Top 20 Amazing Facts About Turkey – History, Culture & Fun Trivia

Did you know that Turkey is home to both the world’s first church and the real-life Santa Claus? A land where Asia meets Europe, ancient traditions blend with modern marvels, and every region holds a hidden gem, Turkey offers far more than sun-kissed beaches and bustling bazaars.

From seismic wonders and ancient cities to its deep tea culture and culinary quirks, this guide uncovers 20 amazing facts about Turkey, which is complex as well as captivating. Whether you are a curious traveller or a history buff, there’s something here that will surprise you.

Table of Content

1. Turkey is a Part of Europe and Asia
2. Home to the World’s Oldest Christian Church
3. Birthplace of Santa Claus
4. The Grand Bazaar Is One of the Oldest and Largest Markets
5. Turkish People Love Drinking Tea
6. Lake Salda Looks Like the Maldives
7. Istanbul Has Had Many Names in History
8. Turks Eat More Bread Than Most Countries
9. Turkey Is One of the World’s Most Earthquake-Prone Countries
10.It’s a Top Grape Producer in the World
11. Troy Was a Real City in Turkey
12. World’s First Known Human Settlement
13. Ankara, Not Istanbul, Is the Capital
14. Tulips Originally Came From Turkey
15. Turkish Baths Are More Than a Spa
16. Mount Ararat Is Linked to Noah’s Ark
17. The Evil Eye Is a Common Turkish Belief
18. Cappadocia Is Known for Its Fairy Chimneys
19. Wrestling is the National Sport of Turkey
20. Turkey Has Ancient Underground Cities Like Derinkuyu
FAQs

1. Turkey is a Part of Europe and Asia

Turkey is a Part of Europe and Asia

Turkey is uniquely located on two continents, Asia and Europe, making it a cultural and geographical bridge between East and West. The Bosphorus Strait, a narrow waterway in Istanbul, divides the Asian and European sides. This positioning has influenced Turkey’s rich blend of traditions, food, and architecture.

Location: Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul, Turkey
Timings: Open 24/7; best experienced during sunrise or sunset boat rides
Ticket: Public access is free; guided ferry tours cost around 50-150 TRY

2. Home to the World’s Oldest Christian Church

Grotto of St. Peter in Antakya

The Grotto of St. Peter in Antakya (ancient Antioch) is believed to be the first Christian church in the world. This cave-church was carved into the mountainside and used by early Christians around the 1st century AD. Recognized by the Vatican, it is a pilgrimage site for believers and history lovers.

Location: St. Pierre Church, Antakya, Hatay Province, Turkey
Timings: Daily from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ticket: Approx. 30 TRY per adult; free for students

3. Birthplace of Santa Claus

Santa Claus

St. Nicholas, who inspired the modern-day Santa Claus, was born in the ancient city of Patara around 270 AD. He later became the Bishop of Myra (Demre), where he was known for his secret gift-giving. Today, you can visit his church, tomb, and statue in Demre, a major religious and cultural site.

Location: Demre, Antalya Province, Turkey
Timings: Open daily from 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM (summer); closes earlier in winter
Ticket: Entry to St. Nicholas Church costs around 90 TRY

4. The Grand Bazaar Is One of the Oldest and Largest Markets

Grand Bazaar

Established in the 15th century, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops across 61 streets, it offers everything from spices and carpets to jewellery and souvenirs. The bazaar attracts up to 400,000 visitors daily.

Location: Beyazıt, Fatih District, Istanbul, Turkey

Timings: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; closed Sundays

Ticket: Free entry; prices vary by vendor, and bargaining is common

Suggested Read: Turkey Visa Extension for Indians

5. Turkish People Love Drinking Tea

Turkish Tea

Tea (çay) is deeply rooted in Turkish daily life. Served in tulip-shaped glasses, it symbolizes hospitality and is offered at homes, offices, and even shops. Rize, on the Black Sea coast, is the country’s tea capital. On average, a Turkish person drinks 3-5 cups of tea daily.

