How many names can a single city hold before it becomes the heart of the world? Throughout its two-thousand-year history, Istanbul has been known as Byzantion, Nea Roma, Tsarigrad, and Dersaâdet—the "Gate of Felicity." In Chronicles of Istanbul, İlber Ortaylı explores the vast historical layers of this unique metropolis, declaring that while Istanbul is the property of the Turks and the second capital of Turkey, it remains a priceless treasure for all of humanity.

Walking the streets he loves, Ortaylı demonstrates the true art of urban exploration. He argues that loving a city is not about mere praise, but about accepting a responsibility that weighs heavily on one's shoulders. From the silence of ancient cemeteries and the shelves of historic libraries to the grandeur of imperial palaces and the bustling energy of traditional bazaars, he guides the reader through a landscape where domes, minarets, and waterfront mansions all find new meaning.

Describing the city as "a book whose pages never end and a painting whose view one can never tire of," Ortaylı examines Istanbul's unique geography, linguistic heritage, culinary culture, and social traditions. Chronicles of Istanbul is an extraordinary guide for those who are curious about every corner of this legendary city, as well as for those who live within its walls but have yet to truly discover its soul.