Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Turkey: Istanbul Gets in the Christmas Spirit

"TURKEY: ISTANBUL GETS IN THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
Monique Jaques 12/22/09
A EurasiaNet Photo Essay

At this time of year, it’s almost as if the year 1453 never happened in Istanbul.

Prior to the city’s conquest by Ottoman Turks, present-day Istanbul was known as Constantinople, one of the major centers of the Christian faith. These days, given the profusion of over-the-top Christmas light displays and decorations, it seems that Istanbul residents are interested in channeling some of Constantinople’s traditions."

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