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European Capital of Culture 2010

Apr 28

Written by: Neil E. Traveler
Wednesday, April 28, 2010 9:48 AM

Istanbul has a history and heritage unlike any other city. It began as Byzantium, when it was founded by Greek colonists in 667 AD and has since become the capital city of two great empires. It was known as Constantinople, the imperial capital of the Roman Empire, named for Constantine the Great, and later during the Ottoman Empire as Istanbul, the city it is known as today. Straddling Asia and Europe and divided by the Bosphorus, Istanbul has historically been a melting pot for European culture, Asian influences and the Islamic world.

The city is special in its own right, but now has even more reason to celebrate its unique place in history. That's because Istanbul was recently designated the 2010 European Capital of Culture by the European Union. The recent surge in its vibrant contemporary arts and cultural scene has many people wondering about this interesting city. This year, Istanbul will have the opportunity to showcase its treasured relics, while also promoting new projects ranging from restoration work on historic sites to building brand new art and cultural centers, staging festivals and commissioning new artistic works.

What does all this mean? A calendar jam-packed with events that highlight the traditional and modern art, architecture, cultural heritage and music unique to Istanbul. 2010 is a particularly exciting year to visit this distinct city. Check out:

Exhibitions and Museums

Uncover the cultural, economic and political relations between Russia and the Ottoman Empire during the 16th and 17th centuries. The Topkapi Palace will have on display Treasures of Kremlin Palace. See works once housed in the palaces of sultans and czars.

Over the next three months, Assyrians in Istanbul, an exhibition at the Archaeology Museum, examines the role ancient Anatolian civilizations played in forming European cultures, using Istanbul as the bridge.

The Museum of Innocence, inspired by Orhan Pamuk's 2008 novel of the same name, will open in July. The museum will document the culture and daily life in Istanbul from the 1950's to present day through film, photos and other memorabilia.

Music

Enjoy a concert in one the largest and most lavish buildings in the city, Dolmabahce Palace, as part of the Music of Istanbul Architecture. This series of concerts gives you unprecedented access to some of the finest attractions in Istanbul and allows you to experience the venues in a whole new way.

Visual Arts:

Photography Parade, a month-long series showcases the work of both local and foreign photographers portraying various aspects of the city. The photos will be displayed at the gallery of the Fototrek Photography Centre on Istikal Street.

Istanbul Convention Promo -
Next January, NETC is hosting our first-ever Teacher Convention in Istanbul! Join us as we explore and uncover the diverse history and cultures of this ancient city. See all the city has to offer as you swap useful travel tips with other traveling teachers and interact with NETC staff. Experience firsthand all the exciting benefits of traveling on an NETC tour.

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Hi, I'm Amy! Avid traveler and social marketing guru at NETC. I'm also the editor of NETC's Educated Traveler blog, where you'll find all kinds of information about travel and education, tips, NETC news, classroom lesson ideas and more! Subscribe above!

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European Capital of Culture 2010

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