Turkey has a vast and rich history that comprises various civilizations, empires, religions, and cultures. Though its one of the top 10 tourist destinations in the world, there are some unknown facts about Turkey that travelers are not aware of.
Turkey once served as a home to several empires including the Roman, Byzantine, Greek, Selcuk, and Ottoman Empires. Each of them left its mark whether it’s the culture, cuisines, or heritage.
Apart from this, Turkey was also a birthplace of numerous historical figures including inventors, scholars, ancient rulers, and scientists.
If you are a history buff and want to learn more about the country’s past then do have look at the below list of these 20 unknown and amazing Facts about Turkey.
20 Unknown Facts About Turkey That Will Surely Amaze You
1. Turkey Is A Home To World’s First Church
The Saint Peter’s Cave Church is the world’s oldest church that was established around 2,000 years ago. It lies in Antioch city near Antakya-Reyhanli road.
Though there is no confirmation about the exact date when it was constructed. Most of the information is based on assumptions and rumors.
Talking about Saint Peter, he was the disciple of Jesus Christ and was the brother of another disciple “St. Andrew”.
According to historians, the first Christian community gathered here with a motive to spread Christianity across the world.
Also Read: 10 Most Iconic Historical Sites In Turkey
2. It Is Illegal To Wear Fez In Turkey
Fez
Whenever someone mentions Turkey, the first thing that we think about is in fact the Fez Hat. Fez hat was invented in Fez City, Morroco.
Sultan Mahmud II introduced Fez in 1827 as a modern headdress for the Turkish Army. It became common among locals and served as the symbol of the Ottoman Empire for years.
Mustafa Kemal officially banned this hat in 1925 as it symbolized the Ottoman empire. He wanted to separate religion from the state and later succeeded in establishing a Secular Turkey.
This is one of the most shocking facts about Turkey, which very few people are aware of.
3. A 2000 Years Old Camel Wrestling Is Held Every Year In Turkey
The Camel Wrestling is one of the most significant events that is conducted every year. The event welcomes near about 20,000 spectators and lasts till the weekend.
This event represents the culture of Yoruks, ancient Turkish nomads for whom camels were essential during journeys.
Also Read: 10 Most Incredible Things To Do In Cappadocia | Visiting Central Anatolia Turkey
4. Turkey Is A Birthplace Of Santa Claus
The legendary figure “Santa Clause” is a traditional patron during the Christmas in United States, Britain, and other countries.
According to legends, there was Saint named St. Nicholas who lived in Myra, Turkye in the early 4th century. He used to donate goods and money to those in need.
There are several myths and stories behind how he became Santa Claus. The most famous one was the story of a poor man who wanted to wed his daughter but couldn’t collect enough money for a dowry.
As soon Nicholas heard it, he secretly dropped his bag full of gold down in his house through the chimney. He repeated the same thing with his other daughters.
Since then whenever someone receives a gift secretly they assume it is from Nicholas.
5. It Is The Birthplace Of Many Notable Historical Figures
Turkey is the birthplace of various historical figures including the Apostle who was born in Tarsus, and the popular greek historian “Herodotus”. Also, the founder of the Ottoman Empire “Osman Ghazi” was born in Turkey’s Sogut province.
Other Historical Figures Who Were Born In Turkey:
- Scholar Ibn Taymiyyah in Harran
- Emperor Justinian II in Constantinople (Now Istanbul)
- Roman Emperor Julian in Constantinople
- Saint Barbara in Nicomedia
- Nesreddin Hoca in Sivrihisar
- Byzantine Emperor Heraclius in Cappadocia
- Emperor Alexios, I Komneneos in Constantinople
- Pontus King Mithridates VI in Sinop
6. The Country Has World’s Second Oldest Underground Railway
Turkey has the world’s second oldest subway. Also, it is the shortest subway that spans up to 571 meters including only two stations. It was opened in 1875 to connect Pera and Galata neighborhoods.
7. Tulip Is Turkey’s National Flower
Most people assume the Netherlands as a home to Tulips, but the flower originated in Turkey. These flowers were brought from the wild and became highlights of Ottoman gardens.
In the 16th century, Turkey gave these flowers to the Netherlands and today they are cultivated in a huge number across the country.
8. Agricultural Activities Started In Turkey
The earliest signs of cultivation are no older than 12,000 years. These signs were found in the region that includes Iran, Israel, Jordan, and southern Turkey.
