Istanbul, once known as Byzantium, and later as Constantinople, is a city of such diverse culture and history. It was the capital of three great empires – Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman. Both ancient and modern art blends elements from Europe, Asia and the Middle East, reflecting its geographical and historical positioning as a bridge between the East and the West. It is the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. Constantinople became Istanbul in 1930, following Turkey becoming a republic. The city’s art is a visual embodiment of its complex history.

Content produced by : Great Art Explained

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