The population of Istanbul (Türkiye): a general description of the city. How Istanbul was Constantinople

Amazing and fabulous Istanbul is a bridge between two continents, the meeting point of Western and Eastern cultures and priceless historical heritage of all mankind. The location of the city is so fortunate that human settlements flourished here long before the advent of our era. Ancient Byzantium, pompous Constantinople and brilliant Istanbul - all these are the names of one city, lying on the picturesque banks of the Bosphorus.

In the city, a tourist will be able to see the treasures of two cultures at once - Byzantine and Ottoman. The incomparable Hagia Sophia competes in beauty with the Blue Mosque, the centuries-old secrets of the Topkana Palace are safely kept behind powerful walls, and the eastern city bazaars add color to the busy streets. All this is Istanbul: noisy, many-sided and incomparable.

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The most interesting and Beautiful places for walks. Photos and a short description.

This unique historical monument is a masterpiece Byzantine architecture, a symbol of the flourishing of Christianity and a witness to the death of the Byzantine Empire. The cathedral was founded during the reign of Emperor Justinian in the 6th century AD. Over the 14 centuries of its existence, it has been destroyed and devastated several times. After the conquest of Constantinople, the temple was converted into a mosque, destroying many Christian values. At the beginning of the 20th century, the Turkish authorities decided to give Hagia Sophia the status of a museum.

A Muslim temple erected under Sultan Ahmed I at the beginning of the 17th century. During the construction, rare and precious marbles were used. Architecture of the Blue Mosque harmonious combination Ottoman and Byzantine style, the ingenious project of Hodja Mimar Sinan Agha, who was deservedly called the “jeweler” by the people. The building is decorated big amount Iznik sky-colored ceramic tiles, so it got the name " Blue Mosque».

Another masterpiece of the architect Sinan, which has become a symbol of the power of the Ottoman Empire. After the construction was completed, the master predicted that the temple would stand forever. So far, his prophecy is true - for four centuries the building has survived several dozen serious earthquakes and survived. Suleymaniye Mosque is the largest temple in Istanbul. This is a whole complex consisting of a madrasah, baths, a library, an observatory, and prayer rooms.

A strait on the Mediterranean Sea, where in the 7th century BC. a small Greek settlement was formed. Over time, it turned into the city of Byzantium, and later into Constantinople. The bay got its name due to its shape, similar to an animal horn, and the incredible beauty of the coastal landscapes. In the writings of ancient Greek scientists, the name "Horn of Byzantium" is also mentioned. In past centuries, the bay was considered an important strategic object.

The Bosphorus is maritime border between Asian and European part Turkey, it is often called the "soul of Istanbul". Across the strait thrown several picturesque bridges, magnificent Sultan's palaces, fortresses and old quarters. Istanbul cannot be imagined without the Bosphorus. This narrow strip of water has repeatedly become the subject of dispute between states and the arena of military clashes.

The prototype of the modern stone tower was a wooden Byzantine building of the 6th century, built under the emperor Justinian. After the conquest of Byzantium by the Turks in the 15th century, the tower was used as a lighthouse, fire tower and prison. The building is located on a hill, so it is clearly visible from the streets of Istanbul. From the observation deck of the tower you can admire the picturesque architecture of the city.

The Maiden's Tower (Kyz Kulesi) was built in the waters of the Bosphorus on a small rocky island. It is believed that fortifications on this tiny piece of land appeared as early as 400 BC. during the war between Athens and Sparta. Under Ottoman rule, a lighthouse was built on the island. The Maiden's Tower managed to serve as a prison, an isolation ward, a utility room for the military and sailors, and an exhibition gallery. Since the end of the 20th century, it has housed Observation deck and a restaurant.

The palace complex, built during the reign of Sultan Abdul-Mejid I. The ruler wanted to surpass European rulers in luxury and size, so the palace turned out to be really huge: its walls stretch for 600 meters along the Bosphorus, total area- 45 thousand m². After the formation of the Turkish Republic, Ataturk settled in Dolmabahce on the ruins of the Ottoman Empire. After his death, the palace became a museum.