Location: Nationwide, especially in tea gardens in Rize and Istanbul
Timings: All day; most commonly enjoyed in mornings and afternoons
Ticket: Prices range from 5 – 20 TRY in cafes; free in many homes and shops

6. Lake Salda Looks Like the Maldives

Lake Salda

Lake Salda, with its striking white shores and crystal-clear blue waters, is often compared to the Maldives. It is one of Turkey’s deepest (196m) and cleanest lakes. Scientists have even compared its mineral-rich soil to that of Mars. It’s ideal for swimming, photography, and nature escapes.

Location: Yeşilova District, Burdur Province, Turkey
Timings: Open daily; best visited in summer (May to September)
Ticket: Entry is free; some beach facilities may charge 10 – 20 TRY

7. Istanbul Has Had Many Names in History

Istanbul

Istanbul has gone by several names over the centuries: Byzantium in ancient Greek times, Constantinople during the Roman and Byzantine empires, and finally Istanbul since the 15th century. Each name reflects its layered history and strategic importance as a global hub.

Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Timings: The City is accessible year-round; each season offers a unique charm
Ticket: Entry to public areas is free; museums and sites vary in price

8. Turks Eat More Bread Than Most Countries

Bread

Bread is sacred in Turkish culture and a staple in almost every meal. Turks consume more bread per capita than any other nation, about 200 kg per year. Traditional types include simit (sesame rings), pide (flatbread), and lavaş. It’s often served with cheese, olives, or soups.

Location: Nationwide; bakeries and markets in every neighborhood
Timings: Available fresh from early morning till late night
Ticket: Varies; standard loaf costs around 5–10 TRY

9. Turkey Is One of the World’s Most Earthquake-Prone Countries

Turkey sits on several active fault lines, especially the North Anatolian Fault. The country has experienced numerous devastating earthquakes, including the 1999 İzmit quake and the 2023 Kahramanmaraş disaster. Modern architecture now includes seismic precautions due to the high risk.

Location: Northern Turkey, including Istanbul, Düzce, and Erzincan

10.It’s a Top Grape Producer in the World

Grapes

Turkey ranks among the top 10 global producers of grapes. Its winemaking history spans 7,000 years, with ancient vineyards still thriving in areas like Denizli, İzmir, and Cappadocia. While much of the harvest goes into dried fruits and juices, the wine scene is quietly gaining international praise.

Location: Regions like Denizli, Manisa, and İzmir
Timings: Harvest season: August to October; wine tours available year-round
Ticket: Tastings and tours vary by vineyard; typically 100 – 300 TRY

11. Troy Was a Real City in Turkey

The ancient city of Troy, once thought to be just a legend from Homer’s Iliad, is a real archaeological site in modern-day Turkey. Excavations revealed layers of cities dating back 5,000 years. You can see ancient ruins, city walls, and even a replica of the famous wooden horse.

Location: Tevfikiye Village, Çanakkale Province, Turkey
Timings: Open daily from 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (summer); closes at 5:00 PM in winter
Ticket: Approx. 150 TRY per adult; the Troy Museum nearby is separate

Suggested Read: Turkey Visa for UK Citizens

12. World’s First Known Human Settlement

Çatalhöyük, a Neolithic site in central Turkey, is one of the earliest known human settlements, dating back to 7500 BCE. It featured complex urban planning, wall paintings, and a communal lifestyle with rooftop entrances. It offers deep insight into prehistoric life and societal development.

Location: Konya Province, near the town of Çumra
Timings: Daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Ticket: Entry is free; guided tours may charge a small fee

Suggested Read: Turkey Visa for UK Citizens

13. Ankara, Not Istanbul, Is the Capital

Ankara

Though many assume Istanbul is the capital, Turkey’s actual capital is Ankara. It became the capital in 1923 after the founding of the Republic by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Ankara houses the government, embassies, and Atatürk’s mausoleum, Anıtkabir.

Location: Ankara, Central Anatolia, Turkey
Timings: The City is accessible year-round; key sites open daily
Ticket: Most national monuments like Anıtkabir have free entry

14. Tulips Originally Came From Turkey

Tulip

Tulips, often associated with the Netherlands, actually originated in Turkey. They were cultivated by the Ottomans as early as the 10th century and became a symbol of elegance during the Tulip Era (18th century). The Dutch received their first tulip bulbs from the Ottoman Empire.

