Turkey is a republic located in the region straddling Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The civilizations of various peoples have flourished here since ancient times, and their legacies can still be seen throughout the country, including Troia and Ephesus. Istanbul, in particular, was the capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and the unique mixture of their respective cultures is a fascinating atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy gourmet and healing explorations, such as the world-famous Turkish cuisine, which makes extensive use of aromatic spices and yogurt, or experience a hammam at a hot spring resort.