The most famous and famous palace in Istanbul. Until the middle of the 19th century, he was main residence Ottoman sultans. The complex was erected on the ruins of the palace of the Byzantine emperors by order of Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century. Topkany is divided into four parts. Separate entrances lead to each of them: the Gate of the Lord (service and official premises), the Gate of Greeting (the office and treasury, the divan meeting room), the Gate of Bliss (inner chambers and the harem).

Baroque palace in the Asian part of Istanbul, built in the middle of the 19th century. The building was used as summer residence Ottoman sultans. The interior decoration of the palace premises uses a mixture of Eastern and European traditions, which makes the interiors quite original. The layout is in typical Turkish style - courtyards, a separate pavilion for the harem and rooms for the hammam.

A powerful fort on the picturesque shore of the Bosphorus, built in the 15th century under Sultan Mehmed II Fatih. The defensive walls of the fortress were erected in just a few months. Rumelihisar was built specifically for the assault on Constantinople, to cut off the city from the strait. After the fall of the Byzantine Empire, the fortress was used as a customs post. The restoration was carried out in the middle of the 20th century.

Picturesque palace - park complex on the coast of the Marmara Sea. First on the spot modern palace A villa was built for the mother of Sultan Selim III. Yildiz is a building in which several architectural styles: European classics, baroque, oriental style. The palace is surrounded by a magnificent flowering park. Since 1994, a museum has been located on its territory.

A place where horse races were held 2,000 years ago during the Roman Empire. During the era of the Ottoman Empire, the amphitheater on the square was dismantled, many of its fragments went to the construction of the pearl of Istanbul - the Blue Mosque. On the square there are obelisks of the Byzantine emperors Constantine Porphyrogenitus and Theodosius, as well as an ancient Greek serpentine column.

central square historic district Beyoglu. It separates the old quarters of Istanbul from the new ones and serves as an important transportation hub for the city. In the center of the square is a monument erected in honor of the formation of the Turkish Republic. It consists of sculptures of military leaders Kemal Atatürk, Fevzi Çakmak, Mustafa, Ismet İnönü and other revolutionaries who contributed to the fall of the monarchy.

Pedestrian street connecting Taksim Square and Galat district. This alley was once central avenue Constantinople. The name "Istiklal" is translated from Turkish as "independence". The spirit of freedom and independence really reigns on the street. It is flooded with walking tourists, nightclubs, restaurants and inexpensive eateries. Here, one meter apart, there are temples and street performers, and modern bars side by side with traditional Turkish shops.

An ancient temple in the Sultanahmet district, located in the historical center of Istanbul. It is believed that the church was built on the ruins ancient temple Aphrodite in the 4th century AD e., thus, this temple is older than Hagia Sophia. Before the appearance of the Cathedral of St. Sophia, the church of St. Irene was the main temple of Constantinople, a meeting of the Second Ecumenical Council was held here under the leadership of Emperor Theodosius I.

The Byzantine Church of Christ the Savior, this place is also known as the "Monastery of Chora". The temple was founded in the 4th century AD. e., at that time it was outside the city wall of Constantinople. Inside the building, the original Byzantine mosaic and frescoes of the 11th century, which are of great cultural value. The Kariye Museum is located in an ordinary residential area away from the main attractions.

Museum, which stores unique archaeological finds that tell about the history of human development. Many exhibits were saved thanks to the export ban. historical monuments from the Ottoman Empire, which was introduced in 1884. The museum houses the very first recorded peace treaty in history. The complex includes three large buildings, which houses more than 1 million exhibits.

Istanbul cannot afford to fall behind European capitals, and therefore, like many of them, has its own contemporary art museum. The gallery opened in 2004. All sorts of exhibitions, author meetings and celebrations of contemporary artists are held in this place. The room is equipped with the latest technology, so you can often see fashionable installations here.

The park is located on the shore of the Golden Horn Bay. On its territory there are models of Turkish and world attractions, made in the ratio of 1:25. In total, there are more than a hundred different figures in Miniaturk, including the Blue Mosque of Istanbul, Hagia Sophia, the Greek Temple of Artemis, Topkana Palace. Also in the park there is a miniature Railway, airport and sea ​​port.

surviving part ancient system water supply of Constantinople. The approximate date of construction of the aqueduct is 375 AD. The total length of the stone water pipeline was more than 550 km, the Valens aqueduct is a small segment of 1.5 km connecting two neighboring city hills. In the 7th and 8th centuries structure was repaired. The aqueduct worked successfully until the 12th century, after which it was abandoned. Under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, it was repaired again and began to be used to deliver water to Topkapi.

