B21

Sultanahmet is a quarter that has experienced a rebirth, rising from the ashes scattered over it once upon a time. It never misses the opportunity for change.

French singer Jacques Brel, who eloquently conveyed the feelings, emotions, moods, and expectations of individuals just after the Second World War in his song “Les Vieux,” remarked, “Old people are like living dead… They live in their memories.” The old quarter of Istanbul, Sultanahmet, echoes a similar sentiment. Like old people, it lives with memories. Sultanahmet, from time to time, appears to be “like a living dead,” either asleep for a long period or giving the impression of having fallen asleep. Nevertheless, Sultanahmet, despite its advanced age, consistently adapts to modern times. It surprises The Unique Place Where Everyone Plays Chess, reviving itself through the energy derived from being the cradle of civili

We can confidently assert that Bahcesaray is the exclusive settlement in our country where everyone, without exception, engages in chess playing. It is genuinely remarkable to witness children, grandfathers, and grandmothers all participating in chess games together. While the county’s isolation from other regions provides people with ample free time, it cannot be merely attributed to the primary reason for this widespread interest in chess; rather, it is the fundamental cause for its adoption and dissemination. Chess brings a distinctiveness to Bahcesaray. The author of this text has organized “the National Bahcesaray Chess Festivities” there for three years in coordination with the municipality and district governorship. These festivities have garnered interest nationwide, contributing to the county’s public recognition.

Lure is Present, Tourism Thrives

Bahcesaray remains an undiscovered gem in terms of tourism, presenting itself as a true t

Let’s explore Tevkifhane Street, then move on to Kapiagzi and Ishakpapa Street from Utangap Street. As we walk downhill, we’ll reach Cankurtaran Square. We can pause for a cup of tea or coffee at the late Erol Tap’s café on Cankurtaran Square, surrounded by the sounds of passing trains. The front part of the café where we sit is a typical Roman Square. Let’s venture into the old alleys for a while and transport ourselves back to the Byzantine era. Ponder about the sailors calling at the port. Try to listen to the languages of those coming from Egypt, Phoenicia, the Black Sea coasts, and Venice. If you make an effort, maybe you can hear their footsteps.

Ahıirkapi

Now, turn into the narrow street next to the café. Continue walking, greeting the old women sitting in front of doors, passing by charming guesthouses, some resembling a theatrical set, and others restored and offered for tourism. Observe the front parts of windows adorned with ros