Istanbul – The Rich Heritage of Turkish culture
Istanbul – the city of desires, is known for its prestige culture and lifestyle. The country is filled with mesmerizing locations that come with a line of the vast and rich heritage that builds up the foundation of its culture. And to get a slight hint of how these customs and traditions bond the people of this country, Istanbul can be a prime example.
The Capital City of Turkey- Istanbul, was once also famous as Constantinople, named after one of the most famous Roman emperors who ruled the country. However, that is not the only reason it is the center of the world’s activity.
The beauty of this city lies in its nuances and fine details of how the city has been built. The hospitality of the people and the fondness for language and customs provide a particular type of connection to this country like no other.
If you are interested in Turkish culture, you will also appreciate Turkish art
History
Istanbul’s rich culture effortlessly defines how many times different cultures have influenced it. This city has been the capital of many civilizations, including the Roman, Byzantine, Latin, Ottoman, and Western Empires.
Afterward, it was conquered by non-other Fatih Sultan Mehmed, who brought Islam and its breathtaking traditions, which have ultimately influenced the beauty of this country in many ways. The city has adapted from food to different landmarks, which shows through the country’s rich culture.
Landmarks
With no surprise, Istanbul welcomes thousands of tourists every year. It is packed with historically salient places to visit. Unlike other historical landmarks filled with paintings, the charm of these places has been enhanced through geometrical designs and calligraphy of skillful talent.
The Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque hold definite importance in the cultural shift that Islamic leaders brought to the city. On the other hand, places like Galata Tower, Taksim Square, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Beylerbeyi Palace, and Dolmabahçe Palace show how greatly the past empires utilized the city.
By doing so, they not only ruled the city but also left their footmark on it to be remembered and appreciated by the entire globe. This also directly supports the economic and commercial status of the country.
Religion
Different civilizations and religions have shaped the vast and complex city of Istanbul. However, one religion that stuck with it and was positively adopted by the people of Istanbul is the religion of Islam.
Islam has been a considerable part of the city since 1952. And it holds such great importance to the civilians that one of the oldest personal belongings of the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) has been stored safely in the grand mosque of Eyup Sultan and Çamlica Mosque.
Islam is not the only religion that has influenced the country for good. Religions like Christianity and Judaism have also heavily dominated their society. However, the Non-Muslim sector of the city has started to decline since the early 2000s.
Food
The one thing that stands out in the cultural sector of Istanbul is the sweets. There is a whole variety of sweets that you can find on the streets and markets of Istanbul. They are also modified to different levels of appeal that one could never get tired of a single bite.
Apart from sweets, seafood is one of the most famous attractions local restaurants provide. These restaurants are mainly located at the shores of the Bosphorus, on both the Asian and European sides.
The most famous dishes to hunt for on your next Istanbul trip should include the Turkish Breakfast, Turkish pizza, Dondurma (the infamous Turkish Ice cream), Meze, Kahvesi, and not forget the diversity of kebabs and juices.
Istanbul hosts different beers and wines for tourists even though most of the population is Muslim.
Entertainment
Apart from their daily work routine, the civilians of Istanbul keep themselves busy through different sources of leisure and entertainment. One of the most famous ones is the quality time spent by the individuals with their group of friends under the Ortaköy bridge. This bridge has been connecting Asia to Europe since 1973. They primarily play games in the hub, share puffs of Huka, and enjoy their tea.
Istanbul remains the city of different experiences, one of which may include the Turkish Bath. Few of these Turkish Baths go as old as hundreds of years. Blended with the Roman Bath Culture, this Asian bath system is a great way to relax and melt all the stress.
However, shopping points like the Grand Bazaar do not leave the tourist disappointed. Its maze-like design and colorful yet fragrant bazaar lead the customers into eye-catching and specifically themed shops, making it difficult for the customers to leave empty-handed. That is why it is one of the Focal points for tourists to collect souvenirs from their trip and show them off to their loved ones back home.
Sports
Like any other aspect of Turkish traditions, sports life has also run through centuries. One of the prime examples is the Chariot races taken from the Roman and Byzantine Empires. However, in the 21st century, this game has run out of its lifetime. But whatsoever, the country is still called the Capital of Sports.
Football (soccer) is the most famous sport of all time. And not only has it been enjoyed and praised by locals, but it also won several championships, including Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray, Beşiktaş, Kasimpaşa, and Büyükşehir Belediye.
Istanbul’s indoor arena has also played a massive part in the country’s sports league, due to which different championships have been held. Besides that, basketball and sailing races are also eye gazers for the sports audience.
Bottom Line
The city of Istanbul may have been divided into Old town and Modern Istanbul. However, the rich history brings such fascinating traditions and culture to the surface that none can keep their eyes off its beauty.
You may be interested in knowing the main attractions of Istanbul
Nothing could be there to get second thoughts in your mind for not visiting the country. This historically magnificent experience is hosted by one of the most hospitable people you could find around the Globe, ultimately making you want a second visit. So get ready for a thrilling adventure that awaits you in the Turkish city of Istanbul.