Istanbul
Located in the center of the Old World, Istanbul is one of
the world's great cities famous for its historical monuments
and magnificent scenic beauties. It has been the capital of
three great empires; the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires,
and for more than 1,600 years over 120 emperors and sultans
ruled the world from here. No other city in the world can
claim such a distinction.
Istanbul is the only city in the world which spreads over
two continents: Asia and Europe, and the two continents are
separated from each other by a narrow strait - the Bosphorus.
Today, the continents are connected to each other by two impressive
bridges.
Surrounded by 5th century Roman city walls, Istanbul is adorned
by the masterpieces of Byzantium and Turkish art. The city
presents an exquisite, majestic and serene silhouette from
all directions.
The historic city of Istanbul is situated on a peninsula
flanked on three sides by the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus
and the Golden Horn estuary, which is a very secure natural
harbor, has always played a significant role in the development
of the city. The most famous places to visit are as listed
below;
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