Türkiye, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The region was first inhabited by ancient civilizations such as the Hittites, followed by the Greeks and Persians who left a profound cultural impact. In the classical era, Türkiye was home to the city of Troy and later became a significant part of the Roman and Byzantine Empires. The arrival of the Seljuk Turks in the 11th century marked the beginning of a new era, culminating in the rise of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century. The Ottomans established one of the most powerful empires in history, blending Islamic traditions with diverse cultures from across their vast territories. The empire lasted until the early 20th century when it was dissolved following World War I. In 1923, under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the Republic of Türkiye was founded, marking the beginning of a new, secular state. Atatürk's reforms modernized the country, shaping the Türkiye we know today—a nation with a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, playing a significant role in global affairs.