Turkey, bounded by four seas on three sides, spans a relatively large region in Asia and Europe. The First Geography Congress, convened in Ankara in 1941, divided Turkey into seven geographical regions. The regions were divided in keeping with the principles of geography – with the chief deciding factors being the topography, the climate, the vegetation and the agriculture of the respective regions. Life-style factors of the inhabitants like their food habits, housing, clothing and transportation systems were also considered.
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The sparsely populated Eastern Anatolian Region of Turkey is covered with high mountains (the average elevation of the peaks being more than 3,000 meters). Many of the peaks are extinct volcanoes (with the traces of lava left behind confirming the fact that they have been active in the recent past). Mount Ararat, the supposed landing place of Noah’s Arc, is located in this region.
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The sparsely populated Eastern Anatolian Region of Turkey is covered with high mountains (the average elevation of the peaks being more than 3,000 meters). Many of the peaks are extinct volcanoes (with the traces of lava left behind confirming the fact that they have been active in the recent past). Mount Ararat, the supposed landing place of Noah’s Arc, is located in this region.
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The Central Anatolian Region (also known as the Anatolian Plateau) is an area of diverse landforms. The dry, arid highlands of Anatolia lie between the two zones of folded mountains (the Taurus and the Northern Anatolian mountain ranges) and extend to the east to the point where the mountain ranges converge. The rise or elevation of the highland averages to around 500 meters. The two large basins – Konya Ovasi and Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake) – have their own inland drainage.
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The Black Sea region (also known as the northern coastal region) is lined by a rather steep, craggy coast that does not provide much of an access. Only a few narrow valleys joining the tapered coast to the interior.
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The Marmara region, occupying the northwestern corner of the country, bridges Asia and Europe. The most populated part of Turkey, its relevance in history as well as in the contemporary world, marks it as a ‘cannot miss’ place-to-be in the traveler’s itinerary.
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The Aegean Region with its lovely scenery and setting is indeed a natural paradise. The breathtaking coastline with its stretching pristine beaches being continually bathed by the azure water of the Aegean Sea and surrounded by olive groves and craggy cliffs mesmerizes all.
A popular tourist attraction, the Aegean region promises some or the other activity for everyone. While the archeologists can explore the remains of a 5000-year old ancient civilization, the Nature lovers and photographers can have their full satisfaction in the form of picturesque surroundings and lovely landscapes. With the water-body around, there is no dearth of activity for the sailors and sports-enthusiasts.
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Droughts and floods are common to the Mediterranean region, yet the typical Mediterranean climate of this Turkish region gives it the status of the chief agricultural producer. The rich, fertile land of the Mediterranean region in combination with the warm climate is ideal for the cultivation of citrus fruits. Cereals and cotton are grown in the irrigated plains.
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