An underground reservoir in the historical center of Istanbul, equipped at the beginning of the 4th century. The cistern served as the city's water reservoir. Water was delivered here from the Belgrade Forest through a system of aqueducts. The ceiling of the reservoir is supported by rows of marble columns, which used to be part of ancient temples. During the reign of the Ottomans, the cistern was not used, in 1987 it was cleaned and a museum was opened on the territory.

The defensive system of the Byzantine capital, preserved from the 5th century AD. It was erected to protect the city from the raids of barbarian tribes. The walls have survived to this day in good condition largely thanks to the Ottoman conquerors. After the conquest of Constantinople, they restored all the buildings. In the first half of the 20th century, the walls began to be dismantled, but in the 80s. decision was made to rebuild.

Bridge across the Golden Horn. The building was built in the middle 19th century under the ruler Abdul-Mejid I. Another common name for the structure is the “Valide Bridge”, since the mother of the Sultan took an active part in the construction. The bridge survived five reconstructions, in 2005 tram tracks were laid across it.

Modern suspension bridge across the Bosphorus, inaugurated in 1973 in the presence of the President and Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey. The structure is supported by two metal towers located at a distance of about 1 km. from each other. The total length of the bridge is 1560 meters. In the evening, multi-colored lights turn on, painting the bridge in bright colors. In the most loaded hours, the structure sags by 90 cm.

A grandiose project of German architects of the early 20th century. It was assumed that the station would become a major railway junction connecting the Ottoman Empire with Damascus, Cairo, Jerusalem and Medina. But History decreed otherwise - the empire fell, and a more modest role was prepared for Haydarpash. Now the station serves domestic eastern routes to the borders with Iran, Armenia and Syria.

A city park designed for walking and relaxing from the summer heat of Istanbul. It is famous for a large number of pink flower beds, which have been preserved since the Sultan's times. Once Gulhane was part of the palace complex, only the ruler and courtiers had the right to walk in the park. At the end of the 19th century, it was open to everyone. On the territory there is a large playground, a cafe, a small zoo and an aquarium.

The best place for shopping and the sixth largest shopping mall in the world. About 400 shops, dozens of cafes and restaurants are located on 6 floors. As in the leading European capitals, here you can find products of all the most famous and promoted world brands, ranging from affordable brands to designer houses. There is an amusement park in the underground part of the building.

A traditional oriental bazaar where sellers can communicate with buyers in many languages. Previously, goods brought from the East were sold here: spices, herbs, medicines. Nowadays, the bazaar is more focused on tourists, so a significant part of its area is occupied by souvenir shops. Also here you can buy interesting jewelry, dishes, fabrics and carpets, oriental sweets.

The largest indoor market in the world, covering an area of ​​3.7 thousand m². This is a whole "city within a city" with its own way of life, rhythm of life and laws. The bazaar consists of 66 streets and 4 thousand shops and shops. There are mosques, a school, a bathhouse, cafes, currency exchange offices and numerous warehouses. Several tens of thousands of people visit the bazaar every day. The marketplace appeared in the 15th century immediately after the capture of Constantinople on the site of the old Byzantine market.

Istanbul - history and present

Istanbul, the city is located on two continents: in Europe and Asia, so East and West, Asian and European cultures intersect in this city. Here, Muslim monuments of architecture and art, Christian churches and Jewish synagogues coexist peacefully. Istanbul is the most Big city Turkey. The population of Istanbul on this moment(2017) is more than 15 million people. Until recently Istanbul, was Ottoman Empire, but in 1923 the capital was moved from Istanbul V .

Location of Istanbul

south of Golden Horn the most is located. This peninsula is known as Surici or “ Historic peninsula“. The historic peninsula is the very first and oldest residential area Istanbul. Therefore, everything the most popular historical sights located in this area of ​​the city. Historical part Istanbul or the so-called introduced in 1985 in .

