#taksim square

[postcard-from-the-past]

Taksim Square in Istanbul, Turkey

Turkish vintage postcard

[emaadsidiki]

Taksim Square

[iptila-e]

hatıraların masumiyeti

[secee]

[have-you-been-here]

Taksim Square, Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)

[shaheenstravelstory]

তাকসিম স্কয়ার – Taksim Square

[bilgehangood]

[tom-isaacs]

'The Standing Man' aka Erdem Gunduz

"Gunduz, a performance artist and left-Kemalist, began to stand still in Taksim Square on Monday [17 June, 2013] at 6pm local time. He stood, facing the Ataturk cultural centre, until 2am. It was a silent, stubborn and dignified protest against the brutality of the police response to demonstrators, which had culminated in a sinister weekend assault whose targets included medics and staff who treated the wounded. Indeed, the ministry of health went so far as to threaten to withdraw the licences of medical personnel who treated protesters injured by police. "The "standing man" exemplifies some features of the tradition of passive resistance. First, the ability to meet overpowering physical force with a determined, but passive, feat of defiance has sometimes been the death knell of recalcitrant regimes, whether it is the Shah or Marcos – because it points to resources that the protesters have which can overwhelm the state's repressive capacities. Second, passive resistance is not merely symbolic; it confuses and derails the calculations of the rulers. When the Soviet Union invaded Czechoslovakia, part of the resistance involved painting over street signs and mysteriously shutting off infrastructure." (Source)

[mostlysignssomeportents]

This day in history

#15yrsago Swedes take to the street to fight domestic spying https://politics.slashdot.org/story/08/06/17/0126243/wiretapping-law-sparks-rage-in-sweden

#15yrsago How Canada’s DMCA will criminalize everyday Canadians https://web.archive.org/web/20080618192040/https://www.michaelgeist.ca/content/view/3041/125/

#10yrsago Men in Toronto Mayor Rob Ford crack photo arrested in gang sweep https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/06/14/dixon_road_raids_help_complete_infamous_rob_ford_photo.html

#10yrsago NSA admits it listens in on US phone calls and reads US emails without a warrant https://www.cnet.com/tech/tech-industry/nsa-spying-flap-extends-to-contents-of-u-s-phone-calls/

#10yrsago Turkish EU minister: protesters will be treated as terrorists https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/police-to-consider-protesters-in-istanbuls-taksim-square-terror-organization-members-minister-48875

#5yrsago Adventure House: the sequel to the Haunted Mansion that never was https://passport2dreams.blogspot.com/2018/06/marc-davis-adventure-house.html

[eurovision-revisited]

Eurovision 2004 - Number 28 - Athena - "I Love Mud On My Face"

Türkiye and TRT are hosting Eurovision in 2004 after winning for the first time ever the previous year. Who's going to represent the country at their home gig? Why not the biggest rock band in Türkiye, beloved of all Turkish football fans and who have a contemporary and different (for Eurovision sound) that will do well across the continent? Welcome Athena.

The one minor negative about asking Athena to represent them is that it means Şarkı Yarışması has turned into a song selection final for 2004. My least favourite format. In this case I'm not complaining too much as I really like Athena. They've been around since 1987, starting out as a thrash metal band before pivoting to ska-punk in the mid-1990s.

This change of genre confused the Turkish music industry. Thrash metal as one thing, but ska-punk? It's basically unknown in Türkiye so it took a while for their album Holigan to get a release. Confounding received wisdom, the Turkish public loved it, adopting the title track as a football terrace anthem. Athena had made it. In 2000 they supported the Beastie Boys on tour in Germany and headlined the main millennium celebration concert in Taksim Square in Istanbul. This is all before Eurovision - Athena are big. Big in a way many Eurovision acts aren't.

I Love Mud On My Face is one of the three songs they submitted to Şarkı Yarışması for their Eurovision appearance. It's authentic to their sound, and indeed their genre. It sounds closer to the original ska-punk of the 70s and early 80s and the mid-90s Britpop ska influenced bands than the ongoing mainstream skater-punk sound. It's hugely refreshing, bringing to mind outdoor concerts in the light drizzle of a cloudy summer day. It's fun, fast and very much in your face.

