Also known as "Anatolia", the beautiful land of Turkey has one million years of stunning historical, cultural, natural and biblical riches. Turkey's history goes back to the beginning of civilization. The earliest known inhabitants appeared at Catal Hoyuk, located in - Central Anatolia, in 10,000 B.C. One of the first civilizations was known as the Hittites. When Noah made his magnificent journey during the great flood, he settled his ark in Mount Ararat (Ağrı), Eastern Anatolia. When the Apostle Paul made his missionary journeys, he traveled through the Southeast, Mediterranean, Aegean and Marmara Regions of Turkey.
Today's Turkey is located between two continents; 97% on the Asian side and 3% on the European side.
Through the ages, Turks are very friendly and always show their hospitality. They are eager to make visitors welcome.
Istanbul located in the North-West of Turkey is the only city in the world built on two continents. It stands on the shores of Bosphorus Strait where the waters of the Black Sea mingle with the waters of the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn.
Istanbul embraces two continents, one reaching towards Asia and the other reaching towards Europe and guards the precious relics of three Empires: the Roman Empire, Byzantine Empire and Ottoman Empire which has been the capital; a unique link between East and West, past and present.
It honors and preserves the legacy of its past while looking forward to its modern future. The museums, churches, palaces, great mosques, bazaars and sights of natural beauty seem inexhaustible. Not only historic, but also a magnificent city fascinating and vividly alive. Beneath the unchanging skyline of domes and minarets there is the continual bustle and movement of the crowd and roaming vehicles along the ancient cobbled streets.
As you relax on the shores of the Bosphorus at sunset contemplating the red evening light reflected sky, you will understand suddenly why so many centuries ago settlers chose to build on this remarkable site. You’ll will feel that Istanbul is truly one of the most glorious cities in the world. However long you stay, just a few days or longer, your time will be wonderfully filled in this unforgettable city.
