Turkiye, a bridge between east and the west, has been witness to many important moments in the history of mankind and it has been home to many cultures. Today it is a peaceful bridge between Europe and Asia.

Due to its unique geography, Turkiye has been at the crossroads of trade and migration routes through the ages. The Hittites, Trojans, Urartus, Phrygians, Lydians, Persians, Macedonians, Helens, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks and Ottomans all contributed to the formation of Turkiye’s history, art and culture.

The territory that is Turkiye today is where some of the world’s most magnificent centers of civilization flourished. Among them were Catalhoyuk, Troy, Kultepe and Hattusa. Then came Ephesus, Dydima, Aspendos, Assos, Sardes and Xanthos, and they were succeeded by Gordion, Hierapolis, Halikarnasos and Constantinopolis.

Turkiye stretches over an area totaling 302,535 square miles and it is encircled by the Mediterranean, Black and Aegean Seas, opening up to its neighbors and the rest of the world through these waters.

The ideal trip to Turkiye must include Istanbul. Surrounded by seven hills, this spectacular city offers architectural gems, museums, historic churches and mosques (the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sofia Church among them) and lots of shopping for authentic arts and crafts.

Turkish food, which is considered one of the three major cuisines of the world, is another big attraction for visitors...

[You can read the rest of the article about the history of The Republic of Turkiye on the information Panels in Festival.]