Of the three songs, this fared the worst, finishing last a significant distance behind the winner. What else are Athena going to put forward? Maybe we'll find out shortly...

[voidingintotheshout]

Well shit. There goes turkey as a safe place for marginalized groups.  I remember when I was there in around 2012 and there was an LGBT coming out group handing out flyers in Taksim Square. I imagine all of that freedom for LGBTQ people is gone now. 

[surlecoeur]

alandayız.

[homosapiennns]

ITS WORKERS DAY !!!!!! ✌️✌️✌️

— 1977 May 1th, over 500 thousand people came to Istanbul to attend the workers day. There was no space left in Taksim Square. Then, the police started shooting people. 34 people died and 136 people injured.

We still can’t celebrate in Taksim Square. We will never forget!

[lgbtnewsturkey]

HOTEL REVIEWS: KUNTERBUNT APART ISTANBUL "I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by this property which is right next to Taksim Square. We had no issues with check-in or anything else and everything went smoothly during our 4 nights stay. Very friendly owner and clean rooms." Click here to book this hotel and to see other gay friendly hotels in Istanbul

(via Istanbul Gay Hotels. Gay and Lesbian Friendly Accommodation)

[tourist-destinations]

5-Day Istanbul Itinerary and Travel Guide

Pursue a 5-day idyllic itinerary through the magnificent Istanbul that will truly exhibit its eternal splendor through times past and times present. The trip will open rooms for one to survey some of the most illustrious attractions, from the splendid Hagia Sophia to the mesmerizing Blue Mosque, as well as the gyrating bazaars and engrossing food. And surely there would be startling times ahead for such encounters. It can be a good guide for first-timers alongside those who have been in this pretty metropolis before. With supreme Istanbul tourist packages, make the paramount point of what this city has on its platter for its esteemed guests awaiting to be unfurled.

Crucial Facts

When to Go? April until October

Accommodation- Radisson Blu, Hotel Karakoy, Pera Palace

Getting Around- metro lines, trams, cabs, ferries, buses, 2 funiculars

Delicacies- Turkish tea & coffee,  Manti, Baklava, Iskender Kebab

Packing List- relaxed attires cum footwear, thin jacket for breezy evenings, sun guards, key documents, medicines, chargers

Safety- Incredibly safe, be vigilant in overly crowded spots

Shopping- Purchase Turkish rugs, spice mixes, tea sets, leather items, silk scarves

Istanbul’s 5-Day Extensive Itinerary- A Primer

Day 1- Historic Spectacles

Your opening day will first take you to the illustrious Istanbul Archaeological Museums, which hold infinite yesteryear treasures from Babylonian Reliefs to Anatolian sarcophaga-which the museum boasts of. Survey Aya İrini to master its historic courtyard and walk around the Roman Emperor Constantine's controversial tomb. Then, sample a scrumptious lunch at Café Gulhane within the peaceful milieu of Gulhane Park. The next stop is the much-talked-about Basilica Cistern, an eerie underground wonder. En route, take pleasure in the Milion Stone's vistas while passing by on your way to the exquisite Hippodrome remnants. Be in awe at the intricately-ceilinged Blue Mosque and survey Sultan Ahmed Tomb. Finally, it flashes out at the celebrated Aya Sofya prior to enjoying spectacular twilight sights with a rooftop slurp at the chic Café Seven Hills.

Day 2- New-Age Istanbul

Day 2 of your intended 5 Days in Istanbul will be brimming with anticipation to walk around the local neighborhoods alongside Istanbul's up-to-the-minute art. Initiate at Taksim Square, walk through Istiklal Caddesi, and draw to a close the morning at cute Café Ara, where you relish a superb brunch. It is abode to legendary works, particularly the incredible Tortoise Trainer. Stop over at Beyoğlu's art gallery circuit that incorporates Orhan Pamuk's Museum of Innocence. Next, cross over the illustrious Galata Bridge for some delectable cuisine at Hamdi's. The afternoon encompasses a tour to the scented Spice Market and drifting along the street. Finally, opt for a ferry to the gorgeous Kadikoy for familiarizing the local food market earlier than relishing dinner at the excellent Ciya Sofrasi for a real flavor of southeastern run Turkish gastronomy.

