Legend
The Legend of Cité de Péra
The fascinating and mysterious story of Çiçek Pasajı in Istanbul, a historic arcade rising from the ashes of a grand fire.
Legends · Oral culture · Contested narratives
Istanbul, as told.
A city-story centre that distinguishes legends from historical evidence while presenting variants and sources together.
City stories
Fact, rumour, memory.
Legend
The Legend of Çemberlitaş Hamam
The story of the Çemberlitaş Hamam, a historic bathhouse commissioned by Nurbanu Sultan along the ancient processional road of Istanbul.
Legend
The Legend of Beylerbeyi Palace
The legendary history and architecture of Beylerbeyi Palace, rising from the ashes of a cursed wooden summer residence in Istanbul.
Legend
The Legend of Bayezid Mosque
Discover the origins, architectural secrets, and centuries-old legacy of the Bayezid Mosque, built upon ancient Byzantine ruins in the heart of Istanbul.
Legend
The Legend of Bereketzade Ali Efendi
The legendary history of Bereketzade Ali Efendi Mosque, built in the 15th century beneath the Galata Tower.
Legend
The Legend of St. George’s Cathedral
Explore the legendary history, sacred relics, and spiritual significance of St. George's Cathedral, the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul's Fener…
Legend
The Legend of Atik Valide
Discover the legend of the Atik Valide Mosque and complex in Üsküdar, shaped by Mimar Sinan and empowered by Nurbanu Sultan.
Legend
The Legend of Hagia Sophia: Divine Wisdom and the Hanging Dome
Rising in the heart of Istanbul, Hagia Sophia captivates visitors for centuries with its architectural genius, tumultuous imperial history, and legends woven…
Legend
The Legend of Basilica Cistern
Discover the legend, architecture, history, and mysterious Medusa heads of Istanbul's magnificent underground Basilica Cistern.
Legend
History of the Maiden’s Tower
Discover the ancient origins, architectural evolution, and legends of the Maiden's Tower rising over the Bosphorus.
Legend
Anadolu Kavağı
Located at the northern end of the Bosphorus, Anadolu Kavağı is a tranquil fishing neighbourhood famous for Yoros Castle and local seafood.
How we read it
A legend is not history.
Every account is published with clear labels separating verified information from the layer of oral culture.
Editorial approach ↗