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About Türkiye

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About Türkiye

Türkiye’s land mass is 814,578 sq.km. The European and Asian sides are divided by the Istanbul Bogazi (Bosphorus), the Sea of Marmara, and the Canakkale Bogazi (Dardanelles). Anatolia is a high plateau region rising progressively towards the east, broken by the valleys of about 15 rivers, including the Dicle (Tigres) and the Firat (Euphrates). There are numerious lakes and some, such as Lake Van, are as large as inland seas. In the north, the Eastern Black Sea Mountain chain runs parallel to the Black Sea; in the south, the Taurus mountains sweep down almost to the narrow, fertile coastal plain along the coast. Türkiye enjoys a variety of climates, changing from the temperate climate of the Back Sea region, to the continental climate of the interior, then, to the Mediterranean climate of the Aegean and Mediterranean costal regions. The coastline of Türkiye’s four seas is more then 8,333 km long.

History

Turkey, often called “the cradle of civilization,” offers a journey through the origins of human history. The world’s first known town, the Neolithic city of Çatalhöyük, dates back to 6,500 B.C. Over the centuries, Turkey became home to countless civilizations — Hattis, Hittites, Phrygians, Urartians, Lycians, Lydians, Ionians, Persians, Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans — each leaving behind a rich legacy of cultural and historical treasures. Today, ancient ruins and historic sites scattered across the country tell the story of these remarkable civilizations.

In more recent history, Turkey witnessed a profound transformation under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Following the fall of the Ottoman Empire after World War I, Atatürk founded the Republic of Turkey on October 29, 1923, ushering in an era of peace, modernization, and economic growth. Embracing the guiding principle of “Peace at Home, Peace in the World,” Turkey continues to stand as a bridge between the ancient and modern worlds.

Population

According to a 1990 census, Turkey has 57 million inhabitants, 41% of whom live in the countryside. The major cities are: istanbul (7.4 mil); Ankara,the capital(3.2mil); izmir (2.7 mil); Adana (1.9 mil) ; Antalya (1.1 mil)and Bursa(1.6mil).

Language

The Turkish language belongs to the Ural-Altaic group and has an affinity with the finno-Hungarian languages.Turkish is written in the Latin alphabet and is spoken by some 150 million (it suppoused 600 million with dialects) people around the world

Religion

Although Turkey is 99% Moslem, it is a secular stale that guarantees complete freedom of worship to non-Moslems.

Geographic Regions

Türkiye divided into seven geographical regions. Four regions were named after the seas bordering them – the Aegean Region, the Black Sea Region, the Marmara Region and the Mediterranean Region.
The other three regions were named in accordance with their location in the whole of Anatolia – Central, Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia Regions. The different regions of Türkiye offer endless possibilities all year round. Each area has its own personality, history, landscape and even cuisine, and with so much on offer to visitors it is not surprising that one trip to Türkiye is never enough.
Surrounded by four different seas, Türkiye is a beach paradise with over 8000 km of sunny strips of sand. It also has an abundance of plant and wildlife species that can be enjoyed while camping or trekking in the many national parks which are dotted around the country. Home to more than 20 different fascinating civilisations, Türkiye has a 10,000 year-old heritage, much of which is still being uncovered.
Its rich history is very much part of the present, with temples, ancient theatres, churches, mosques, tombs, statues of gods, palaces and fortresses, and of course the many detailed and fascination museums which bring the past to life. And of course in cities like İstanbul , there is a modern, lively ambience of contemporary society living alongside tradition, where art and music can be enjoyed whether it belongs to today or yesteryear.

Aegean Region

The Aegean Region is one of the most historically rich parts of Turkey, known as the cradle of several ancient civilizations. It was home to iconic cities like Ephesus, Pergamon, and Troy, and has been influenced by Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman cultures over thousands of years. As a key part of ancient trade routes and a center of philosophy, science, and art, the Aegean today stands as a living museum — with countless ruins, ancient theaters, and heritage towns still echoing its legendary past.

With our location scouting, permit handling, and full production support services, we make filming across the Aegean Region smooth, legal, and efficient for international teams.

