Tyrkia

Tyrkia is a transcontinental country located mainly in Anatolia, Western Asia, with a smaller portion in Thrace, Southeastern Europe. The capital is Ankara and the largest city is Istanbul. The official language is Turkish and the currency is the Turkish lira. The population is around 85 million.

The Turkish name for the country is Türkiye; Tyrkia is the spelling used in several other languages. The modern state arose from the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire and became a republic in 1923 under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who led extensive reforms to modernize society and institutions.

In the 20th century, Turkey pursued secular, nationalist, and modernization programs, expanding education and legal reforms. A 2017 referendum led to a presidential system in 2018, with the president serving as both head of state and government. Turkey is a member of NATO and participates in various international organizations; it has a customs union with the European Union since 1995 and a customs-focused relationship with the EU rather than full membership as of now.

Geographically diverse, Tyrkia features mountains such as the Taurus and Pontic ranges, broad plateaus, and extensive coastlines along the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Black Seas. The climate ranges from Mediterranean to continental and maritime influences, contributing to varied landscapes and biodiversity.

Economically, Tyrkia has a diversified economy with strong manufacturing, services, and agricultural sectors. It is a G20 member, with major industries including automotive, textiles, electronics, and tourism; inflation and currency fluctuations have affected the economy at times.

Demographically, the population is predominantly Turkish, with Kurdish and other minority groups. The society is largely Muslim, mainly Sunni, with a secular constitutional framework. Turkish is the primary language, spoken across the country alongside regional minority languages.

Culturally, Tyrkia combines influences from Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean. Notable sites include Istanbul’s historic areas, Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale, reflecting the country’s rich UNESCO World Heritage heritage.