Spotter since 2010
About me
I am devoted to culture; to experience the "other" ways of living, eating, observing and travel. I believe that mutual language is to understand the culture of others. I am a devotee for travel, music and photography. I love to experience world music as well, the music out there that opens up the minds and crushes down boundaries.
Why Istanbul?
Because Istanbul is unique...
Athens, Alexandria, Antioch, Rome, or those that have come after, such as Baghdad and Damascus... These are cities with mono-culture, cities that do not host a historical continuity or multi-cultural component.
In the 17th century no city could compare to Istanbul. Istanbul is "The City” (sehr-i yegane), peerless and unprecedented. That is why Napoleon said, "If the world was only one country, Istanbul would be its capital".
Pierre Gilles, who came to Istanbul in the 16th century to research the topography of ancient objects and structures, and whose work is still a primary reference, has this to say at the beginning of his book: "All the other cities are mortal, but I think Istanbul will live as long as mankind exists.". A Chinese writer refers to Istanbul as 'the city of cities'.
Anna Comnena, daughter of the Byzantine Emperor, who meticulously described the Istanbul of her day in her renowned chronicle of her father's rule, called this city 'the queen of cities.'
We call it 'the legendary city'.
Where else can you find me online?
www.tikabasamuzik.com
Flickr
The "Tortoise Trainer" is one of my favorite paintings to be found in Istanbul. You can see it in the contemporary/orientalist Istanbul Pera museum.
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The "Pera Museum" is for you if you're into art from the life of Istanbul and the Ottoman world between the 17th and early 20th century...
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The "Chandeliers in Istanbul's Hagia Sophia" have their own little recent story which is good to remember whenever you pay a visit... Lighting is key!
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"Elgiz Museum" in Istanbul is Turkey's first contemporary art museum. It's usually empty and perfect for any art lover out there. It's just a bit remote...
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"Theodosius Cistern" in Istanbul is unique in the world and older than even the Hagia Sophia. In my opinion it's highlight and not to be missed...
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The "Pigeon Feeder" outside Istanbul's Yeni Camii (Mosque) has been selling wheat for the tourists and locals to feed the pigeons as long as he can remember.
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The "Fatih Mosque" in Istanbul is a great mosque to visit. If you have the time, don't be shy - enter and observe the interior, perceive the light...
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"Grand Bazaar" is my place to buy the best Istanbul souvenir: round, fat evil eyes! Just don't forget to bargain...
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Write about everything you 🤍 but skip touristic highlights