The culture of Turkey is diverse, combining elements derived from Ottoman, European, and Islamic traditions.The nation was modernized primarily by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. As he transformed a religion-driven former Ottoman Empire into a modern nation-state with strong separation of state and religion, a corresponding increase in the methods of artistic expression arose. During the first years of the republic, the government invested a large amount of resources into fine arts such as paintings, sculpture and architecture. This was done as both a process of modernisation and of creating a cultural identity.Because of the different historical factors defining a Turkish identity, the culture of Turkey combines clear efforts to be "modern" and Western, with a desire to maintain traditional religious and historical values.

Cappadocia or Capadocia, (Turkish Kapadokya) is a vast plateau in Turkey dominated by the extinct volcano – Erciyesdagi. It is a region of exceptional natural wonders characterized by fairy chimneys and a unique historical and cultural heritage.

MySpace continues to roll out local versions of its social network. As I wrote last week, they tend to put a team on the ground locally (they are now hiring in Turkey) and then build the site not only in the local language, but promote local artists and other popular culture as well.

Istanbul is the most populous city in Turkey and is the business and culture hub for the country. The city is divided into two parts – the European and the Asian side, divided by the Bosporous river. When visiting Istanbul, stay around the Golden Horn to visit all of the tourist attractions.

>...The remaining Christians in Turkey have been under attack in recent years during a resurgence of Islamic fundamentalism in Turkish culture. The increasing incidence of violence against Christians is not random, but is focused mainly on Christian ministers from various denominations......>>

A Squidoo lens about the unique experience of art and culture in getting a men's haircut in Turkey. A good way to experience Turkish culture is to get a Turkish haircut. It is a form of art and a national treasure! Turks take hair very seriously. So seriously that foreigners are forbidden employment as barbers. Got two hours? Worth every minute!