History of Istanbul

Istanbul grandiose in terms of the number of attractions, its history is intertwined with bizarre loops, and brings together the influence of the Persians, Spartans, Galatians, Hellenes-Greeks, Romans and Turks - the Ottomans. Rich history left as a gift to descendants an amazing cultural heritage.

Ancient Byzantium

Exactly on south coast mouth Golden Horn in the 7th century BC e. (several centuries after) by Dorian colonists from Megara, was founded ancient greek city Byzantium. This settlement was named Byzantium in honor of their leader named Visas. Byzantium began to develop rapidly due to its strategic position at the crossroads of trade routes. Over time, the name of the city changed several times. He was Byzantium, New Rome, Constantinople-Tsargrad, Asitane, and eventually secured the name Istanbul.

Mighty Constantinople

After Constantine the Great became the sole sovereign ruler of the Roman Empire in 323, he drew attention to the favorable location of Byzantium from an economic and strategic point of view. In 330, by the decision of Constantine the Great, Byzantium became the capital of the Roman Empire New Rome, however, even during the life of the emperor, the city began to be called the city of Constantine - Constantinople. And by 500 AD. Constantinople, with a population of over 450,000, overtook its predecessor, Rome, for the title of the world's largest city.

During the time of Constantine the Great, construction begins powerful fortress walls, in the center of the city is completely rebuilt and works of art are brought to the city from all over the empire. For example snake column, which at that time was in the sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi, was transported in 324 AD. e. Constantine the Great. Construction underground reservoir Basilica Cistern began during the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great and completed in 532 under Justinian. In 391, under the influence of his mother Helena, Constantine the Great declared Christianity the state religion.

Golden Age of Constantinople

In 527-565, under the emperor Justinian, for Constantinople comes the "golden age". During the reign of Emperor Justinian, many new architectural structures that conquer us today. For example and . For centuries, the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium), Constantinople, was the largest and richest city in Europe. But in 1204 the city was taken and sacked by the Crusaders. The Latin Empire founded after the fall of Constantinople lasted less than a century. Later, under the emperors of the Palaiologos dynasty, the power of Byzantium was restored and lasted until 1453.

Istanbul - Capital of the Ottoman Empire

In 1452, in preparation for the capture of Constantinople, on the European shore of the Bosphorus, a . In 1453, after a long siege, Sultan Mehmet II Fatih (the Conqueror) captured Constantinople. Ancient city gave way on the banks Istanbul- the capital of the mighty Ottoman Empire. Before the capture of Constantinople, the capitals of the Ottoman Empire were first, and then . Under Sultan Mehmed II, it was built, which became the residence of 25 Ottoman sultans for three centuries. Also, on the orders of Sultan Mehmet II, two bedestans were built ( covered markets), which marked the beginning of the famous.

During the reign (1520-1566), not only for Istanbul, but for the Ottoman Empire as a whole, a "golden age" is coming. Special place in this period, the construction of a number of other structures around this mosque occupies. Under Sultan Ahmet I. (1603-1617), new ones were built, among which the largest mosque in Istanbul is . Since the middle of the 17th century, the Ottoman Empire has been in decline. Despite the decline of the empire, in the 18th and 19th centuries the construction of new architectural complexes in the Stambul continues. European-style new palaces on the banks of the Bosphorus -,, Chiragan and others are vivid examples late Ottoman architecture.

Center of Istanbul

Tourists often ask “Which area is considered the center of Istanbul?” or “Where is the center of Istanbul?” IN Istanbul There are two centers, both of them are located in the European part of the city: first This historical Center city ​​- or the square of the ancient. The most famous historical sights of Istanbul are located here, in the old city. This

Today Istanbul is Big City Turkey, its cultural, historical and industrial centre. During the period of its existence, Istanbul was able to visit the capital of great empires and accumulate a rich, interesting history.

origin of name

Until 1930, the city was called Constantinople (the city of Constantine), until 330 - Byzantium. In some medieval chronicles there were such names as Tsargrad or Tsarigrad. New or Second Rome is another historical name.

There are several versions explaining the appearance of the modern name. According to one of them, it comes from the word "Istinpolin", which was used by the Arabs in the 13th century. The second version says that the beginning modern name put the word "Islambul", which translates as "city of Islam".

