Top 10 fascinating facts about Istanbul!
1 ) Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents—Europe and Asia. The Bosphorus Strait separates the European and Asian sides of the city, making Istanbul a unique and culturally diverse metropolis.
2 ) Istanbul has served as the capital of three major empires, the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and the Ottoman Empire. Its rich history and strategic location have made it a centre of power and influence for centuries.
3 ) Istanbul is one of the most populous cities in the world. it has an estimated population of over 16 million people. The city's population continues to grow, making it a vibrant and bustling cosmopolitan hub.
4 ) The Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, was the largest cathedral in the world for nearly a thousand years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5 ) The Tünel Funicular is one of the oldest funicular railways in the world, inaugurated in 1875. It connects the neighbourhoods of Karaköy and Beyoğlu, allowing passengers to easily traverse the steep gradient between these two areas. The Tünel Funicular is a historic landmark and an enjoyable way to travel while experiencing a piece of Istanbul's transportation history.
6 ) Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, opened in 2016, the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge is the newest bridge to span the Bosphorus. It is the widest suspension bridge in the world, with a total width of 59 meters (194 feet). The bridge has a total length of approximately 2,164 meters (7,100 feet) and a main span of 1,408 meters (4,619 feet).
7 ) Istanbul is famous for its vibrant markets, and the Grand Bazaar is a true highlight. Dating back to the 15th century, it is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it offers a mesmerising array of goods, from spices and textiles to jewellery and ceramics.
8 ) While it's challenging to provide an exact number due to the dynamic nature of the city and the construction of new mosques over time, Istanbul is home to hundreds of mosques. Some estimates suggest that there are over 3,000 mosques in the city.
9 ) The Pera Palace Hotel is a historic luxury hotel located in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul. Built in 1892, the hotel has hosted numerous notable guests throughout its history, including Agatha Christie, the renowned British author, stayed at the Pera Palace Hotel during her visits to Istanbul. . It is said that Christie wrote part of her famous novel "Murder on the Orient Express" while staying at the Pera Palace Hotel.
10 ) The Orient Express, the Paris to Istanbul Orient Express, still operates once a year, offers a truly exceptional and exclusive travel experience. From the glamour and elegance of Paris to the cultural richness of Istanbul, this journey captures the essence of luxury train travel and creates memories that will last a lifetime. The Orient Express welcomed numerous famous and influential passengers, including royalty, politicians, and celebrities. Notable figures such as Queen Elizabeth II, Ernest Hemingway, Coco Chanel, and Marlene Dietrich have all traveled aboard the iconic train.
