Istanbul is the largest city and metropolis of Turkey, on both sides of the Bosporus, which marks the geographical boundary between the European and Asian continents, joining the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Linking two continents, it signifies their meeting, intermingling or crossing. Called Istanbul since 1930, it has borne other names throughout its history: “Byzantium” at its foundation; then “Constantinople” (in honour of the Roman Emperor Constantine Ist). Only a few other cities have had three names in the course of their history, and from a historical standpoint Istanbul can be considered one of the three most important ancient capitals.
At the same time Istanbul is one of the best-known urban centres in the world.
The city, Turkey’s largest commercial and industrial centre, has the country’s biggest importing harbour and airport.
The municipality of Istanbul is twinned or in partnership with over fifty towns across Europe and the world.