From Byzantium to Istanbul

The foundation was laid in 658 BC. e., when the colonists from Greece founded the city and named it after the leader Byzant. The city of Byzantium, populated by fishermen and merchants, developed rapidly. In 330, Constantine the Great, emperor of the Roman Empire, moved the capital here and named it New Rome. But the name didn't stick. The capital of the Roman, and after the Byzantine Empire was called Constantinople.

The "golden age" came for Constantinople during the reign of Justinian. After a major uprising in 532 that caused much destruction, the emperor brought in the best architects from around the world to rebuild the capital. Massive construction of new temples and palaces belongs to this period, among which the Hagia Sophia is one of the largest Christian churches.

In the period from 666 to 950, the city on the banks of the Bosporus was subjected to numerous attacks and sieges by the Rus and Arabs. During these years, valuable icons and other religious works of art were destroyed. The second heyday of the "pearl of the Bosphorus" is associated with the coming to the rule of the Macedonian dynasty. The 10th century is a time of active development of Greek-speaking culture: science, literature and painting. The last heyday of Constantinople fell on the reign of the Komnenos dynasty (XI-XII centuries).

In 1453, when the Turkish army of Mehmed II captured the capital, the Christian Byzantine Empire came to an end. The city became the capital of the new Ottoman Empire and received the unofficial name of Istanbul. The official renaming took place only in 1930.

Many people, sooner or later, wonder about this beautiful city like Istanbul, and they are visited by the question: "What was Istanbul used to be called, and what is it like?".

Istanbul is currently the most big city in Turkey, as well as playing a major role in sea trade and a major role in the country's industry. Istanbul is located on the Bosphorus. With the help of this strait, the city is divided into two parts. Between them regularly runs the subway and other public transport. There is also a bridge between the European and Asian parts of the city. According to the census, 13,854,740 people live in the city of Istanbul, which, according to 2012 data, made it possible to consider Istanbul as the most densely populated city in Europe. In the distant past, he played the role of the capital in several states.

City `s history

The very first records about the city were made in the Silver Age, and references are found in the Neolithic era. But before it was called differently, and then the question arises: "What was Istanbul used to be called?". In ancient writings, it was said that in 667 BC, when the natives settled the territory of the future Istanbul, a resident named Byzant founded the first settlement on this site. Since the city was a gold mine in terms of trade, and its location on the ground was quite advantageous, other nations began to attack Byzantium. However, after the capture of this city by Rome, the situation improved, and the attacks stopped. Further, under the influence of the rulers of the Roman Empire, the city grew strongly, and over time, the Roman capital began to be located in present-day Byzantium, which at that time was already the center of trade and the Christian religion. But after the success and successful construction of the city, it was raided by the crusaders, who plundered the city and established their Latin empire there.

But in 1453, the Turks besieged the walls of the city and took it under their control, after which Sultan Mehmed II issued an order to make this city the capital of the Ottoman Empire.

After the conquest by the Ottomans, the city underwent significant changes in its infrastructure, under Sultan Mehmed II, almost all Christian churches were demolished, and Muslim mosques were erected in their place. The Grand Bazaar and Topkapı Palace were also built. During the time of Suleiman, the construction of various mosques and other objects related to Muslim culture was actively carried out in the city. Then the golden age came in the Ottoman Empire, which greatly expanded the boundaries of the city, and its buildings became larger and richer. But due to frequent earthquakes, most of the buildings went underground and could not be repaired.

After the Ottoman Empire began to often take part in all kinds of wars, including with Russian Empire, she greatly used up her strength and began to give up her territories.

This jeopardized the very capital of the Ottomans. In 1845, an important event took place in the city of Constantinople: a bridge was built, with the help of which ships could now navigate the Bosphorus. It also gave new way merchants in the city. But time passed, and after cooperation with countries old Europe local Ottomans become interested in European culture. After a rapid process of Europeanization, dresses become fashionable, French and other luxury items from the nobility. Construction is also changing, now on the streets of the capital one could see buildings designed according to European projects.

Climate of Istanbul

Istanbul is located in the subtropics, which gives it a temperate climate and does not exhaust the residents with unnecessary weather problems. In winter, the temperature in the city can vary from about 3 to 9 degrees Celsius, and in summer - from 18 to 25 degrees.

