It is seen
that efforts of making city beautiful of the emperors after Great
Constantine is continuing. First churches within the city are
constructed after Constantine. Istanbul remain the capital city of
Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine) for a long period due to the fall
down of West Roman Empire on 5th century. The city, which is re -
constructed during Byzantium period are re - widened with ramparts.
Today, 6492 m. long magnificent city ramparts are constructed by
Emperor II. Theodosius. In the city, whose population is exceeding
half million on 6th century, one more golden age is lived under
Emperor Justinyen reign. Famous Hagia Sophia, which remained till
today, is the piece of art of this Emperor. Byzantium Empire and
capital city Istanbul's latter history is full of palace and church
intrigues, Iran and Arab attacks and frequently changing emperor
families' bloody fights.
Latin
reign, which is a dark age between 726 - 842, had begun with the
conquer of city by Crusaders on 1204, 4th Crusade, and city is raided
for years till to the all churches and monasteries as well as
monuments. The city, whose reign is passed to Byzantium again on 1261,
did not gain its former richness again. City is conquered by Turks on
1453 after a 53 days siege.
Gargantuan
canons, used for the first time in the war history by Fatih Sultan
Mehmet, are reasons of surpass of Istanbul ramparts. Capital city of
Ottoman Empire had moved to this place, population of the city is
increased with the immigrants, imported from various parts of the
country, and public improvement studies of the desert and demolished
city had been commenced. Religious freedom and social rights are given
to the former residents of the city, and let them to continue their
lives. Patriarchate, which is the head of Christian Orthodox Church,
remains till today due to the rights given by Fatih. Turkish art
stigmatized the city one century after conquer, and domes and minarets
have reigned the panorama of the city. Beginning from the 16th century,
due to being Ottoman Rulers Caliph at the same time, Istanbul also
become the center of Islamic world.ulers Caliph at the same time,
Istanbul also become the center of Islamic world.
City is
fully improved under the reigns of Sultans, and gain a miracle
atmosphere. There are frequent fires, which demolishes wide areas
within the colorful pages of Istanbul history in this period. Sultan
Palace, which is constructed in former acropolis, is reigning the
unique panorama of Bosporus and Golden Horn. After denser connections
with Western world, beginning from 19th century, mosques and palaces
begun to be constructed to Bosporus coasts with European architecture
style. Lots of palaces, constructed within a short period of time, are
also the symbols of the falling down period. Istanbul, was one of the
witnesses of another world empire, conclusion of the I. World War.
While
empire is divided, and internal and foreign enemies were fighting for
their shares, a noble commander of the Turkish army had entered into a
struggle for Turkish nation. This Mustafa Kemal named national hero,
after Independence War exceeding 4 years, republic of Turkey is
established on 1923 by him. Moving the capital city to Ankara, did not
change the importance of Istanbul. This unique city is continuing to
its life with its charming appearance.