Turkey, officially known as the Republic of Turkey, is a country situated at the crossroads of Southeast Europe and Western Asia. With a population exceeding 83 million, Turkey ranks as the 19th most populous country in the world. Encompassing an area of 783,356 km2, it holds a significant position in the Middle East, ranking 37th globally in terms of size. Turkey shares borders with Georgia to the north, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, and Syria to the east, and is surrounded by the Mediterranean to the south and the Aegean Sea to the west. The strategic importance of Turkey is emphasized by the presence of the Straits and the Sea of Marmara.

Ankara serves as the capital and the second-largest city, acting as the political center of the country. Istanbul, the most populous and economically vital city, acts as a bridge between Asia and Europe, making it a strategically significant metropolis.

Throughout history, Turkey has been a host to various civilizations, with Anatolia boasting a rich historical tapestry. Cultures and empires such as the Hittites, Phrygians, Urartians, the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and the Ottoman Empire have all contributed to Turkey’s diverse cultural heritage.