Navigate the beauty of Istanbul with a ‘map of emotions’

Istanbul, an ancient metropolis that spans two continents, has inspired songs, poems, paintings and novels for centuries.

Over the course of its rich history, Istanbul has been a home to three great civilisations; the melding of historical treasures from Rome, Byzantium, and the Ottoman Empire. At every turn, the city offers distinctive landscapes and architectural wonders – from towering minarets and golden domes to grand palaces, museums, gardens and monuments.

A Turkish-based NGO, the Mental Health Association, conducted a study to indicate how people feel about certain locations in Istanbul. An emotion map was created to help individuals make travel choices based on their moods.

The Maiden’s Tower

The Maiden's Tower, located on a small island in the Istanbul Strait, is considered the city's most romantic spot. Symbolising an unattainable beloved, the tower's captivating allure attracts visitors seeking a romantic and enchanting experience amid Istanbul's exquisite Istanbul Strait.

The tower's remote location on the island enhances its romantic appeal, and its association with various legends adds to its mystique. Its significance is enriched over time through human perception and the additional meanings attached to it.

Zeynep Ahunbay, a Professor of Architecture at Istanbul Technical University, explains that the tower's distant appearance evokes fascination and reinforces its romantic allure.

“When you look at it from afar, it appears to be at an unreachable place, evoking a sense of fascination. Its unique architecture also adds to its charm. The tower holds its inherent importance, but over time, it becomes laden with additional meanings,” Ahunbay tells TRT World.

Eyup Sultan Mosque

Eyup Sultan Mosque, on the other hand, known as a significant sacred destination for those seeking the spiritual side of the city, was identified as the most peaceful place in Istanbul.

"Eyup Sultan Mosque is one of the oldest Islamic structures in Istanbul, holding great significance as the burial place of Sahabas [Companions of Prophet Muhammad], including Ayyub al Ansari. Following the conquest of Istanbul, excavations unveiled this sacred tomb, bestowing it with deep religious importance and value. Moreover, its profound meaning is further enriched by the fact that Prophet Muhammad was once a guest at the house of Ayyub al Ansari," says Ahunbay.

“Throughout history, the Ottoman sultans invested in this place. Located outside the city walls, it developed into a peaceful cemetery, making it a destination where one contemplates death and envisions a serene passing,” Ahunbay says. “The tombs of prominent figures from the 16th century, like Sokollu Mehmed Pasha and Siyavus Pasha, along with the charitable institutions they established, add to the sense of assurance for the afterlife and the tranquility one finds in contributing to acts of charity,” the professor adds.

Istiklal Avenue

The research reveals that Istiklal Avenue is renowned as the most cheerful place in Istanbul due to its vibrant commercial and social history.

Karacaahmet Cemetery

On the other hand, the Karacaahmet Cemetery is identified as the most sorrowful location, being a 700-year-old historic cemetery and the largest in Istanbul, with the highest number of interred in Türkiye.

The Camlica Hill

The Camlica Hill holds the distinction of being the most spacious place in Istanbul, according to research. In May 2019, the construction of Istanbul's largest mosque, capable of accommodating more than 57,000 people, was finished on this hill.

The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, situated adjacent to the Grand Ayasofya Mosque at Sultanahmet Square, has been perceived as the most loyal place of Istanbul, a place where anyone can feel at home.

“It stands at the heart of the city, showcasing impressive Ottoman architecture with six minarets and a magnificent exterior and interior that evoke a sense of reassurance. The mosque is considered a remarkable representation of classical Ottoman architecture, reminiscent of the time of Sinan the Architect," says Ahunbay.

"Stepping inside its lavishly adorned interior creates a feeling of security," Ahunbay adds.

Professor Ahunbay emphasises the importance of preserving historical artifacts and cultural heritage as a duty, representing the past and accumulated knowledge. Safeguarding these artifacts ensures the authentic essence and spirit of a certain period and culture for the future. It goes beyond preserving their physical form, as their core and value are considered immensely significant.