Constantinople

Bennett wins Tour of Turkey opening stage

The 55th edition of the Presidential Tour of Turkey cycle race began with 17 teams from around the world. Istanbul is the start and the finish point for this UCI World Tour event.

Hagia Sophia will be called a mosque – Erdogan

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says tourists who will come to visit mosques in Istanbul will visit "Hagia Sophia not as a museum, but as a mosque."

Young Istanbulites, their reasons to vote in the March 31 local elections

While some young people appreciate rapid transformation in the city, many others feel there's much more to do to preserve Istanbul's charm.

'We know what to do' – Erdogan, on demands to open Hagia Sophia for prayers

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says people shouldn't be deceived by terrorist Brenton Tarrant's manifesto that contained references to Turkey and Hagia Sophia museum.

Five hidden Istanbul havens tourists seldom hear about

Think you know the city? Think again, writes Samar Sayyid

An archery contest carries 500 years of Ottoman tradition

Turkey is instrumental in reviving traditional archery with the annual Conquest Cup that celebrates the anniversary of the conquest of Constantinople in 1453.

Should I stay or go? A young Istanbul punk wonders

Mu Tunc’s debut film about a young and disgruntled punk singer was first screened at !f Istanbul Independent Film Festival. We met up with the director to hear more about his influences and future projects.

Istanbul's 'Iron Church' re-opens after seven years

The 120-year-old church located in the Balat district of Turkey's Istanbul was under restoration for seven years. Its original wooden structure was destroyed in a fire.

Archaeologists discover ancient human remains in Istanbul's new metro site

Istanbul Archaeological Museum Director Zeynep Kiziltan says the human remains are 3,000 to 3,500 old. The findings reveal details about cremation practices during the Iron Age.

The twists and turns of Istanbul’s historic Balat neighbourhood

While much of Istanbul has changed beyond recognition over the past 100 years, Balat retains a link between Turkey’s Ottoman past and the present. We look at how the neighbourhood is redefining itself in the 21st century.

Istanbul nightclub targeted in New Year attack demolished

Istanbul municipality says "parts of the entertainment centre violated legislation."

In Pictures: Ethnosports Culture Festival

The 2nd annual Ethnosports Culture Festival promoting traditional Turkic sports and culture is underway in Istanbul. Over 800 athletes are hoping to ride, shoot, and wrestle their way to glory.