History of the Aegean Region

The Aegean Region is one of the most historically rich parts of Turkey, known as the cradle of several ancient civilizations. It was home to iconic cities like Ephesus, Pergamon, and Troy, and has been influenced by Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman cultures over thousands of years. As a key part of ancient trade routes and a center of philosophy, science, and art, the Aegean today stands as a living museum — with countless ruins, ancient theaters, and heritage towns still echoing its legendary past.

Black Sea Region

The Black Sea Region is a hidden gem for productions seeking lush greenery, misty mountains, dramatic cliffs, dense forests, traditional highland villages, and wild coastlines. It offers a unique, cinematic atmosphere rarely found elsewhere in Turkey — perfect for stories set in mysterious, natural, or rural settings.
Through our location scouting, permit acquisition, and full production support, we ensure that filming in this region’s breathtaking yet remote areas is smooth, legal, and well-coordinated for international teams.

History of the Black Sea Region

The Black Sea Region, known as “Karadeniz” in Turkish, has a history that stretches back to ancient times, inhabited by civilizations like the Colchians and Pontics. It was a vital part of the Silk Road and home to powerful kingdoms like Pontus during Hellenistic times. With its strategic coastal position, the region has seen waves of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences. Today, it retains a distinct cultural identity with unique traditions, architecture, and music shaped by centuries of isolation and natural beauty.

Central Anatolia Region

Central Anatolia offers cinematic landscapes unlike anywhere else — vast steppes, surreal rock formations, ancient underground cities, salt lakes, and timeless villages. It’s the ideal location for historical dramas, sci-fi settings, epic journeys, and minimalist storytelling. The famous regions like Cappadocia with its fairy chimneys, and the open plains of Konya, provide visually stunning, versatile backdrops.
With our complete location scouting, permit facilitation, and production management services, we help productions capture the unique magic of Central Anatolia with ease and professionalism.

History of the Central Anatolia Region

Central Anatolia, the heartland of Turkey, has been a cradle of civilization for millennia. It was home to the ancient Hittite Empire, one of the earliest Indo-European civilizations, and later became a crossroads for Persians, Romans, Seljuks, and Ottomans. The region played a pivotal role during the founding of the modern Republic of Turkey. Its layered history is reflected in its ancient cities, monumental ruins, and spiritual heritage, offering filmmakers a rich historical and cultural canvas.

Eastern Anatolian Region

The Eastern Anatolian Region offers some of the most dramatic and untouched landscapes in Turkey — towering mountains, volcanic plateaus, ancient fortresses, historic churches, and secluded villages. Its raw, rugged beauty is perfect for epic tales, period pieces, war dramas, or adventurous storytelling.
Through our expert location scouting, permit management, and full production services, we make it possible for international film crews to explore and capture the stunning and powerful visuals Eastern Anatolia has to offer.

History of the Eastern Anatolian Region

Eastern Anatolia is one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in the world. It was once home to the Urartu Kingdom around Lake Van, and later saw the influence of Armenians, Persians, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. The region’s strategic location has made it a crossroads of cultures, religions, and empires for centuries. Its rich, multilayered history is still visible today in its ancient ruins, churches, castles, and the traditional way of life preserved in its remote villages.

Marmara Region

The Marmara Region, home to Istanbul and other vibrant cities, offers a wide range of cinematic settings — from grand palaces, bustling urban streets, and coastal towns to serene countryside and historical villages. It’s the perfect choice for productions needing metropolitan scenes, historical architecture, Bosphorus views, or a blend of European and Asian aesthetics.
With our location scouting, permit processing, and production coordination services, we ensure a seamless filming experience across Marmara’s diverse and dynamic environments.

History of the Marmara Region

The Marmara Region has always been the gateway between Europe and Asia. Istanbul, its crown jewel, served as the capital of three great empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Beyond Istanbul, cities like Bursa and Edirne have also been important cultural and political centers throughout history. The Marmara Region is layered with centuries of trade, conquest, and cultural exchange, making it a place where ancient history and modern life coexist side by side — a richness that offers endless storytelling opportunities.

