Nineteenth-Century Istanbul Portrait

Travel Writing

Constantinople

by Edmondo de Amicis

A remarkable nineteenth-century account of Istanbul – which begins with a dazzling description of the city gradually appearing through the fog as the author's ship approaches the harbour – Constantinople expertly combines personal anecdote, breathtaking visual observation and entertaining historical information. An invaluable record of the metropolis as it used to be – a fascinating crossroads between Eastern and Western civilization and one of the most cosmopolitan cities of its time – as well as a vivid example of a European tourist's reaction to it – part delight, part incomprehension. This book will provide an enriching read for lovers of history or those planning to visit Istanbul themselves.

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