Ortakoy

Ortakoy (literally Middle Village in Turkish) is a neighbourhood, formerly a small village, within the Besiktas district of Istanbul, located in the middle of the European bank of the Bosphorus.

Ortakoy was very important district in the Ottoman time for the Sultans.Many palaces were built in Ortakoy,but after consecutive fires during history the district lost its importance.By the time it has gained its old importance according to its situation near by Bosphorus.

Ortakoy is a cosmopolitan area, with communities of Turks, Greeks, Armenians and Jews. The neighbourhood hosts many different religious (Muslim, Jewish, Orthodox, and other Christian) structures. It is also a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with its art galleries, night clubs, cafés, bars, and restaurants.The Neo-Baroque style Ortakoy Mosque is a beautifully ornate structure, right on the jetty of Ortakoy, bordering the waters of the Bosphorus, and thus highly visible from the passing boats.

The European pylon of the Bosphorus Bridge, one of the two bridges that connect the European and Asian banks of Istanbul, is also situated in this neighbourhood.

Ortakoy has had an important place in the daily life of the Istanbul during both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. Turks, Jews, Greeks and Armenians still live there peacefully, side by side. In the 16th century, the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent encouraged the Turks to move to Ortakoy and live there, which marked the beginning of the Turkish presence in the neighbourhood. Ciragan Palace and Ortakoy mosque are some of the most important buildings in Ortakoy.

Source:http://en.wikipedia.orghttp://www.bigglook.com/biggistanbul