View from the Hagia Sophia Mosque, (originally constructed as a cathedral in 537 AD), in Europe, towards the Camlica mosque(constructed 2019), in Asia. Istanbul, straddling Europe and Asia, has endured centuries of geopolitical change as a vital crossroads between East and West. Originally Byzantium, then Constantinople, it was the heart of empires—Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman—each leaving a lasting mark on its culture and architecture. Its strategic location made it a focal point for trade, religion, and military conquest. Despite invasions, political upheavals, and modern challenges, Istanbul has maintained its unique identity, blending diverse cultures and traditions. Today, it remains a vibrant metropolis, symbolizing resilience and the enduring exchange between civilizations.