Search Results for: istanbul

Istanbul’s Sky-High Rooftop Bars & Lounges

Do you know the meaning of “Istanblue“? It is best to discover the city just in sunset blue specific to Istanbul, with views from the best rooftops. From breathtaking panoramic views to chic atmospheres, these rooftop bars and lounges offer the perfect escape above the city’s energy. Sip signature cocktails while soaking in the Bosphorus, the historic skyline, and the …

Istanbul Annual Festival Guide (2025 Edition)

This guide combines Istanbul’s major annual festivals with district-specific cultural events. Each entry includes name, location, topic, organizer, and website (if available). Major Annual Festivals in Istanbul 1. Istanbul Film Festival Date: April (annually) Location: Across major cinemas in Istanbul Topic: International and domestic feature & short films Organizer: Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV) Website: https://film.iksv.org/en 2. Istanbul …

Imam Mustafa Efe: The Cat-Friendly Imam of Istanbul

In a heartwarming example of compassion, Imam Mustafa Efe, the imam of Aziz Mahmud Hüdayi Mosque in Üsküdar, Istanbul, became a global symbol of kindness when he opened the mosque’s doors to street cats. His gentle embrace of these animals -allowing them to roam freely even during prayers and sermons- struck a chord not only in Turkey but around the …

Istanbul as a Novel’s Protagonist: A Literary Journey Through Time

Politics, football, art, cinema, love, passion, anger, wealth, poverty, and history; Istanbul embodies all aspects of life and naturally becomes an indispensable setting in Turkish literature. Since the Tanzimat literary era, countless novels have been set in this culturally rich city. However, in some novels, Istanbul transcends its role as a backdrop and emerges as a central character; almost the protagonist of …

Catstantinople: Cats of Istanbul

Istanbul’s Beloved Street Cats: A City Where Felines Reign Supreme Istanbul is a city of immense cultural wealth, steeped in history and overflowing with charm. From its iconic historical peninsula and scenic Bosphorus waterfront mansions to world-renowned museums, bustling bazaars like the Grand Bazaar, and awe-inspiring natural beauty, every corner of Istanbul reflects the city’s grandeur. It’s no surprise that …

Delicious Street Foods in Istanbul: A Savory Journey Through City Specials

The food culture of a city actually includes both food and beverage. That’s why the more varied and complex settlement pockets there are in a city, the more ethnic varieties in food and beverages that one can find there. Istanbul has many different street foods a visitor can try and feel the culture.

Exploring Ottoman Architecture Through the Balyan Family: Masterpieces in Istanbul

In the 19th century, which was described as the most fervent period of the Ottoman for opening to the west, an Armenian family greatly influenced the architecture, which is still seen in present day.The Armenian architects called as the Balyan Family were held in high honor by the high state officials of the Ottoman in the 19th century. An enormous …

White Russians in Istanbul: Smirnoff’s Legacy and the Black Russian Connection

The First World War revealed a huge devastation that caused both the winner and the loser to face a great economic storm. Before the end of the First World War, Russia, in 1917, gave up and found itself in the middle of internal conflicts. On the one side were the Tsar and the defenders, on the other side, the communists. …