Mediterranean Region

The Mediterranean Region of Turkey offers golden beaches, turquoise waters, lush forests, ancient ruins, charming coastal towns, and modern resorts — all within short distances. Its stunning natural beauty and historical richness make it an ideal setting for romance, adventure, historical epics, or luxury lifestyle productions.
With our professional location scouting, permit handling, and production support services, we help international crews capture the Mediterranean’s enchanting scenery with ease and efficiency.

History of the Mediterranean Region

The Mediterranean Region, historically known as part of ancient Lycia, Pamphylia, and Cilicia, has been a cultural crossroads for millennia. Influenced by civilizations such as the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, the area is filled with ancient cities, amphitheaters, castles, and harbors. Cities like Antalya, Mersin, and Alanya are living examples of a vibrant history intertwined with natural beauty, offering filmmakers a unique backdrop that blends antiquity and contemporary Mediterranean life.

Southeastern Anatolian Region

The Southeastern Anatolian Region offers exotic and historically rich landscapes — from ancient stone cities, sprawling plains, and desert-like terrains to traditional bazaars and unique architectural styles. It’s perfect for productions seeking authentic Middle Eastern visuals, biblical-era settings, or stories rooted in ancient civilizations.
With our expert location scouting, permit coordination, and full production support, we make it possible to access and film in these culturally rich, visually striking locations with ease and professionalism.

History of the Southeastern Anatolian Region

Southeastern Anatolia is one of the oldest inhabited areas in human history, home to legendary sites like Göbekli Tepe — the world’s oldest known temple. Throughout history, it has been a center for ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians, Assyrians, Hittites, and later, various Islamic dynasties and the Ottomans. The region’s unique position at the crossroads of Mesopotamia has created a deep, diverse cultural heritage that is still visible today in its cities, monuments, and way of life.

Driving Forces of Turkey’s Economy

Turkey’s largely free-market economy is increasingly driven by its industry and service sectors, although its traditional agriculture sector still accounts for about 25% of employment. An aggressive privatization program has reduced state involvement in basic industry, banking, transport, and communication, and an emerging cadre of middle-class entrepreneurs is adding dynamism to the economy and expanding production beyond the traditional textiles and clothing sectors. The automotive, construction, and electronics industries, are rising in importance and have surpassed textiles within Turkey’s export mix.
Oil began to flow through the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline in May 2006, marking a major milestone that will bring up to 1 million barrels per day from the Caspian to market. Several gas pipelines projects also are moving forward to help transport Central Asian gas to Europe through Turkey, which over the long term will help address Turkey’s dependence on imported oil and gas to meet 97% of its energy needs. After Turkey experienced a severe financial crisis in 2001, Ankara adopted financial and fiscal reforms as part of an IMF program. The reforms strengthened the country’s economic fundamentals and ushered in an era of strong growth – averaging more than 6% annually until 2008. Global economic conditions and tighter fiscal policy caused GDP to contract in 2009, but Turkey’s well-regulated financial markets and banking system helped the country weather the global financial crisis and GDP rebounded strongly to 9.2% in 2010

01

Tourism

In recent years, Turkey has become a major tourist destination in Europe. With the rapid development of both summer and winter resorts, more and more peoole from around the world are able to enjoy the history, culture, and beautiful sites of Turkey. From swimming in the Mediterranean to skiing in Uludag,Turkey has something to offer every tourist.

02

Agriculture

This plays a very important role in the Turkish economy. The main crops are wheat,rice, cotton, tea, tobacco, hazelnuts, and fruit. Sheep are Turkeys most important livestock, and Turkey is one of the major cotton and wool producers.

03

Southeast Anatolia Project (GAP) :

GAP is a multi-purpose, integrated development project comprising of dams, hydroelectric power plants and irrigation facilities currently being built on the Firat (Euphrates) and Dicle (Tigris) rivers. It will effect agriculture, transportation, education, tourism, health and other sectors. ATATURK DAM, included in the project, is among the first 10 dams in the world.

04

Natural resources

The principal minerals extracted are coal, chrome (an important export), iron,copper, bauxite, marble and sulphur.

05

Industry

Industry is developing rapidly and is directed mainly towards the processing of agricultural products, metallurgy, textiles, and the manufacture of automobiles and agricultural machinery.

