The tulip flower originated centuries ago in Turkey, where they were so prominent that they became a symbol for the Turkish empire. They were introduced in Europe in the 16th century, where they were given the name "tulip," which is the Persian word for "turban.". The flower was given this name because of its resemblance to the turbans worn in Turkey, its country of origin. Tulips are popular in Europe, especially in the Netherlands in the 17th century, it was used as a form of currency and set off a phenomenon called. "Tulip mania".