Religion of Turkey
Information about religion, religious diversity and secular state structure in Turkey
Religion and Belief in Turkey
Turkey is a multi-religious and multi-cultural country. The Republic of Turkey, established in 1923, has a secular state structure and maintains equal distance to all religions. Islam, Christianity, Judaism and other faiths live in peace in the country.
Constitutional Framework
According to Article 2 of the Constitution of the Republic of Turkey, Turkey is a democratic, secular and social state of law. Article 24 guarantees everyone's freedom of conscience, religious belief and opinion.
Religions Found in Turkey
Islam (Main Religion)
Approximately 99% of Turkey's population is Muslim. The majority belongs to the Sunni Islam sect. The Alevi-Bektashi community also has an important place.
Christianity
Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant and Armenian Apostolic churches are found in Turkey. There are important religious centers such as the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople in Istanbul.
Judaism
Approximately 15,000 Jews live in Turkey. Active synagogues are found in Istanbul, Izmir and Ankara.
Other Faiths
Bahai, Yazidi and other minority faith groups are also found in Turkey.
Religious Places and Structures
Mosques
There are more than 80,000 mosques in Turkey. Historical mosques such as Sultanahmet Mosque and Süleymaniye Mosque are important both religiously and architecturally.
Churches and Monasteries
Historical churches and monasteries are found in Turkey. Rock churches in Cappadocia and Sumela Monastery in Trabzon are important examples.
Synagogues
Active synagogues such as Neve Shalom and Ahrida are found in Istanbul. These synagogues are important both religiously and culturally.
Religious Freedoms and Practices
Freedom of Worship
Everyone in Turkey can freely practice their religion. Worship is free in mosques, churches and synagogues.
Religious Education
Compulsory religious education exists in public schools. There are also Imam Hatip schools and theology faculties.
Religious Clothing
Religious clothing such as headscarves and turbans are free in private areas in Turkey. There may be restrictions in public institutions.
Religion and Culture
Religious Holidays
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are official holidays. Christian and Jewish holidays are also celebrated.
Traditions and Customs
Islamic traditions have an important place in Turkish culture. Ceremonies such as Mawlid, circumcision, and marriage are common.
Summary
Turkey has a secular state structure and maintains equal distance to all religions.
Islam, Christianity, Judaism and other faiths live in peace in the country.
There is rich religious architecture with more than 80,000 mosques, historical churches and synagogues.
Religious freedoms are guaranteed by the constitution and everyone can freely practice their faith.