10 fun and interesting Turkey facts

1. Troy: Site of Famed Trojan Wars in Turkey

The ancient city of Troy, located in Western Turkey, is renowned for being the site of the famous Trojan Wars. To this day, the iconic Trojan Horse still stands in the region, a reminder of the legendary battle that took place thousands of years ago. The city of Troy is a popular tourist destination, with visitors from all over the world coming to marvel at the ancient ruins and the iconic symbol of the Trojan Horse.

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2. Explore Christianity in Antakya, Cave Church of St Peter

The Cave Church of St Peter in Antakya, Turkey is a remarkable testament to the history of Christianity. Believed to be one of the oldest churches in the world, sections of the church date back to the 4th or 5th century, making it a truly remarkable site. The church is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a unique insight into the history of Christianity and the region.

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3. Turkey's Mount Ararat

Mount Ararat, also known as Agri Dagi, is a mountain located in Eastern Turkey that is steeped in history and legend. It is said to be the place where Noah's Ark landed after the great flood, making it a sacred site for many religions. The mountain is 5,137 meters tall and is the highest peak in the region, providing stunning views of the surrounding area. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and is a symbol of national pride for the people of Turkey.

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4. Istanbul - The Most Unique City in the World

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is a truly unique metropolis. Located on the Bosphorus Strait, it is the only city in the world that is situated on two continents - Europe and Asia. This strategic location has made Istanbul a major cultural, economic, and political hub for centuries, and it continues to be a vibrant and exciting city today.

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5. The World's Oldest Tin Mine Is Located in Goltepe

Goltepe, located 60 miles south of Tarsus, is home to the world's oldest tin mine. This ancient mine is estimated to be over 4,000 years old, and is a testament to the rich history of the region. The mine is still in operation today, and is a major source of tin for the country of Turkey. It is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore the mine and learn about its fascinating history.

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6. The world's first Neolithic paintings discovered in Turkey

The ancient city of Catalhovuk in Turkey is renowned for being the site of the world's first Neolithic paintings, discovered on the walls of man-made structures. These paintings, which date back to around 8,000 BC, are believed to be the earliest known examples of figurative art, and provide a fascinating insight into the lives of the people who lived in the area during this period. The paintings depict a variety of scenes, including hunting, fishing, and religious ceremonies, and are a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the Neolithic people.

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7. World's Oldest Shipwreck Found in Turkey

The ancient city of Uluburun, located near Kas in Turkey's Mediterranean region, is home to the world's oldest known shipwreck. Discovered in 1982, the wreck is estimated to be over 3,300 years old and is believed to have been a merchant vessel carrying a cargo of copper, tin, and other precious metals. The discovery of the wreck has provided archaeologists with invaluable insight into the maritime trade of the Late Bronze Age.

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8. Julius Caesar's Famous Words: "Veni, Vidi, Vici"

In 47 BC, Julius Caesar uttered the famous words, “Veni, Vidi, Vici” when he defeated the formidable kingdom of Pontus in the Black Sea region of Turkey. This kingdom was renowned for its strength and power, and was considered to be a major obstacle for the Roman Empire. However, Caesar's decisive victory over Pontus marked a major turning point in the Roman Empire's expansion, and his famous words have since become a symbol of his military prowess.

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9. 472 bird species in Turkey

Turkey is a haven for bird-watchers, boasting an impressive 472 species of birds, 70 of which are accidental or rare. Of these, only four have been introduced to the country by humans, making it a unique destination for bird-lovers to observe a wide variety of species in their natural habitat.

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10. 37th in the world in terms of area - Turkey is an impressive country

Turkey is an impressive country, ranking 37th in the world in terms of area. It is bordered by three distinct seas – the Black Sea to the north, the Aegean Sea to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south – providing a wealth of opportunities for exploration and relaxation. With its varied landscapes, from the snow-capped mountains of the east to the lush green forests of the west, Turkey is a country of immense beauty and diversity.