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Turkey's History
Ancient history begins in Turkey with the area one of the longest settled regions on earth. The first power to rise were the Hittites from 18-13th Centuries BC followed by many Indo-European cultures until Greek colonies were settled from 1200BC on the Aegean coast, while the Persians moved in from the west. By the 1st Century BC all Hellenistic states had been incorporated into the Roman Empire which lasted until 29 May 1453 when the Ottoman Turks finally captured Constantinople, the capital of the Roman Empire (Byzantium) since 330. The mighty and glorious Ottoman Empire made up of Seljuk Turks from Central Asia expanded, reaching its zenith under Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th Century and declining until finally defeated in WWI. In 1923 modern Turkey was born when Mustafa Kemal Atatürk began his liberal and westernised Republic. Turkey stayed out of WWII and during the Cold War sided with the Capitalist West.
Our Pick
Turkey is one of the world’s best serviced ferry destinations, so while here book a short trip to Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria or anywhere, and enjoy a wonderful sea voyage with fresh air. 
Right Now
The Military plays an important role in national life in Turkey, more than just defence. It ensures the country remains secular and sticks to the liberal principles Atatürk began so long ago. Turkey aspires to join the European Union although there are numerous obstacles to overcome first. The economy flourished until 2008 and has now slowed. Turkey is crammed packed full of history, culture, sunbaked beaches, winter and summer sports opportunities and with its proximity to cooler parts of Europe, Turkey has become one of Europe’s most favourite and affordable holiday destinations. Turkish hospitality is legendary and its coffee and cuisine is divine.
