Dardanelles and Bosphorus. The Turkish Straits of Today
Dardanelles and Bosphorus are probably the most emblematic straits in the world. These two narrow and winding waterways, together with the Sea of Marmora lying between them, link the Black Sea with the Mediterranean Basin, which have witnessed numerous conflicts throughout history. In recent years, they have experienced a sharp increase in maritime traffic, which is a threat to waterside residents and the natural environment. This has led to a gradual dispersion of Istanbul’s harbour plants and facilities. The rural environment of Dardanelles is in sharp contrast to the very densely urbanized Bosphorus, the hub of a metropolis with 10 million people, confronted with a chaotic urbanization process and intense intra-urban traffic. The Turkish Straits contribute to Istanbul’s vantage point in the region of the Black Sea, which is today challenged by Turkey’s new commitment to openness to the Mediterranean Basin as a venue for increasing trade with the European Union.