Istanbul thru the lens is a pictorial tour of a magnificent city in all its glory. A thriving metropolis of continuous history that has seen and dispatched 3 empires, but its people and soul remain.
The old city
South of the Golden Horn, on the European continent, has 5 of the most important artefacts of Turkish history.
The Haig Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern and the Grand Bazaar. Called the Historic Peninsula (Tarihi Yarımada). It is the oldest, most historically dense part of the city. Shaped by Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule over nearly 1,700 years.
Beyoglu – Galata and Taksim
The area north of the Golden Horn is historically known as Galata and Pera. Today known as Beyoglu, it began life as Istanbul’s foreign, commercial and diplomatic quarter, distinct from the imperial Old City to the south.
Historical homes to Genoese, Venetians, Greeks, Armenians, Jews, and Europeans. Developed into modern day retail and cafe strip with 19th century low rise apartment blocks while retaining much of history.
Waterways – Golden Horn and Bosporus
The waterways of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn inlet are an integral of the city’s rise over centuries. It cannot be separated. From ships to ferries, they are the lifeblood of the city.
Food everywhere
Food was everywhere in Istanbul and the cuisine was extensive. The range of sweet pastries is amazing
People and life in Istanbul
