Turkey has been called "the cradle of civilisation" and by travelling through this historic land, tourists will discover exactly what is meant by this phrase. The world''s first known settlement, a Neolithic city at Çatalhöyük, dates back to 6.500 BC. From the days of Çatalhöyük up to the present, Turkey boasts a rich culture that through the centuries has made a lasting impression on modern civilisation. Being the heir to many centuries and cultures makes Turkey a paradise of information and cultural wealth. Hattis, Hittites, Phyrygains, Urartians, Lycians, Ionians, Lydians, Persians, Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans have all made important contributions to the history of the area. Ancient sites and ruins scattered throughout the country give sufficient proof of each civilisation''s unique distinction.

Turkey also has a very fascinating recent history. Upon the decline of the Ottoman Empire, a young man named Mustafa Kemal, who was a soldier and a great visionary, took the defeat of World War I and turned it into a shining victory by liberating Turkey on October 29, 1923. He led his country towards peace and stability that brought about tremendous economic growth and increasing modernisation. Through decades of change and growth, Turkey still boasts growing success, living by Atatürk''s motto of "Peace at home, Peace in the World".

(Source:http://dis.comu.edu.tr/yogrenci/turkey.htm)