CULTURE AND EVENTS
The Turkish culture is rather diverse, influenced by the Ottoman Empire, European and Islamic traditions and is reflected in different aspects of life. Architecture was quite important with social and religious complex built around the mosques, constructions in wood, fountains as decorative features, stone bridges, clock towers and more. Literature was also under different influences; divan poets were influenced by both Arab and Persian traditions, while the Turkish folk literature reflects the influence of Islam. Later on, the literature assumed some characteristics of the Western tradition, reflected in music as well. Turks showed a great talent in architecture, music, poetry, textiles, wood, ceramics, glass making, jewelry and other arts.
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first president of the Republic of Turkey, was given the credit for the creation of their cultural identity. Since art was of a great importance, many resources were invested in architecture, painting and sculpture, which resulted in a number of museums, a variety of artistic activities, growing of the film industry, book and magazine publication. It was a period of fine arts; classical music, ballet, opera, theaters. Many writers, musicians, painters and architects have gained a significant reputation throughout the world.
Due to its interesting position and historical background, Turkey is considered a bridge between the West and the East cultures. As much as Turkey contributed to the culture of the West, it was also influenced by it. Today, Turkey hosts several international art and culture festivals and performances that attract audience from all over the world.
National Holidays:
- January 1 – New Year’s Day
- January 21 – Kurban Bayrami (Feast of the Sacrifice)
- April 23 – National Sovereignty and Children’s Day
- May 19 – Commemoration of Atatürk and Youth and Sports Day
- August 30 – Victory Day
- October 29 – Republic Day
- November 3 – 5 – Ramazan Bayrami (End of Ramadan)
Other festivities:
- Camel wresting in mid-January
- Oiled wrestling festival in early June
- Kafkasör Festival in the 3rd week of June
- International Istanbul Festival of the Arts in late June to mid-July
- Folklore and Music Festival in mid-July
- Watermelon Festival in mid or late September
MORE ABOUT TURKEY:
Turkey is is an alluring destination, with magnificent scenery of picturesque coves and rocky headlands, turquoise waters, golden beaches and pine forests. Many harbours, beautiful resorts such as Antalya, Fethiye, Kas, Marmaris, Hisaronu… and sunshine make it more enchanting.
Turkey has been called the cradle of civilization. Catalhoyuk is a neolithic city and the first town in the world which dates back to 6,500 BC. Turkey is a country of rich historical and cultural heritage.
Turkish cuisine cannot be distinguished with the basic meal but it stands out for its variety, ways of preparing and preserving food, techniques, eating manners, equipment and utensils required for preparation.
Weather is conditioned by variety of climates in Turkey due to diverse nature of the landscape. Each region with different conditions, from the Mediterranean climate to the Continental one, and then the temperate climate of the Black Sea region.