Istanbul, European City of Culture
Every year, the European Union designates a European City of Culture (well, recently it’s been two, and this year it’s even three). It’s an opportunity for that city to showcase its cultural life and transform the way they are perceived internationally.
Previously, candidates were selected simply on the basis of their cultural history, scheduled events and the ability to provide infrastructural and financial support. Increasingly, the social and economic benefits of the award are being recognised and the potential for cultural development is now a criterion for selection.
This year, there are three designated cities, Istanbul, Essen in Germany and Pécs in Hungary. Of those, Istanbul is the one that stands out the most. Striding Europe and Asia, it has played a central role in the development of European history. After the break up of the Roman Empire and the split between Roman and Orthodox Christians, Constantinople was the Eastern end of an Empire that stretched from one end of Europe to the other. With the capture of Constantinople in 1453 by the Turks, it was proclaimed the capital of the new Ottoman Empire. It was only after the fall of that Empire and Ataturk’s Revolution in 1923 that it took on its modern name.
There’s a lot of history in Istanbul – too much really for a short visit – and it’s not always well conserved. So why not forget it and look to the future? Everyone knows the Blue Mosque, Saint Sophia and Topkapi (just watch the film with Peter Ustinov, you’ll have that one covered). What else is there to do?
The Galata Bridge
The bridge is the link between the two sides of European Istanbul. It’s a great place just to hang out and watch people. Its lower level houses restaurants, bars and tea houses with seating for watching the boats go by and an opportunity for a cheap beer.
A ferry ‘cross the Mersey is one thing, a ferry ‘cross the Bosphrus is something else
Its key strategic position makes the Bosphrus one of the world’s busiest waterways. You could take the quick way – the bridge which is an experience in itself – or you could just hop on one of the commuter boats. Get off at Beşiktaş, Ortaköy and Bebek along the way to take in the lush parks, palaces and waterside mansions yalıs
Coffee
The secret of Turkish coffee lies not in the beans but in the means of preparation. The beans are finely ground and boiled often with sugar to make a thick, often strong brew. Get it anywhere in Istanbul, try it just once, even if you don’t fancy it
Rooftop dining
Recent years have seen a sharp increase in the number of restaurants and bars on roof tops. They are a unique way of seeing the city and you’d find it difficult not to eat well in a city like Istanbul. And don’t forget that coffee afterwards either.
Contemporary art
The Istanbul Modern is a striking building housed in a former customs house. Opened in 2004, it houses a collection of mainly Turkish contemporary art in 8,000 square metres of exhibition space. One of the remnants of the eighth Biennial remains, a scattered glass staircase hung from steel chains. There’s also a panoramic restaurant with views across the Bosphorus to the minarets and the Sea of Marmara – the food is apparently average though.
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Tags: City of Culture, Europe, holiday, Travel
