European Capitals of Culture Program Expands to EU Candidates From 2025

Istanbul, a city straddling Europe and Asia with a population of over 15 million, has undergone a remarkable transformation from a neglected metropolis in the 1990s to a vibrant and livable city today, largely due to improved urban governance by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality and political leadership, including President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan who began his career as Istanbul's mayor. The city's architectural heritage is exemplified by landmarks such as the Dolmabahce Palace, a grand 19th-century Ottoman-European style palace on the Bosphorus, showcasing a blend of Western and Eastern designs. Meanwhile, Turkey's tourism industry faces challenges from recurring wildfires along its Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, which damage infrastructure and natural assets, coupled with inflation and recent earthquakes that have dampened visitor numbers despite hopes for a recovery. Ankara, Turkey's capital, offers cultural and historical attractions including the Beştepe Presidential Complex, which is open to public tours by appointment and features minimalist design and displays celebrating Turkey's heritage. These developments highlight Turkey's dynamic cultural landscape, urban renewal, and ongoing economic and environmental challenges affecting its tourism sector.