theguardian.com
Istanbul's Nighttime Ghosts
A nighttime exploration of Istanbul's historical sites, encountering ghosts and legends.
English
United Kingdom
Middle EastLifestyleHistoryMysteryCityExplorationNight
BbcOttoman EmpireByzantine Empire
Sultan AbdülazizSultan Mehmet IiInspector Cetin IkmenSeptimius SeverusConstantine The Great
- What is the author doing in Istanbul?
- The author, while in Istanbul, observes the city's historical sites at night, encountering various legends and ghosts related to the locations.
- What is significant about the Hippodrome?
- The Hippodrome, once a Roman circus, is described as a place where ghostly chariot races are often reported, and the author connects with the history of the site.
- What is the legend surrounding Hagia Sophia?
- Hagia Sophia, initially a Byzantine church and later an Ottoman mosque, is depicted as a site rich in legends, including the story of priests disappearing into the walls after the Ottoman conquest.
- What is mentioned about the Ottoman royal tombs?
- The author explores the Ottoman royal tombs, mentioning the mysterious death of Sultan Abdülaziz, enhancing the mystical atmosphere of the night-time exploration.
- What connection is drawn between the author and Inspector Cetin Ikmen?
- The author draws parallels between her nocturnal wanderings and those of her fictional character, Inspector Cetin Ikmen, who also prefers to explore the city's hidden corners at night.