Lesser Known Facts about Istanbul you must know!

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is rich in history and culture and has been a crossroads of civilizations for centuries. Here are some lesser-known facts about this fascinating city:

1. Istanbul was once known as Byzantium, and later Constantinople. It was the capital of the Roman Empire for over 1000 years and the center of the Eastern Orthodox Church for nearly the same amount of time.

2. The city is located on two continents – Europe and Asia. The Bosporus Strait separates the two parts of the city, and visitors can cross from one continent to the other in just a few minutes by ferry.

3. The Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets in the world, has been in operation since 1461 and is home to over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices to jewelry.

4. The Hagia Sophia, originally built as a cathedral in the 6th century, has served as a mosque, a museum, and is now a mosque once again. It is one of the most important architectural landmarks in the city and a symbol of its rich history.

5. The Topkapi Palace was the residence of the Ottoman Sultans for over 400 years, and is now a museum showcasing the opulence and wealth of the Ottoman Empire.

6. The Bosphorus Strait, which runs through Istanbul, is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world and is the only waterway connecting the Black Sea to the Aegean Sea and Mediterranean.

7. The Galata Tower, built in 1348, offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. It was once used as a fire-watch tower and later as a prison.

8. The Basilica Cistern, a large underground reservoir built by the Byzantines in the 6th century, is one of the oldest surviving structures in Istanbul. The cistern is decorated with stunning stone carvings and is now a popular tourist attraction.

9. The Turkish Bath, or Hammam, is an important part of the city’s cultural heritage and dates back to the Ottoman period. It is a place where people would go to relax, socialize, and get clean, and many of these historic bathhouses still exist in Istanbul today.

10. The Chora Church, also known as the Church of the Holy Saviour, is a Byzantine church that has been beautifully preserved and is considered one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture in Istanbul.

11. Istanbul is home to many parks and gardens, including the largest park in the city, Yildiz Park. The park contains a palace, a museum, and a botanical garden, and is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy nature.

12. The city is also home to many historic neighborhoods, including the historic Ottoman neighborhood of Sultanahmet, which is filled with colorful homes and winding streets, and the modern neighborhood of Taksim, which is known for its shopping and nightlife.

13. Istanbul has a rich musical tradition and is home to many classical Turkish musicians and composers. The city is also known for its lively street musicians and vibrant music scene.

14. The Turkish coffee culture is an important part of life in Istanbul and has a long history in the city. Drinking coffee is a social activity, and it is not uncommon to spend hours chatting with friends over a cup of coffee.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a city with a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. From its magnificent architecture to its vibrant cultural scene, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this incredible city.