. This places Turkey as the leading country in terms of mosques per capita globally. Conversely, the entire United States has around 2,000 mosques.

19. Turkey Is the World’s Largest Consumer of Tea Per Capita

A typical Turk enjoys between 5 to 10 cups of tea daily. The nation leads globally in per-capita tea consumption, with an average individual consuming around 7 pounds of tea annually. An impressive 96% of the population drinks tea every day.

20. Turkey Ranks Third in Global Tomato Production

Following China and India, Turkey claims the spot as the world’s third-largest producer of tomatoes. A notable 30% of Turkey’s tomato harvest is utilized for making tomato paste, ketchup, juice, diced tomatoes, and puree.

21. The Evil Eye Is the Most Popular Souvenir in Turkey

Known locally as nazar boncugu, this amulet is believed to ward off evil spirits, according to age-old Turkish traditions. Tracing back to 3,000 years ago, evidence of this amulet has been discovered in numerous areas formerly part of the Ottoman Empire.

22. The Unique Sport of Camel Wrestling Takes Place in Turkey

Camel wrestling is a distinctive sport where two male Tulu camels compete, usually triggered by the presence of a female camel in heat paraded before them. This sport finds its popularity mainly in the Aegean region of Turkey.

23. Turkey Ranks Third Globally in Blue Flag Beaches

With environmental investments paving the way for more Blue Flag certifications each year, Turkey’s count of Blue Flag beaches soared to 551 in 2023. This achievement positions Turkey as the third leading country worldwide for its number of Blue Flag beaches, showcasing its commitment to maintaining clean and pristine shores.

24. A Third of Turkey’s Plant Species Are Endemic to the Country

Turkey is a botanical treasure with more than 9,000 plant species, and a notable one-third of these are endemic, flourishing solely within its borders. Additionally, Turkey harbors five distinct mammal species, 13 unique reptile species, and 52 freshwater fish species, enriching its exclusive biodiversity, as these species do not exist elsewhere on the globe.

25. Turkish People Consider Number 40 to Be the Luckiest

In several cultural and religious contexts, the number 40 is auspicious, and for the Turkish people, it’s also a lucky number. They say that repeating a particular act or phrase 40 times could make it come true.

This belief has roots in historical religious events, as Prophet Mohammad was 40 years old when he received the Quran, and Jesus is said to have roamed the desert for 40 days.

26. Turkey Is the Birthplace of Santa Claus

Saint Nicholas, recognized globally as Santa Claus, was born in the ancient city of Patara, a prominent city along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. His birth took place around 300 AD, a flourishing period for Patara when a wealthy wheat merchant welcomed a son and named him Nicholas.

27. Almost Every Meal Comes with Bread in Turkey

Every meal in Turkey includes ekmek, which is fresh bread. It is a longstanding tradition to use this bread to soak up the flavorful oils and juices from your dish. Turkish people value bread greatly, as they believe it to be essential for sustaining life. Consequently, they make sure not to waste it and relish its presence at every meal.

28. Turkish Black Sea Coastline Is Around 1,600 Kilometers Long

Turkey boasts an expansive Black Sea coastline that spans over 1,600 kilometers, with a total coastline of 8,000. This extensive coastline offers everyone the opportunity to experience a remarkable coastal vacation. Along this Black Sea coastline, you’ll discover stunning beaches, resorts, as well as numerous attractions to ensure your stay is unforgettable.

29. Turkish People Introduced Kebabs to the World

Internationally, the döner kebab stands as one of the most renowned, but within Turkey, a multitude of kebab varieties exists. The birthplace of kebabs, Turkey continues to excel in their preparation, making them the true masters of this delectable cuisine.

30. Tünel Is the Second Oldest Underground Railway in the World

On January 17, 1875, Tünel’s underground railway system commenced operations, marking its place as the world’s second underground railway, following the London Underground. To this day, Tünel operates between Beyoğlu and Karaköy, standing as one of continental Europe’s longest surviving rail lines.

Summary of Interesting and Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About Turkey

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