🕌 Ottoman Legacy in Istanbul: What to Look For Today

Istanbul today is a living testament to its Ottoman past, with traces of the empire visible in nearly every corner of the city. From monumental architecture to subtle daily routines, the Ottoman legacy is deeply embedded in the fabric of modern Istanbul.

Architectural Grandeur

The most striking remnants of the Ottoman Empire are undoubtedly its architectural masterpieces. The city’s skyline is dominated by magnificent mosques, their elegant domes and slender minarets a constant reminder of Ottoman ingenuity. Beyond places of worship, grand palaces, public baths (hammams), and bustling bazaars continue to function as they have for centuries.

• Mosques:
  • Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): A 17th-century marvel famous for its exquisite blue İznik tiles and six minarets. Even with ongoing renovations, its grandeur is undeniable.
  • Süleymaniye Mosque: Designed by the legendary Mimar Sinan for Suleiman the Magnificent, this 16th-century complex is considered a pinnacle of Ottoman architecture, offering breathtaking views of the Golden Horn.
  • New Mosque (Yeni Cami): While its name suggests otherwise, this grand mosque in Eminönü, completed in the 17th century, is a prominent landmark by the Golden Horn, particularly known for its vibrant interior tiles.
  • Ortaköy Mosque: A stunning example of Ottoman Baroque architecture, perched elegantly on the Bosphorus, offering picturesque views.
  • Rüstem Paşa Mosque: Another masterpiece by Mimar Sinan, known for its superb collection of Iznik tiles in vibrant floral and geometric patterns, located near the Spice Bazaar.
• Palaces:
  • Topkapı Palace: For nearly 400 years, this sprawling complex served as the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans, offering a glimpse into their opulent lives, administrative affairs, and the infamous Harem.
  • Dolmabahçe Palace: A magnificent 19th-century palace showcasing a blend of Ottoman and European architectural styles, reflecting the empire’s modernization efforts.
• Hammams (Turkish Baths): These public bathhouses were vital social and hygienic centers during the Ottoman era and continue to offer a traditional cleansing experience.
  • Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı: Commissioned by Roxelana, the wife of Suleiman the Magnificent, and designed by Mimar Sinan, this luxurious hammam near the Hagia Sophia offers a truly authentic and high-end experience.
  • Cağaloğlu Hamamı: An opulent 18th-century hammam known for its Baroque and Rococo details, providing a classic Turkish bath experience.
  • Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı: Another Sinan creation, this 16th-century hammam in Karaköy has been beautifully restored and offers a serene atmosphere.
• Bazaars:
  • Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı): One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, a labyrinth of thousands of shops selling everything from carpets and jewelry to spices and souvenirs. Its origins date back to the 15th century under Sultan Mehmed II.
  • Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar – Mısır Çarşısı): A sensory feast, this 17th-century market is brimming with exotic spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, nuts, and traditional remedies.

Daily Customs and Language

Many daily customs and traditions in Istanbul still echo the Ottoman era. The famous Turkish hospitality, a deep respect for elders, and the strong emphasis on family ties are deeply rooted in Ottoman society. The ritual of tea drinking (çay) is ubiquitous, often served in tulip-shaped glasses as a gesture of welcome. While not as prevalent as before, the tradition of kissing the hands of elders as a sign of respect can still be observed in certain contexts.

The Turkish language itself carries a significant Ottoman legacy. While a major language reform in the early Turkish Republic aimed to purify Turkish of its Arabic and Persian loanwords, many words of Ottoman Turkish origin (which itself was heavily influenced by Arabic and Persian) remain in common usage, especially in more formal contexts or in historical and literary expressions. Street names, while often modernized, sometimes retain echoes of their Ottoman past, particularly in older districts. For example, İstiklal Caddesi was formerly known as Cadde-i Kebir (“Grand Avenue”) during the Ottoman period.

Culinary Delights

Ottoman cuisine, a rich fusion of Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and Balkan influences, is still the heart of Istanbul’s food scene. The sultans’ palace kitchens were epicenters of culinary innovation, and many dishes perfected there are enjoyed today.

• Kebabs: From the iconic döner to şiş kebab and Adana kebab, grilled meats remain a staple.
• Mezes: A wide array of small, flavorful appetizers, such as hummus, baba ganoush, and stuffed grape leaves (dolma), reflect the diverse culinary heritage.
• Pilafs: Rice dishes, often enriched with nuts, spices, and meats, are a common and comforting part of the diet.
• Baklava: This delicate pastry, with layers of filo, chopped nuts, and sweet syrup, is perhaps the most famous Ottoman-era dessert.
• Hünkar Beğendi (“Sultan’s Delight”): A rich dish of slow-cooked lamb served over smoky eggplant puree, directly from the palace kitchens.

Istanbul’s markets are still vibrant with the ingredients and flavors that defined Ottoman cuisine, from abundant spices to fresh produce and local cheeses.

Immerse Yourself in Ottoman Istanbul!

• Join our Ottoman-themed walking tours to uncover hidden gems and hear captivating stories.
• Participate in cultural workshops focusing on Ottoman calligraphy, marbling (Ebru), or traditional Turkish cooking.