Istanbul holds a unique historical and geopolitical significance that spans over two millennia. Founded in 660 BC as Byzantium, it later became the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. Renamed Constantinople under the Emperor Constantine the Great in the 4th century AD , the city served as the capital of the Byzantine Empire for over a millennium. During this time, it was a center of art, culture, and Christianity, housing the famous Hagia Sophia and numerous other monumental structures.
In 1453, Constantinople was taken over by the Ottoman Empire under Mehmed the Conqueror, who renamed it Istanbul. Under Ottoman rule, Istanbul became the political, cultural, and economic heart of a vast empire, connecting Europe and Asia. The city remained a center of trade, religion, and architecture, featuring landmarks like the Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque. In 1923, following World War I and the end of the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul became part of modern Turkey.
Today, Istanbul retains its pivotal role as the largest city in Turkey and a bridge between Europe and Asia. It's a bustling metropolis, a cultural hub, and a city of contrasts, where ancient history blends with modern life. With its strategic location on the Bosporus Strait and its rich heritage, Istanbul remains a global city of great importance, drawing visitors and investors from around the world.
https://visit-turkey.org/destination/marmara-region/istanbul/