Day 3- Istanbul’s Legacy

Get in touch with Istanbul's average spirit with fantabulous culture. Initiate at Ortaköy, where you are first going to relish Café Zemheri's Sunday brunch earlier than exploring whatever flea market has to offer. Be astonished by the Ortaköy Mosque, positioned on the charming Bosphorus. Walk to the regal Dolmabahçe and steal into its mammoth halls, the Blue Hall being one and another leading into the Crystal Staircase. Wrap up with the inimitable exhibit at the Galata Mevlevi Museum, a dance amid a human and a whirling mystic world in their famed Whirling Dervishes observance. Leave all those crowded spots behind and settle in for exclusive rooftop cocktails at none other than SNOG Roof & Bar. Bundle up your evening with an exquisite feast at Sahrap adjoining Sishane Metro while relishing the core of Istanbul.

Day 4- Roman Churches alongside Ottoman Victories

Istanbul's local neighborhoods reveal the Ottoman subjugation tale and reveal formerly unidentified Byzantine gems. Initiate the day at the outstanding Panorama 1453 Museum and indulge yourself in the 360-degree battle scene. The subsequent stop is Chora Church-a striking illustration of Crusader-byzantine art with its unmatched frescoes and mosaics. Lighten up with a composed ferry tour alongside the Golden Horn, and then take pleasure in a feast at Karakoy's Akin Balik. Spend the afternoon ahead surveying up-to-date art galleries from the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art to the splendid Tophane-I Amire Culture Centre. Close your day with dinner in the vivacious Karakoy district, embracing the extraordinarily best things to do in Istanbul.

Day 5-Grandiose Istanbul

Feel Istanbul's majesty, which reflects its exquisiteness through imposing mosques and superb palatial homes. Initiate at the Valens Aqueduct-Great aqueduct pace down towards the fine-looking Süleymaniye Mosque. Stop over at Aga Kapisi for some inimitable Turkish coffee after determining the mosque's charisma and the metropolis beyond, which presents an incredible vision over the mosque & Istanbul. Then head towards the illustrious Grand Bazaar so that you have endeavored your negotiating/haggling skills and, as a by-product, picked up some lunch en route at Carsi Kebab. Post this, you can trip to Topkapı Palace, where Ottoman Sultans dwelled decadently, and miss the stand in line via a museum card. Devote decent hours for surveying this decadent Ottoman Empire pictogram, earlier than finally implementing your five-day full Istanbul program.

Effective Tour Tips

Take pleasure in unperturbed public transport access through Istanbulkart

Rush hour is a NO for commuting at ease

Style modestly while in public and pious places

Add a little cash more so for little purchases

Don relaxed footwear to traverse Istanbul's cobbled streets in the breeze

Evade photography within religious sites

Relish pictorial Bosphorus visions via a ferry tour

Have navigation apps ready

Reach celebrated spots well in advance to keep queues at bay

Acquire Istanbul e-pass

Conclusion

This comprehensive 5-day Istanbul itinerary will pave the way for an idyllic amalgamation of times gone by, ethnicity, and present-day charm. You will observe the unsurpassed of what is accessible in Istanbul when surveying the eminent sites from the Blue Mosque to the Hagia Sophia alongside between neighborhoods full of go and the flavorsome Turkish cuisine.

[bosphorus-dinner-cruise-istanbul]

Istanbul: The City Where East Meets West

Istanbul, the cultural and historical heart of Turkey, is a city like no other. Straddling two continents, Europe and Asia, it serves as a vibrant bridge between the East and the West. With a rich history spanning thousands of years, a unique blend of cultures, and breathtaking architecture, Istanbul is a must-visit destination for travelers from all over the globe.

A Journey Through History

Istanbul’s history is as captivating as the city itself. Founded as Byzantium around 660 BCE, it later became Constantinople in 330 CE when Emperor Constantine the Great declared it the capital of the Roman Empire. Over centuries, it thrived as the heart of the Byzantine Empire and later, the Ottoman Empire. This legacy has left a remarkable imprint on the city’s landscape, with historical monuments that tell stories of glory, conquest, and transformation.

