ÅVONTUURA is excited to announce the launch of its Architecture Guide to Istanbul; the 22nd guide in our Wandering Series.
Straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a city where history and modernity converge in a breathtaking architectural tapestry. As the former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, Istanbul boasts a legacy that spans centuries, blending diverse cultural influences into a unique urban landscape. Its architecture reflects this rich history, with iconic landmarks standing alongside contemporary masterpieces that define its ever-evolving skyline.
The historic architecture of Istanbul is a testament to its role as a crossroads of civilizations. In the district of Fatih, the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque remains a marvel of Byzantine engineering and Ottoman artistry, symbolizing the city’s profound cultural heritage. Nearby, the Blue Mosque enchants visitors with its cascading domes and six elegant minarets. Beneath the streets lies the Basilica Cistern, a mysterious and atmospheric underground structure built during the Byzantine period. The Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offers a vibrant glimpse into the city’s bustling trade history.
Istanbul’s contemporary architecture reflects its aspirations as a global cultural hub. The Çamlıca Tower by Melike Altınışık Architects (MAA) redefines the city’s skyline with its sleek, futuristic design and panoramic views. The Vakko Headquarters, designed by REX, is a striking example of adaptive reuse, transforming an industrial building into a dynamic workspace. Renzo Piano’s Istanbul Modern Museum seamlessly integrates art and design along the Bosphorus waterfront, while the Sancaklar Mosque by EAA – Emre Arolat Architecture – reimagines sacred space with minimalist, landscape-inspired forms. These projects demonstrate Istanbul’s commitment to innovation while honoring its rich architectural lineage, making it a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts.
This thoroughly researched architecture guide is a must-have for architecture enthusiasts of all ages. It makes travel planning effortless and boasts an up-to-date curated list of buildings not found anywhere else; the perfect pocket-companion for your next trip abroad.
Guide Features
1. The cover features a unique architectural icon that celebrates a local project and is illustrated as a wandering path, capturing the joy of architecture and discovery.
Cover Illustration: Çamlıca Tower by Melike Altinisik Architects | MAA
2. A map identifying the general locations of the buildings, major and medium-sized road networks,
urban areas, watersheds, parks and other natural features.
3. A Recommended Route identifying a must-see network of buildings and landmarks, with dashed
lines indicating routes for contemporary, modern and historical interests.
4. A Legend of selected architectural projects featuring beautifully detailed building icons, the name of
the architect(s) / designers involved, and an address for where it can be found.
5. QR code connecting you to our digital guide with pinned locations and directions in Google Maps.