According to some archaeological research, the first cultivation occurred around 10,000 years in Turkey’s Anatolia province.
9. Istanbul Is Divided Into Two Continents
Istanbul is the world’s only city that is divided into two continents. Its 97% land lies in Asia and the remaining 3% is in Europe. The beautiful city is home to various attractions including malls, markets, and historical and religious sites.
Also Read: 10 Most Beautiful Cities To Visit In Turkey
10. Turkey Exports 75% Of Hazelnut Across The World
Turkey is among the fewer countries that have favorable weather conditions for growing hazelnut. At present, it exports a total of 75% hazelnut across the world.
The other countries that produce hazelnut include Itlay, Spain, the United States, and Greece.
11. Grand Bazaar Is Among The World’s Oldest And Largest Markets
Istanbul’s Grand bazaar is the world’s largest as well as the oldest market. It covers a massive area of 54.743 square meters.
The market was established in the 15th century and today it houses more than 4,000 shops. Mehmet II commissioned this Bazaar in 1453, soon after the conquest of Constantinople.
12. Oil Wrestling Is Turkey’s National Sport
Oil wrestling is Turkey’s oldest sport and it is conducted every year since 1346. Also referred to as yagli gures, this incredible sport involves young male wrestlers to trained professionals.
13. Chicken Is Served As A Dessert
Yes, you heard it right, Turkey has a dessert that contains chicken breast. Though it may be weird to many people but this chicken pudding is one of the most delicious Turkish foods.
14. Turks Introduced Coffee To Europe
Turkey has a major role in introducing coffee to other European countries. Moreover, Turkey is responsible for the traditional brewing method which we still use.
It became a beverage in 1258 when Sheikh Hassan Sazeli boiled coffee beans while on a journey to Mecca.
Also Read: Discover The Best Coffee Culture Around The World Here !!!
15. There Are 82,000 Mosques Across The Country
One of the most amazing facts about Turkey is that it houses more the 82,000 mosques. Each mosque in Turkey comprises unique features whether it is the ceiling, mimber, floor, or exterior.
Not only this, Istanbul alone has near about 3,000 mosques. Most of these mosques are either constructed during the reign of Mehmed II or are converted from a church.
16. Home To 60+ World Heritage Sites
There are more than 60 World Heritage sites in Turkey including 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The list includes mosques, cathedrals, ruins, castles, and natural settings.
Some Popular World Heritage Sites of Turkey:
- Ephesus, Aegean
- Topkapi Palace
- Hagia Sophia
- Constantinople Walls
- Nemrut Dag
- Pergamum City
- Goreme National Park
17. 130+ Mountain Ranges In Turkey Are 10,000+ Feet High
Turkey has more than 130 mountains that are higher than 10,000 feet. The highest peak is the Palandoken mountain range in the east Erzurum province. It has around 10,200 feet high above sea level.
Other High Mountain Ranges In Turkey:
- Mount Nemrut – 7,001 meters
- Mount Ararat – 5,137 meters
- Mount Suphan – 4,058 meters
- Mount Erciyes – 3,917 meters
- Mount Hasan – 3,268 meters
Also Read: 11 most recommended and amazing things to do in Turkey
18. It Has Several Christian Monuments Dating Back To 1700+ years
Even being a Muslim majority country with nearly 99% Muslim, Turkey is home to several monuments that are significant to Christians.
Currently, there are 349 churches in Turkey including 52 Armenian, 140 Greek, and 58 Assyrian. Most of these churches are 1,500 to 1,700 years old.
19. Country With Largest Young Population In Europe
Though the youth population in Turkey declined since 2007, it still comprises over 15% young population. Currently, Turkey is the youngest country in Europe.
A total of 12.8 million people in Turkey come into the youth category. The southeastern has the highest young population while the coastal areas have the lowest.
Also Read: 11 Best Beach Resorts in Turkey to amaze you!
20. Hittites Was The First Civilisation In Turkey
Hittites are believed to be the first civilizations that put their settlement in Anatolia(Now in Turkey). The Hittites community exists around 2,000 years ago according to some archaeological research.
They lived between 1600 to 1200 BC and they first entered Anatolia’s Cappodocia in 1800 BC. They choose to settle here as they could not find a better place to live.