Among its many historic landmarks, the Hagia Sophia stands out as a symbol of Istanbul’s enduring legacy. Originally built as a church in 537 CE, it was converted into a mosque following the Ottoman conquest in 1453 and is now a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and striking minarets make it a true architectural wonder.

Equally impressive is the Topkapi Palace, once the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans. With its lavish courtyards, grand chambers, and priceless artifacts, the palace offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Don’t miss the Harem, a secluded section of the palace filled with ornate tiles and an aura of mystery.

For a spiritual and architectural experience, visit the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), known for its stunning blue-tiled interior and six towering minarets. Nearby, the Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel supported by 336 columns, offers a serene escape from the bustling city above.

The Vibrant Streets of Istanbul

Beyond its historic sites, Istanbul’s streets are a bustling mix of sights, sounds, and flavors. The city’s neighborhoods each have their own distinct charm.

The historic Sultanahmet district is home to many iconic landmarks, making it a favorite among tourists. Stroll through its streets to find shops selling traditional Turkish ceramics, carpets, and spices.

Cross the Galata Bridge to reach Karaköy and Galata, where you can explore trendy cafes, art galleries, and the iconic Galata Tower. Climbing the tower rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait.

The lively Istiklal Avenue in Beyoğlu is perfect for shopping, dining, and nightlife. This pedestrian street is lined with boutiques, bookstores, and historic buildings, culminating at Taksim Square, a symbol of modern Istanbul.

For a more traditional vibe, head to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Here, you can haggle for everything from jewelry to textiles while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Nearby, the Spice Bazaar is a sensory delight with its colorful stalls of spices, sweets, and dried fruits.

The Bosphorus: A Natural Wonder

One of Istanbul’s most defining features is the Bosphorus Strait, which divides the city into its European and Asian sides. A boat cruise along the Bosphorus is a must-do activity, offering stunning views of waterfront mansions, Ottoman palaces, and historic forts.

Key landmarks along the Bosphorus include the Dolmabahçe Palace, a magnificent example of 19th-century Ottoman architecture, and the Rumeli Fortress, a medieval fortification with breathtaking views.

The Asian side of Istanbul, particularly the neighborhoods of Kadıköy and Üsküdar, offers a more laid-back vibe. Kadıköy is known for its vibrant markets, trendy cafes, and cultural scene, while Üsküdar boasts historic mosques and beautiful waterfront promenades.

Culinary Delights

No trip to Istanbul is complete without indulging in its world-famous cuisine. Turkish food is a harmonious blend of flavors influenced by the city’s diverse heritage.

Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast, featuring olives, cheese, honey, simit (sesame bread), and of course, Turkish tea. For lunch or dinner, try dishes like kebabs, meze (small appetizers), and pide (Turkish flatbread).

For a sweet treat, savor baklava, a rich pastry layered with nuts and syrup, or Turkish delight (lokum), a soft, chewy candy that comes in various flavors. Pair these with a cup of Turkish coffee, known for its strong flavor and unique brewing method.

Street food is also a big part of Istanbul’s culinary scene. Don’t miss trying simit, midye dolma (stuffed mussels), or balık ekmek (fish sandwiches) sold near the Galata Bridge.

Cultural Experiences

Istanbul is a cultural melting pot, and its events and festivals reflect this diversity. The Istanbul Biennial, held every two years, showcases contemporary art from around the world. The International Film Festival and Music Festival are other highlights on the city’s cultural calendar.

Traditional arts are also celebrated in Istanbul. Attend a Whirling Dervishes performance to witness the mesmerizing Sufi ritual, or explore workshops offering classes in Turkish calligraphy and ebru (marbling art).

Practical Tips for Visitors

Getting Around: Istanbul’s public transportation system includes trams, buses, ferries, and a metro. Purchase an Istanbulkart for convenient access to all modes of transport.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

What to Wear: While Istanbul is modern, modest clothing is recommended when visiting mosques.

Language: Turkish is the primary language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Conclusion

Istanbul’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a city like no other. Whether you’re wandering through its ancient streets, savoring its delectable cuisine, or cruising along the Bosphorus, Istanbul offers an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after you leave. It’s a city where past and present coexist harmoniously, and every corner has a story waiting to be discovered. Pack your bags and prepare to fall in love with this enchanting metropolis.