Istanbul

The incredible transformations that Istanbul has been subjected to in its history are reflected in its changes of name: Istanbul, Constantinople, Byzantium. The former capital of three successive empires (Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman), today Istanbul is still one of the great cities of the world. Embracing two continents, one arm reaching out to Asia and the other to Europe, through Istanbul run the waters of the Black Sea, the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn. The museums, churches, palaces, great mosques, bazaars and sights of natural beauty seem endless. The famous sky line reflects its past: the six minarets of the Blue Mosque and the impressive Suleymaniye Mosque strain to rival the great dome of St Sophia. This guidebook will help infuse the traveller to Istanbul with a clear sense of the different cultures and influences which contribute to the make-up of this fascinating city. This guide includes detailed maps of walks around the city; comprehensive tours of monuments, tombs and ancient religious sites; frank, practical advice on where to stay and what to take; a complete account of the city's complex yet absorbing history.