Turkey » Introduction of Istanbul

Istanbul is getting more colorful with its rich social, cultural and commercial activities. The world famous pop stars are filling the stadiums, activities like opera, balet and theatre are continuing throughout the year. In the seasonal festivals world famous orchestras, choros, concerts, jazz legends are found. The musical, folk and theatral pieces are playing full house. Among the historical places like Hagia Irene, Rumeli Fortress, Yedikule, courtyard of Topkapi Palace, Glhane park; The Ataturk Cultural center, Cemal Resit Rey concert hall and other open air and modern theatre halls are hosting the shows.

The cultural activity, tourism and commerce will continue their importance in the city life. However, the issues of population growth, traffic solution, stopping of disorganized housing, restoration of historic buildings and planning a 3rd motorway transition to the Bosphorus will continue. The daily life in Istanbul which continues side by side with the fussily protected Roman, Byzantine and Turkish monuments is colorful and live. Istanbul can be considered as the capital of Turkey in terms of commerce, entertainment, culture, education, shopping, tourism and art activities. More than half of the population lives and mostly works in the European side. The large amount of people living in the residential areas in the Anatolian side uses the bridges and sea transportation to go to work every day in the city which has been the most popular stop for the voyagers throughout the history.