Although not part of the European Union (EU) yet, Turkey has one foot in Europe while its other is in the Middle East. It has two European and six Asian countries for neighbours, bordering Greece and Bulgaria to the west and Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq and Syria to the east.

Turkey is a difficult country to get to know unless you live there, but it is very popular with tourists for its history, beautiful scenery and warm seas. It is surrounded by sea on three sides - the Black Sea in the north, the Mediterranean in the south and the Aegean Sea in the west. As well as great beaches, Turkey has some large forests and big mountain ranges to explore.

Most Turks live in the west of the country, where most of the large, modern cities are. Although it is not the capital of Turkey, Istanbul is the most famous city. It is near the Black Sea, and is less like other European cities than the real capital, Ankara. Some Turkish cities are as much as 10,000 years old, and have many old, amazing buildings.

So, as well as being a modern European country, Turkey is famous for its eastern culture - mosques, Turkish Baths and ancient history. Find out more in the Turkish Delights section.

And what about Turkish wildlife, its peculiar sports, and its food? Find out in Life.

Lastly, don’t forget to check out some Amazing Facts.

Links

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http://www.about-turkey.com
- Turkish facts, figures and information

http://www.turkishculture.org
- information on all things Turkish with great pictures

http://www.exploreistanbul.com
- a guide to the city of Istanbul

http://www.exploreturkey.com
- a general guide to visiting areas of the country

http://www.multimap.com
- detailed maps of Europe, including Turkey

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/middle_east/turkey/
- interesting information and facts on Turkey

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