Turkey

Turkey - History - Religion - Currency - Cuisine - Shopping 

HISTORY

The earliest records of the Turkish people show that their ancestors in Central Asia date back some time before 2000 B.C.

Some Turks travelled south-west to Anatolia (Asia Minor) considered to be the cradle of civilisation, because it embraced more than 20 cultures and civilisations.

These included: The Hitites, Assyrians, Lydians, Greeks, Persians, Macedonians, Ionians, Romans , Byzantines and Turks .

The Seljuck Empire was the first Turkish Empire in Anatolia. After the Seljucks' influence declined, Anatolia fragmented into a number of small states. The Ottoman Turks joined together these seperate units, and eventually became the largest empire in recent history, the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans ruled for more than six centuries (1281-1922).

The golden age of the Ottoman Empire was ruled by Sultan Suleyman 1 (Suleyman the Magnificent). He became governor of a province in Northwest Anatolia at the age of 15. Under his rule the size of the empire more than doubled and was transformed into a fully fledged world empire. Suleyman was a poet and supported painters, architects, metal workers, weavers and ceramists and he helped with the cultural legacy that has lasted for centuries.

Mustafa Kemal (Ataturk-father of the Turks) was a highly respected army general in World war 1, he led the Turkish people in their war of Independence (1919 -1922) against the allied occupiers. Under his leadership, the country adopted wide ranging social, legal and political reforms. You will  see photographs of Ataturk in shops and homes - the founder of Modern Turkey

ABOUT TURKEY

Turkey is a spectacular country surrounded by sea on three sides, with more than 300 natural and 130 artificial lakes. Almost 35%of its land is covered by forests and mountains.Turkey is located in a strategic position, where the three continents of the old world (Asia ,Africa and Europe) are closest to each other and where Asia and Europe meet.

Population is approx 72 million - major cities are istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Adana, Antalya and Bursa.

RELIGION

Turkey is 99% Muslim - but it is a secular state that guarantees complete freedom of worship to non Muslims. In Belek, you can find a Mosque, Synagogue and Church on the same site!

CURRENCY

The currency used in Turkey is the New Turkish Lira or Yeni-lira - YTL - although Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted.

You can exchange currency at Banks and Exchange offices.

CUISINE

It is said that there are three types of cuisine in the world - Chinese, French and Turkish. Visitors are often pleasantly surprised by the range and quality of food available. Choose from Kebap to Kofte and so much more...

Try eating with the locals - where you will find terrific quality and value for money.

SHOPPING

Turkey has a wide range of shops selling everything from jewellery to hand made carpets. There are great deals to be found in any of the traditional Turkish Markets, these generally sell hand made products plus local arts and craft. Clothes are beautifully tailored and made with the greatest care -a must if you like to wear unique clothing.

In Turkey you are able to buy special handicrafts which vary from one region to another. Authentic bazaars, rugs and kilim workshops are beside other traditional handicraft centers and offer pleasant shopping.

World famous Turkish rugs and kilims are incomparable in respect of quality and beauty. You will certainly have fun when selecting and buying different rugs woven with various styles in different parts of Turkey. Turkish leather and textile products reflect the latest fashions. Large shopping malls are now becoming commonplace, with great bargains to be had. 

The origins of jewelry go back to the neolithic age in Turkey. Several designs have been created combining the ancient styles with those of the future. Silver and gold jewelry with precious stones are most popular items of jewellery shopping in Turkey

Shopping is very easy since you can use all major credit cards, if you do not wish to pay cash. Many shopkeepers and other staff in retail shops speak English and they are attentive and willing to show and introduce their goods. Shopping in Turkey is a part of a great vacation.

Prices can usually be agreed on and the ticket price is normally only a guide and with the right amount of negotiation you can normally walk away with an excellent bargain. The shop owners are always friendly and willing to help you if you need any assistance.