Turkey is a transcontinental country, meaning it spans across two continents: Europe and Asia.
A Unique Geographical Position
- Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, is located on the Bosphorus Strait, a natural waterway that separates Europe and Asia.
- The Marmara Sea lies to the west of Istanbul, separating Thrace (European Turkey) from Anatolia (Asian Turkey).
- The Anatolian Peninsula, where the majority of Turkey lies, is located in Asia Minor.
- However, a small portion of Turkey, known as Thrace, is situated on the Balkan Peninsula in Europe.
A Blend of Cultures
Turkey's unique geographical position has influenced its culture, which is a blend of both European and Asian traditions.
- Turkish cuisine, for instance, draws inspiration from both regions, offering a wide variety of dishes ranging from kebabs and baklava to börek and menemen.
- Turkish music also reflects this cultural fusion, incorporating elements of both classical Turkish music and folk music from both continents.
Therefore, Turkey's position as a bridge between Europe and Asia makes it a fascinating and diverse country with a rich history and culture.
