The Yunus Emre Institute (Turkish: Yunus Emre Enstitüsü ) was established as a foundation in 2007 with a specific aim to promote the history, culture and language of Turkey. It was named after the famous 13th century Poet Yunus Emre. This bridge-building mission has resulted in 85 branches of the institute opening around the world, including in London in November 2010. The institute plays an important role in education and culture: it is one of the primary places in Britain to learn Turkish. Located in Maple Street, Fitzrovia, it houses an extensive library that is open to students and academics; and it regularly holds an array of classes and events to teach and promote traditional and contemporary Turkish art and Turkish culture. In doing so, the Yunus Emre Enstitüsü seeks to increase the cultural exchange and improve the friendship between Turkey and the United Kingdom.