Location: Emirgan Park & Gülhane Park, Istanbul (especially during Tulip Festival)
Timings: Best visited in April during the annual Istanbul Tulip Festival
Ticket: Free public entry to most parks and festivals

15. Turkish Baths Are More Than a Spa

Hammam

The hammam, or Turkish bath, is a centuries-old tradition of cleansing and relaxation, combining steam, massage, and scrubbing rituals. Popular during the Ottoman era, many historic hammams like Çemberlitaş and Hürrem Sultan still operate today with marble interiors and classic domes.

Location: Major cities like Istanbul, Bursa, and Ankara
Timings: Usually open daily from 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Ticket: Packages start around 300 – 800 TRY, depending on services and location

16. Mount Ararat Is Linked to Noah’s Ark

Mount Ararat

Mount Ararat, Turkey’s highest peak at 5,137 meters, is believed by many to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark.. Though the claim is unverified, the mountain is a sacred site and a challenging climb. The surrounding area is full of local legends and archaeological interest.

Location: Eastern Turkey, Ağrı Province
Timings: Climbing season: June to September; permit required
Ticket: Climbing tours can cost 3,000 – 6,000 TRY, depending on duration and guide

17. The Evil Eye Is a Common Turkish Belief

Nazar Boncuğu

Known as “nazar boncuğu”, the blue-and-white glass evil eye is a powerful symbol in Turkey, believed to ward off bad luck. You’ll find it in homes, cars, shops, jewellery, and baby clothes. It’s one of the most iconic and widely recognised Turkish amulets.

Location: Nationwide; especially common in markets and souvenir shops
Timings: Available year-round; no specific timing
Price: Prices start as low as 5 TRY for keychains and go up for crafted items

18. Cappadocia Is Known for Its Fairy Chimneys

Cappadocia

Cappadocia’s surreal landscape of “fairy chimneys” was formed by volcanic eruptions and erosion over centuries. This rocky region also features cave churches, underground cities, and hot air balloon rides at sunrise, making it one of Turkey’s top tourist spots.

Location: Nevşehir Province, Central Turkey
Timings: Open year-round; balloon rides are best from April to October
Ticket: Balloon rides start at approx. 3,000–5,000 TRY per person

Suggested Read: Is Turkey Safe to Visit? Your Guide

19. Wrestling is the National Sport of Turkey

While football is the most popular game, the national sport of Turkey is oil wrestling (yağlı güreş). It’s a 650-year-old tradition where wrestlers in leather pants cover themselves in olive oil and try to pin opponents. The Kırkpınar festival, held annually in Edirne, is the oldest sanctioned sporting competition in the world.

Location: Kırkpınar Stadium, Edirne, Turkey (annual event)
Timings: Held in late June or early July every year
Ticket: Festival tickets range from 100 – 400 TRY, depending on seating

20. Turkey Has Ancient Underground Cities Like Derinkuyu

Derinkuyu is one of the largest excavated underground cities in the world. It once sheltered up to 20,000 people, including tunnels, kitchens, churches, and ventilation shafts. Built during the Byzantine era to escape invasions, it goes 60 meters deep and is an engineering marvel.

Location: Derinkuyu District, Nevşehir Province, Turkey

Timings: Daily from 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (summer); closes earlier in winter

Ticket: Approx. 200 TRY per adult

Why Choose OneVasco?

FAQs

What is a unique fact about Turkey?

Turkey is the only country that sits on two continents—Asia and Europe—making it a true cultural crossroads.

What is so special about Turkey?

Turkey blends rich history, stunning architecture, natural beauty, and world-famous cuisine, all in one vibrant destination.

What are 5 interesting facts about Turkey?

Istanbul is the only city in the world on two continents.
Santa Claus was born in Turkey.
Turkey introduced coffee to Europe.
It’s home to the world’s oldest temple—Göbekli Tepe.
The Trojan War took place in western Turkey.

What is Turkey best known for?

Turkey is best known for its historic sites like Hagia Sophia, delicious food like kebabs and baklava, and its diverse landscapes from beaches to mountains.

For what reason is Turkey famous?

Some famous facts about Turkey are that it’s part of two continents, has ancient ruins of Troy, Ottoman architecture, bustling bazaars, and warm hospitality.