Evil eye is a belief that someone can have power over or cause harm. Concept dates back to 3300 BCE in ancient Mesopotamia. Belief found in multiple cultures including Europe, Egypt, and Middle East
Star and crescent moon symbolizes power and was used by Ottoman Empire. Turkish flag features red background with white crescent moon and five-pointed star. Presidential Seal shows 16 stars surrounding central sun representing 16 Turkic empires. Seljuk star represents material and spiritual worlds with virtues
Blue glass nazar eyes protect from envy and negative energy. Suspended bread (askıda ekmek) is hung outside homes for needy. Turkish hammam tradition dates back to Roman times
Turkey has been influenced by various civilizations including Hittites, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Ottoman Empire left lasting cultural legacy through cuisine, architecture, and social norms. Modern Turkey adopted Swiss Civil Code after Ottoman Empire's dissolution