Istanbul is the center of tourism in Turkey and welcomes up to 2,400,000 people a year. Profit from the creation of comfortable conditions for both vacationers and future tourists.

Industry of Istanbul

Istanbul is currently developing, for the most part, in mechanical engineering, as well as in the chemical, textile, and paper industries. Consumer goods and food are also produced. Tobacco and butter are also made here.

Economy

Istanbul is the center of the Turkish economy. It is in the capital that the largest banks and companies of the country are located. Every day economic transactions are made here and contracts are signed.

Results

We learned about the history of this city and how Istanbul used to be called. It was also disassembled by its sides in terms of economy and tourism.

The largest city of Turkey, the majestic and many-sided Istanbul is located on the land washed by the Bosphorus, where the Black and Sea of ​​Marmara and also crossed the border between Europe and Asia.

Many are mistaken, believing that Istanbul is. In fact, this city really performed the functions administrative center until 1923 when

Kemal Atatürk proclaimed Ankara the new capital. Such a change is associated with the strategic location of the city, since Istanbul can easily be reached both from land and from the sea.

Today, Istanbul is a favorite destination among travelers for good reason.

Geographic reference (climate, location)

Istanbul occupies a very advantageous position on the world map: most of the roads from Asia Minor and the Black Sea region lead to this city. The city is, as it were, divided into two parts by the Bosphorus Strait, the main link between the Mediterranean and Black Seas.

The climate in the city is a mixture of subtropical and continental climates. The summer period is observed dry and sultry, and the winter period, on the contrary, is rainy and cool. The most comfortable weather for tourists is from April to September, when there is practically no precipitation.

Where is Istanbul located on the map

History and development of the city of Istanbul

The location of Istanbul at all times attracted merchants, merchants and travelers, which contributed to the rapid development of trade and the city. Let's imagine the chronology of the main events related to Istanbul:

• Around 667 B.C. The Greeks founded the city of Byzantium on this site. ;
• In 74 BC the city came under the control of the Roman Empire and remained under its influence for many years;
• In 330 the city became famous under the name of Constantinople and began to function as the capital of Byzantium;
• In 1453 Turkish army captured the city and proclaimed the capital of the Ottoman Empire. In the period from 1520-1566. historians note the unprecedented flourishing of the city's economy;
• Subsequently, Türkiye repeatedly waged wars with European countries and Russia, as a result of which it lost most of its territory;
• Before 1922 the territory was occupied by European countries at the end of the First World War;
• After the end of the occupation, Turkey becomes independent, and Ankara began to perform the function of the capital of the country.

How to get to Istanbul

There are many ways to get to Istanbul:

• land route;
• on a watercraft;
• by air.

For those who are used to traveling "on the land", there is an option to either go by car, or by bus, or by train. Buses and trains regularly transport people from different countries Europe and Asia.

Istanbul has two international airports, which receive daily thousands of aircraft from around the world.

Who is Istanbul best for?

Unlike other famous resort towns Istanbul is not a city for amateurs beach holiday. Rest in Istanbul is suitable for those who like to walk through the fortresses, museums, intricate streets, majestic temples.

Also, this city will be very popular with those who are delighted with original culture Eastern countries: street trading, crowds of people, vibrant nightlife.

Istanbul transport

Transportation is very developed in the city, as evidenced by the variety of existing modes of transport:

• buses;
• "dolmushi"- fixed-route taxi;
• metro;
• funiculars;
• trams;
• electric trains;
• Taxi;
• water transport.

What to see and do

Many travelers compare Istanbul to Rome by cultural value and wealth. Numerous museums, historical values, attractions form half of the historical heritage Turkey.

It is extremely difficult to describe the main attractions in a couple of words, so we will share the main ones memorable places must-sees:

• Saint Sophie Cathedral;
• Blue Mosque of Sultan Ahmet;
• Galata tower;
• Topkapi Palace;
• Hippodrome square;
• Dolmabahce Palace, etc.

This is not all the entertainment for the tourist - Istanbul pleases the guests of the city with hospitable bazaars with oriental sweets, antique gizmos, spices, Turkish baths Hamams, real hookahs.