Bridging both banks of the shimmering southern Bosphorus or Istanbul Strait, the world’s narrowest strait, Istanbul is the only city on Earth located on two continents – Asia to the east and Europe to the west.
The long and storied past of Istanbul dates as far back as the 7th century B.C., and includes stints as the capital of three successive empires: the East Roman, Byzantine and Imperial Ottoman.
Today, ancient monuments nestle side by side with modern Turkish architecture. From its immense Grand Bazaar to its magnificent museums and churches, Istanbul offers countless sites to behold – and as many experiences to remember. Often called the “hippest city in Europe”, Istanbul’s alluring blend of culture and ambience attracts millions of visitors each year.
Every year Istanbul hosts many prominent culture and arts events. Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts hosts International Istanbul Biennial every year. In 2007 the foundation organizes 10th Biennial from September 8th to November 4th under the curatorship of Mr. Hou Hanru, currently Director of Exhibitions and Public Programs at San Francisco Art Institute. Sakip Sabanci Museum will host "From Louvre to Istanbul" exhibition scheduled to January 2008. More than 200 pieces from Islamic arts collection of the Louvre Museum in Paris will be exhibited in Sakip Sabanci Museum.