Basic HTML Version
HEMISPHERESMAGAZINE.COM
•
SEPTEMBER 2012
THREE PERFECT DAYS
||
ISTANBUL
AS THE SUN RISES ON
Istanbul, the first call to
prayer sounds from the
eastern edge of the city and
ripples inward, from Asia
into Europe, dri ing over the
ruins of several empires, past
the glimmering lights of the
Bosporus Bridge and the late-
night stragglers still dreamily
dancing on riverboats.
For almost threemillennia,
Istanbul’s position on the
Bosporus, the narrow strait
that connects the Black Sea
and the Mediterranean, has
made it a tradinghub for gold,
silk, oil and spices, as well as a
stomping ground for genera-
tions of merchants, hustlers
and romantics. Location also
made Istanbul the desidera-
tumof conquerors the world
over, many of whomdecided
that this place, and only this
place, would suffice as the
seat of an empire.
Today, this city of more
than 13 million people is a
muddle of influences and
impulses: inscrutable and
hospitable, indulgent and
reverential. It’s hard not to be
overwhelmed in such a place,
so it’s fortunate that Turks
are among the friendliest
people on earth. If you find
yourself lost and confused,
as you well might, simply
ask a local for help. You will
invariably getmore than you
bargained for.