Istanbul History information Istanbul’s rich history is a
product of layer upon layer of civilizations and it’s of little
wonder that this strategically important and majestic city has
been so bitterly contested since its existence. Istanbul served
as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires and
has been witness to several invasions by foreign forces. All of
these influences have helped add to the archaeological,
architectural and cultural diversity in this colossal
metropolis. Istanbul’s position over two continents continue to
make it as unique as it is mysterious. The origins of Istanbul
are under some dispute. Neolithic sites dating to an incredible
7000BC were recently discovered, while evidence of human
settlement from the Copper and Bronze Ages has also been found.
The most commonly accepted legend relating to the foundation of
Istanbul centres around the 7th century BC, when Greek colonists
led by King Byzas established a colony in Chalcedon (modern day
Kadikoy, on the Asian side of the