Historic Areas of Istanbul in Turkey

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Istanbul
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
Istanbul
Explore Turkey: Istanbul
Istanbul OnLine
Turkey on the World Heritage List

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1985
Size of heritage: 678 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 28,980°
Latitude: 41,008°

Summary

With its strategic location on the Bosphorus peninsula between the Balkans and Anatolia, the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, Istanbul has been associated with major political, religious and artistic events for more than 2,000 years. Its masterpieces include the ancient Hippodrome of Constantine, the 6th-century Hagia Sophia and the 16th-century Süleymaniye Mosque, all now under threat from population pressure, industrial pollution and uncontrolled urbanization.

Location on Map

Show bigger map on Openstreetmap

Historic Areas of Istanbul: A Timeless Tapestry of Culture and History

The Historic Areas of Istanbul, located in the City and Province of Istanbul, Turkey, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that encompasses the heart and soul of this vibrant city. With its rich history spanning over 2,500 years, Istanbul has served as the capital of three great empires: the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. This unique heritage site showcases the city's remarkable architectural, cultural, and historical significance.

History

The history of Istanbul dates back to the 7th century BC when it was founded as Byzantium by Greek settlers. In 330 AD, Emperor Constantine the Great transformed the city into the new capital of the Roman Empire and renamed it Constantinople. Under Byzantine rule, the city flourished as a center of Christianity and witnessed the construction of iconic structures such as the Hagia Sophia.

In 1453, the Ottoman Empire, led by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, captured Constantinople, marking the beginning of a new era. Istanbul became the capital of the Ottoman Empire and experienced a period of immense growth and cultural exchange. Magnificent mosques, palaces, and public buildings were constructed, including the iconic Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.

Current State

The Historic Areas of Istanbul are a testament to the city's diverse architectural styles and cultural heritage. The site encompasses four main areas: the Archaeological Park, the Suleymaniye Quarter, the Zeyrek Quarter, and the Walls of Constantinople.

The Archaeological Park is home to numerous ancient monuments, including the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the Serpent Column. These remnants of the Roman and Byzantine eras provide a glimpse into the city's ancient past.

The Suleymaniye Quarter is dominated by the magnificent Suleymaniye Mosque, one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. Built in the 16th century, this grand mosque showcases the architectural brilliance of the Ottoman Empire. The surrounding area is also dotted with traditional Turkish houses, markets, and hammams, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily life of Istanbul's residents.

The Zeyrek Quarter, located on the slopes of the Third Hill, is home to the Zeyrek Mosque and the Church of Christ Pantocrator. These Byzantine-era structures, with their intricate mosaics and frescoes, highlight the city's religious and cultural diversity.

The Walls of Constantinople, a series of defensive walls built by the Byzantines, encircle the Historic Areas of Istanbul. These walls, spanning over 22 kilometers, are a testament to the city's strategic importance throughout history. Visitors can explore the well-preserved sections of the walls and enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul.

Today, the Historic Areas of Istanbul continue to be a vibrant hub of cultural and historical significance. The site attracts millions of visitors each year who come to marvel at its architectural wonders, immerse themselves in its rich history, and experience the unique blend of Eastern and Western influences that define Istanbul.

Address
Distance: 0,1 mi
Cankurtaran Mah. İshakpaşa Cad. No:8 Sultanahmet
34122 Istanbul
Turkey

Time Information

Checkout: 13:00 - Checkin: 09:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

Istanbul City Tour Turkey

Published: September 15, 2014
Length: 17:52 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: José Rui Aguiar

Istanbul City Tour Turkey. Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar. part 1. Türkiye Hagia Sofia data de 537. Mesquita Azul construída entre 1609-16, deve o nome à decoração...

Istanbul city tour Turkey

Published: October 09, 2013
Length: 54:25 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: José Rui Aguiar

Cidade de Istambul - Turquia Istanbul city - Turkey İstanbul Şehir - Türkiye.

Vacation Turkey: Istanbul - AyaSofya - Hagia Sophia - Topkapi Palace - Call to Prayer - Istanbul

Published: December 24, 2014
Length: 39:55 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Ricardo Silva

Vacation Idea: AyaSofya or Haghia Sophia is one of Turkey's main highlights, located in Sultanahmet Square Stanbul, Built in 537 AD, it was used as a Orthodox Cathedral until 1453, A Catholic...

Inside Hagia Sophia / Ayasofya'nın içinde, Turkey HD (SV Anatolia)

Published: September 14, 2012
Length: 35:05 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Green Channel

Hagia Sophia is a former Orthodox patriarchal basilica, later a mosque, and now a museum in Istanbul, Turkey. From the date of its dedication in 360 until 1453, it served as an Eastern Orthodox...