Ottoman Istanbul was not simply a city that replaced Constantinople—it was a city that grew on top of it. After 1453, the Ottomans inherited an imperial capital shaped by centuries of Roman and Byzantine rule. Rather than rebuilding it from scratch, they transformed it gradually, adding new layers of architecture, institutions, and daily life. This article follows that … [Read more...] about The Story of Ottoman Istanbul (Through 25 Buildings)
HISTORY
Suleiman the Magnificent (Ottoman Sultan) Facts
Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent inherited the throne at the age of 26. Sultan Suleiman was the only son of Selim I, who conquered Mecca, Medina, Jerusalem and Alexandria. Suleiman, who ascended the throne in 1520, ruled the Ottoman Empire for 46 years until 1566. The young Sultan soon proved to be a man of many talents. Thanks to his achievements in the 16th century, he was … [Read more...] about Suleiman the Magnificent (Ottoman Sultan) Facts
HIPPODROME of Constantinople (History & Architecture)
The Hippodrome of Constantinople (today Sultanahmet Square) was the center of social life in the Byzantine Empire for centuries. The Hippodrome, where relentless chariot races were held, was also the scene of many rebellions and massacres. Today, the Hippodrome is located in Sultanahmet, in the heart of Istanbul's Old City. Focusing on Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, visitors … [Read more...] about HIPPODROME of Constantinople (History & Architecture)
The Story of Byzantine Constantinople (Through 25 Sites)
Over the past two decades, working as a licensed tour guide in Istanbul, my path has gradually led me deeper into one specific layer of the city: Byzantium. What began as a general interest in history slowly evolved into a focused pursuit. Along the way, certain books shaped that journey—most notably the Byzantium trilogy by John Julius Norwich, which brought the empire to … [Read more...] about The Story of Byzantine Constantinople (Through 25 Sites)