As a cultural and religious studies expert, I have a profound understanding of the religious landscape across various regions, including Turkey. Turkey, a transcontinental country bridging Europe and Asia, has a rich and complex religious history that has been shaped by numerous civilizations and empires over the centuries.

The main religion of Turkey is Islam, which has been the dominant faith for the majority of the population for many centuries. The country has been home to all three great revealed religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—each of which has left its mark on the cultural and religious fabric of the nation. The influence of these religions is evident in Turkey's architecture, arts, and literature, which reflect the diverse religious heritage of the land.

The history of Islam in Turkey dates back to the early spread of the faith in the 7th century. Over time, as various Turkic tribes converted to Islam and the Ottoman Empire expanded, the religion became deeply entrenched in the country's identity. The Ottoman Empire, which lasted from the 14th to the early 20th century, played a significant role in the spread and solidification of Islam in Turkey and the wider region.

Today, approximately **99% of Turkey's population identifies as Muslim**. This majority is predominantly Sunni, with a smaller Shia minority. The practice of Islam in Turkey is characterized by a blend of secular and religious elements. The country operates as a secular state, with a clear separation between religion and state affairs, a principle established by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, following the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire.

However, despite its secular governance, religion plays a significant role in the lives of many Turkish citizens. Mosques are a common sight across the country, and the call to prayer is a daily reminder of the Islamic faith's presence in the public sphere. Religious festivals, such as Ramadan and the Festival of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha), are widely celebrated and are important occasions for communal gatherings and reflection.

It is also important to note that Turkey is home to a diverse range of religious communities. While the majority are Muslim, there are also significant populations of Christians and Jews, as well as smaller communities of other faiths. These communities contribute to the rich tapestry of Turkey's cultural and religious life.

In conclusion, Islam is the main religion in Turkey, shaping the country's history, culture, and daily life. The influence of Islam is evident in the architecture, arts, and literature of Turkey, reflecting a long-standing and profound relationship between the faith and the nation. While Turkey is a secular state, the practice of Islam is an integral part of the country's identity and the lives of its citizens.

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Religion & Islam in Turkey. Turkey has been home to all three great revealed religions--Judaism, Christianity and Islam--for centuries. 99% of Turkey's people today are Muslim, and Turkey's history is principally that of an Islamic people, their empires, architecture, arts and literature.read more >>