Turkey History, Language and Culture
History of Turkey
Turkey's history stretches back thousands of years and reflects the rise and fall of some of the world's most influential civilisations. Anatolia was home to ancient peoples such as the Hittites, Phrygians, Lycians and Urartians before becoming part of the Greek and later Roman worlds. The region flourished under the Byzantine Empire, centred on Constantinople, which stood as a major centre of Christianity, learning and trade for more than a millennium.
In the 11th century, the arrival of the Seljuks marked the beginning of Turkish influence in Anatolia, followed by the rise of the Ottoman Empire, which expanded across Europe, Asia and North Africa. For centuries, the Ottomans shaped the politics, architecture and culture of the region, with Istanbul emerging as a global capital. After the empire’s collapse following the First World War, the Republic of Turkey was founded in 1923 under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, whose reforms modernised the state and firmly established its secular identity.
Modern Turkey is shaped by this long, layered past. Ancient ruins, Roman theatres, Byzantine churches, Seljuk caravanserais and Ottoman mosques sit side by side, illustrating the country's rich cultural heritage and its role as a bridge between continents.
Did you know?
• Istanbul is the only major city in the world that straddles two continents — Europe and Asia.
• Turkey is home to two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus in Bodrum.
• The world's first known peace treaty, the Treaty of Kadesh (c. 1259 BCE), was signed by the Hittites in Anatolia.
Turkey Culture
Religion in Turkey
The majority of the population is Muslim, predominantly Sunni, with smaller communities of Alevi Muslims. Non-Muslim communities are also present, including Christians, Jews and members of other faiths, particularly in larger cities such as Istanbul and İzmir.
Social Conventions in Turkey
Turkish culture places strong emphasis on politeness, hospitality and personal relationships. Greetings are usually warm and accompanied by a handshake, while family and friends may greet with a kiss on both cheeks. Using titles such as "Mr." or "Mrs." followed by a first name is polite until invited to be more informal.
Hospitality is an important part of daily life. Visitors may be offered tea or coffee in homes, shops or workplaces, and accepting even a small amount is considered courteous. Conversations often begin with light social chat before moving on to business or practical matters.
Dress is generally modest, especially in rural areas. Women are not required to wear a headscarf in public, and most do not, especially in cities. However, a headscarf is required when entering certain mosques or religious sites, and scarves are often provided at the entrance. Shoulders and knees should also be covered in these settings, and shoes removed before entering prayer areas.
Tipping in restaurants is customary, usually around 10% for good service. In cafés and casual eateries, leaving small change is appreciated. Photography is generally welcomed outdoors, but it is polite to ask before photographing people, particularly in rural areas or religious environments.
Although Turkey is a secular state, respect for religious practices is important, especially during Ramadan. Eating or drinking openly in very conservative neighbourhoods during fasting hours may feel insensitive, though tourist areas remain relaxed. Public discussions about religion or politics are best approached with caution, as these subjects can be sensitive.
Language in Turkey
The official language of Turkey is Turkish, a member of the Turkic language family. It is written in the Latin alphabet and is spoken throughout the country.
English is increasingly spoken in major cities, tourist destinations and by those working in hospitality, though proficiency varies.
Turkey is also home to several minority languages. Kurdish is the most widely spoken minority language, particularly in the southeast.
