"Istanbul Crossroads" explores the captivating history of Istanbul, a city uniquely positioned as a bridge between East and West. From its role as Constantinople, the heart of the Byzantine Empire, to its transformation into a major Islamic center under the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul has been a pivotal center of cultural exchange and global power. The book highlights how Istanbul's strategic location facilitated the movement of people, ideas, and goods, fostering a dynamic cultural fusion.
The book progresses chronologically, beginning with the pre-Ottoman era and the Byzantine Empire, then moving into the Ottoman period, and finally assessing Istanbul's modern identity. It emphasizes Istanbul's ability to continuously reinvent itself while maintaining its core identity as a meeting point of diverse traditions. This approach offers a fresh perspective on world history, challenging Eurocentric views and highlighting the importance of non-Western perspectives in understanding globalization.
Drawing upon diverse primary and secondary sources, the book offers insights into urban studies, religious studies, and art history. It reveals how the city's urban development shaped social and cultural identities and explores the interactions between Christianity and Islam through its rich artistic and architectural heritage.
