Istanbul as a world city: a cultural perspective

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the process by which Istanbul is transforming into a world city, examining the impact of the recent growth of cultural activities in the city.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focuses on the cultural and creative aspects of Istanbul, with reference to its history, multiculturalism and recent developments in the international cultural arena. Istanbul represents an interesting case to examine the development of a city to achieve world‐class status, despite its historical significance as a center of trade and culture in the ancient world, its current globalization and development are fairly recent.

Findings

Developments in recent years from a cultural, as well as an economic perspective provide some indication that Istanbul is transforming into a world city. However, the ability of the city to influence international cultural circles is limited by the reduced demand for cultural products by residents. Nevertheless, Istanbul's multiculturalism, history and its geographical position are significant advantages.

Originality/value

Little attention has been paid to the relationships between various elements in the development of a world city. From this perspective, the paper discusses the role of culture in positioning Istanbul as a world city, and examines its relationships with commercial activities and influence on tourism, focusing on the synergetic relationship between these elements.

Citation

Alvarez, M.D. and Yarcan, Ş. (2010), "Istanbul as a world city: a cultural perspective", International Journal of Culture, Tourism and Hospitality Research, Vol. 4 No. 3, pp. 266-276. https://doi.org/10.1108/17506181011067646