From many places in Constantinople, you can see almost the entire city. Few cities in the world offer such a wide view from a single point. If you stand on the bridge across the Golden Horn, you can see the homes of two-thirds of the population spread out in front of you.
However, the view can feel monotonous. The buildings all look quite similar, with very little difference in style or design. After a while, the eye grows tired. Thankfully, the tall minarets and towers scattered across the city provide a welcome change and add beauty to the scene Why Buildings in Constantinople Are Poorly Made.
Buildings That Stand Out
Some structures are very noticeable and stand out clearly in the city. These include the embassies of Russia, Germany, and other European countries located in Galata. On the Stamboul side, the important government buildings are easy to recognize.
The largest and most visible buildings, however, are the army barracks. These are used by the Sultan’s soldiers and can be seen from many parts of the city.
A City Lacking Public Spaces
One major problem with Constantinople is the lack of public spaces. There are no parks where people can relax, no promenades for walking, and very few theaters or entertainment venues. There is only one small theater, and it is not very important.
The only public entertainment available for most people are cheap vaudeville shows, which are low in quality and meant for the lower class Ephesus Day Tours.
Streets That Follow Goat Trails
The streets of Constantinople are a challenge. They are narrow, crooked, and steep, winding up the hills like a snake. It seems they were originally based on goat paths, not designed by any proper city planner. Unlike buffalo, goats are terrible engineers.
There are a few straight streets, but they are so steep that it’s impossible to pull loads up them. Many streets are nothing more than stairways, with small shops lining each side.
When the city was built, there was no grading or leveling of the land. The builders left the natural landscape as it was. While this makes the city look picturesque, it also limits business and transportation.
Horses and Transport
Because the streets are too narrow, too steep, and the pavement too rough, horses and carts are almost useless for moving goods. This makes transportation in the city difficult and old-fashioned.
