Anatolia, also known as Asia Minor, is a large, roughly rectangular peninsula in Western Asia, which constitutes the Asian part of Turkey. The region spans over 755,000 square kilometers and is bounded by the Black Sea to the north, the Aegean Sea to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Armenian Highlands to the east.
Anatolia features a diverse landscape with highlands, mountains, and extensive plateaus. The central part, known as the Anatolian Plateau, is surrounded by mountain ranges like the Pontic Mountains to the north, the Taurus Mountains to the south, and the Zagros Mountains to the east. The climate varies significantly, from the temperate, wet climate of the Black Sea coast to the hot, dry conditions of the southeastern areas. The interior of Anatolia has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.
The history of Anatolia is rich and complex, marked by numerous civilizations:
Anatolia has been a cultural crossroads, influencing and being influenced by civilizations from Europe, Middle East, and Central Asia. Its culture is a blend of Turkic, Persian, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine elements. The region is famous for its historical sites like Ephesus, Troy, and Hagia Sophia.
Anatolia's economy has historically been agricultural, with crops like wheat, barley, and cotton being staples. Today, it also includes significant industrial and service sectors. Cities like Ankara, Izmir, and Bursa are major economic hubs.