istanbul guide in wheelchair

Istanbul, Turkey’s cultural and historical gem, boasts a rich and diverse history that spans over two millennia. Formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, the city has served as the capital of three great empires: the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Its history can be traced back to its foundation in 660 BC by the ancient Greeks. However, it wasn’t until 330 AD, under the rule of Emperor Constantine the Great, that the city was transformed into the Eastern Roman Empire’s new capital, Constantinople. This marked the beginning of a new era, as the city became a melting pot of cultures, religions, and architectural marvels.

The Byzantine era, characterized by stunning churches like the Hagia Sophia, lasted until 1453, when the Ottomans, led by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, captured the city, renaming it Istanbul. The Ottomans further enriched the city’s history with their own imperial legacy, seen in iconic structures like the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Today, Istanbul stands as a vibrant metropolis where the echoes of its past resonate in every corner, attracting visitors from around the world to explore its storied history.

The currency of Istanbul is the Turkish Lira.
The phone code is (+90).
The official language is Turkish, but Kurdish, Arabic and other languages are spoken as well.
The time zone is GTM + 3.
Some of the famous monuments are the Blue Mosque, Saint Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace among others.
Typical dishes are Baklava (Sweet), Kebabs, Dolma, and Meze among others.
Istanbul is known for being the only city in the world that is between two continents.
Turks are welcoming and friendly.

It’s important to note that these emergency numbers are commonly used throughout Turkey, including Istanbul. If you find yourself in an urgent situation, don’t hesitate to call the appropriate emergency number for assistance.