Constantinople is now called Istanbul.
The city, which has a rich and storied past, was officially renamed Istanbul in 1930. This change was a key part of the establishment of the modern Republic of Turkey.
Key Characteristics of Modern Istanbul
Today, Istanbul is a thriving global hub and holds several significant distinctions:
- Largest City in Europe: Istanbul is currently the largest city on the European continent by population.
- Transcontinental Location: It uniquely straddles the Bosporus strait, positioning the city on both the European and Asian continents. This geographical feature makes it a vital bridge between East and West.
- Financial Center: The city serves as Turkey's primary financial and economic center, driving much of the nation's commerce and industry.
Historical Evolution of the City's Name
The city has been known by various names throughout its long history, reflecting its changing rulers and cultural influences.
| Era | Common Name | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Greek Colony | Byzantium | Original settlement founded by Greek colonists. |
| Roman/Byzantine Era | Constantinople | Renamed by Emperor Constantine I in 330 AD, serving as the capital of the Roman and later Byzantine Empires. |
| Republic of Turkey | Istanbul | The official name adopted in 1930, after the establishment of the Turkish Republic. |
This rich naming history underscores Istanbul's enduring importance as a strategic crossroads of civilizations, connecting diverse cultures across continents for millennia.
