Photography: Frits Meyst
Text: Jillian Macdonald

As I walk through the streets of Istanbul I am startled by the fact that one city alone can represent so many. I come to realize that because of its location. From the early ages, Istanbul has been a natural settling place for people of many cultures and religions. Historically valued for its representation of two great empires, the Byzantine and Ottoman, it holds many great treasures. It is no wonder that Istanbul will hold title as 'Cultural Capital of the World 2010'. Whether haute couture, international cuisine, antique galleries or international festivals, Istanbul is an empire unto itself.

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