Europe meets Asia — literally. The continent of Europe ends and the continent of Asia begins in the center of Istanbul, whose rich history has awakened a new, blended culture that is unlike the rest of the world. 

Sultan Mehmet II rode to the Byzantine Hağia Sophia cathedral in 1453 just hours after conquering Constantinople, the city he renamed Istanbul. He called a Muslim leader to declare the Islamic creed and converted the cathedral into a mosque. Islam now reigned in Istanbul, the capital of the new Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans ruled Turkey for nearly 500 years, cementing the Muslim way of life into the Turkish culture. Until 1923.

Mustafa Kemal founded the Republic of Turkey in 1923 and resolved to transform his country into a modern state, dubbing himself Atatürk, the “Father of all Turks.” Atatürk declared Turkey a secular nation, established religious freedom, instituted the Western calendar, replaced the Arabic script with the Latin alphabet and promoted gender equality. The Turkish people still respect Atatürk so greatly that his picture adorns many homes and businesses, and speaking against his name or likeness is taboo. Nearly every person stops for a moment of silence at 9:05 a.m. every Nov. 10 — the exact time of his death.

Atatürk’s reforms introduced Western ideas that collided with the Islamic heritage of the Ottomans, forcing the clash of culture that still epitomizes the city.

Family is vitally important and children live with their parents until they marry because moving out symbolizes rebellion and promiscuity. But the younger generation is embracing the Western culture as well. Men love sports. Women love fashion. Young people enjoy staying out late and spending time with friends, much to the displeasure of their parents. 

The culture clash does cause problems, yet Turks take great pride in their heritage and they revel in the blended culture that is unique to their country. They are striving to make Istanbul a place where people from every background, every mindset and every way of life can exist together in harmony.

Check out the Get Involved section to learn more about Turkey and find out how you can raise awareness for the Turkish people.