06

Political structure

The Turkish Republic is based on a secular democratic,pluralist and parilamentary system. The National Assembly is elected by popular vote and the nation is governed by the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister. Turkey is a founding nember of OECD, the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization,a memberof NATO, the European Council and the European Parliament, and waiting to be a full member of the European Union.

Why Shoot in Turkey

Turkey has recently become a popular location to film for the Hollywood film industry. Producers have begun to use Turkey especially Istanbul as a platform, bringing a number of leading Hollywood stars to Turkey. Kevin Costner, Daniel Craig, Morgan Freeman and Matt Dillon just to name a few…
Latest James Bond film Skyfall, Ben Affleck’s Argo, Taken 2 starring Liam Neeson, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy which stars actors Tom Hardy, Colin Firth and Gary Oldman and Nicolas Cage’s Ghost Rider 2 are some of the films shot most recently in Turkey and there are more projects in line.

Why Turkey?

Unique Geography and History

Turkey has an incredibly diverse range of locations that can double for almost anywhere in the world She is often called “the cradle of civilization,” as it has been home to a rich variety of tribes and nations of people since 6500 B.C. Hattis, Hittites, Phrygians, Urartians, Lycians, Lydians, Ionians, Persians, Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks and Ottomans have all held important places in Turkey’s history. Ancient sites and ruins throughout the country attest to each civilization’s unique character.
Turkey is a big country with different climates and it has everything that a film director/producer may want: natural wonders like Cappadocia, Pamukkale, beautiful beaches, rocky shores, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, mountains, dry lands, modern architecture, unique cities, towns, villages and streets.
For example The Cappadocia region, where a lot of Hollywood and European films were shot in the past, is like an open-air film studio.
Turkey can be the setting for various settings in different countries.
  • A film whose story takes place in the Arabian Peninsula, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Israel, Palestine and Jordan can be shot in some cities in the South East of Turkey
  • The Arabic architecture is dominant in Antakya, Mardin, Urfa, Adıyaman and Diyarbakır.
  • The Aegean region full of olive trees and vineyards can be the setting for Greece, Italy and Spain.
  • The Taurus mountains in the south of Turkey can be the setting for Switzerland, France and French Alps.
  • The nature and environment in the Black Sea Region is very similar to the nature and environment in England, Ireland, Scotland and the North European Countries.

A highly Developed Tourism Infrastructure

As of 2012 with almost 32 million foreign visitor arrivals Turkey ranks 7 place in the world. Turkey’s licenced bed capacity has reached to 1 million (licenced by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism 610.000) and accommodation facilities range from multinational hotel chains to simple and small family run hotels and pansions.

Easy Access

Located at the crossroads of the continents, Turkey maintains an extensive transportation network that is both efficient and cost-effective.
Airport across Turkey welcome 12.000 international flights per week. Turkish Airlines, one of the world’s leading flagship carriers, frequent numerous major cities in Europe and the world.
Should visiting producers wish to transport film equipment via sea, many ports across the country are open to international freight ships.
As for railways and roads, TCDD (Turkish Republic State Railways) operates a system that extends 10.985 km in length, including a high-speed line that connects Istanbul to Ankara. The total length of the network of highways and motorways exceeds 10.000 km across the country.

A Budget-Friendly Country

The film business is about managing resources and coping with challenges as musc as it is about firing the mind to mold fantasies into reality. Professionals value a location not only for its spectacular offerings but also for the ease it lends to the course of work.
Home to a vibrant film industry with well-established traditions of coproduction, Turkey offer producers an ideal opportunity to diminish the costs of filmmaking.
Providing unbelievably low costs for film logistics, genuinely competitive prices for equipment rental and professional labor, and last but not least, incredibly favorable exchange rates for the world currencies, Turkey is a goldmine of advantages that offers great peace of mind to film professionals in each and every phase of film production.

A Land For All Seasons

Turkey is a unique country where you can shoot the winter and the summer scenes at the same time throughout the year.

Material Supplies And Equipment

The necessary technological equipment is available in Turkey and there are a lot of companies renting cameras, light and film set equipment, cranes, Jimmy Jib and Steadycam of the latest technology.
Antalya Studios is one of the most modern studio complexes in Europe as it is soundproof and practical to use and it has luxurious star suites, workshops and sections for costume, make up and hair.
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