Istanbul: A City of Forgetting and Remembering, an Armchair Traveller's Odyssey

Istanbul is a city of contrasts. It is a city of ancient ruins and modern skyscrapers, of bustling markets and quiet mosques, of vibrant culture and rich history. It is a city that has been shaped by many different empires and cultures over the centuries, and it is a city that is constantly changing.

Istanbul: City of Forgetting and Remembering (Armchair Traveller)

by Richard Tillinghast

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1446 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	340 pages

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In recent years, Istanbul has become a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. And for good reason: it is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, architecture, or food, you will find something to love in Istanbul.

A City of Forgetting

One of the most striking things about Istanbul is its ability to forget the past. The city has been destroyed and rebuilt so many times over the centuries that it is hard to find any evidence of its long and tumultuous history. The ancient Greek city of Byzantium, which was founded on the site of modern Istanbul in the 7th century BC, is barely visible today. And the Ottoman Empire, which ruled Istanbul for over 500 years, has left behind only a few scattered monuments.

This ability to forget the past is both a blessing and a curse. It allows Istanbul to move forward and embrace the future, but it also means that the city has lost much of its historical heritage.

A City of Remembering

Despite its ability to forget the past, Istanbul is also a city of remembering. The city is home to some of the world's most important historical sites, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. These sites are a reminder of Istanbul's rich history and its importance as a cultural and religious center.

In addition to its historical sites, Istanbul is also home to a vibrant culture. The city is known for its music, art, and food. Istanbul is also a city of literature, and it has produced some of the world's most famous writers, including Orhan Pamuk and Elif Shafak.

An Armchair Traveller's Odyssey

If you are unable to visit Istanbul in person, you can still experience the city's rich culture and history through the works of its writers. Orhan Pamuk's novel "My Name is Red" is a sweeping historical epic that tells the story of a group of miniaturists who are commissioned to create a book of illustrations for the sultan. The novel is a fascinating look at Ottoman culture and art, and it provides a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived in Istanbul during the 16th century.

Elif Shafak's novel "The Forty Rules of Love" is a more contemporary story that tells the story of a young woman who travels to Istanbul to learn about the life of the Sufi poet Rumi. The novel is a beautiful and inspiring story that explores the themes of love, loss, and spirituality.

These are just two examples of the many great works of literature that have been written about Istanbul. If you are interested in learning more about this fascinating city, I encourage you to pick up a book and start reading.

Istanbul is a city that is both unforgettable and unforgettable. It is a city that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, and it is a city that has been shaped by many different cultures. Istanbul is a city of contrasts, a city of forgetting and remembering, and a city that is constantly changing.

If you are ever fortunate enough to visit Istanbul, I encourage you to take your time and explore all that it has to offer. You will find a city that is both fascinating and beautiful, a city that will stay with you long after you leave.