5 Fun Facts About Istanbul

Istanbul is a city of contrasts and surprises, where history and modernity, and also two continents, collide. Here are 5 fun facts about Istanbul.

1. Istanbul is located further north than New York City

Many people are surprised to learn that Istanbul is located further north than New York City. While New York City lies at a latitude of approximately 40.7°N, Istanbul is situated at around 41.0°N. This places Istanbul slightly farther north despite being commonly associated with a warmer climate due to its Mediterranean influences. In contrast, New York City experiences a mix of climates influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, which often brings colder winters and hotter summers compared to Istanbul. This geographical fact highlights how latitude alone doesn’t always dictate a region’s climate, as other factors such as ocean currents, elevation, and local geography play significant roles.

2. Istanbul is rainier than London

While London is often stereotyped as a rainy city, Istanbul actually receives more precipitation on average. Istanbul experiences around 800 millimeters (31 inches) of rainfall annually, which is higher than London’s average of 615 millimeters (24 inches). However, the perception of London as a rainy city arises from the frequency of its rains, which occur regularly throughout the year, even in summer. In contrast, Istanbul’s precipitation varies considerably between years and districts, often arriving in heavier but less frequent downpours. This contrast highlights the differences in rainfall patterns between the two cities.

Fun facts about Istanbul: Uskudar after a heavy rain.
While London is known for frequent light rains, Istanbul actually receives more annual precipitation – around 800 mm (31 inches) compared to London’s 615 mm (24 inches). However, Istanbul’s rainfall often comes in heavier but less frequent downpours, as seen here in Üsküdar, where heavy rain floods the streets, blending sea and land into one dramatic scene.

3. Istanbul is the Snowiest City in the Mediterranean Basin

Istanbul is surprisingly the snowiest city in the Mediterranean Basin, receiving more snow than cities like Barcelona, Palma, and Valencia. This distinction is due to Istanbul’s unique geography. Its hills and valleys create microclimates, resulting in significant variations in both rainfall and snowfall across different parts of the city. While Istanbul doesn’t directly border the Mediterranean Sea, the Sea of Marmara -on which the city sits- is technically an extension of the Mediterranean, connecting it to the broader basin. This geological nuance explains why Istanbul is often included in comparisons of Mediterranean cities.

Fun facts about Istanbul: Istiklal Avenue under a blanket of snow
Istiklal Avenue under a blanket of snow, with the iconic nostalgic tram gliding through the wintry scene. Istanbul is surprisingly the snowiest city in the Mediterranean Basin, receiving more snow than cities like Barcelona, Palma, and Valencia.

4. There’s a forest called Belgrad Forest, two villages called Arnavutköy (Albanian Village), and a village named Polonezköy (Polish Village) in Istanbul

stanbul is a city of contrasts, not only in its architecture and geography but also in its cultural and natural landmarks. Among its many wonders are a forest and villages with fascinating histories that reflect Istanbul’s role as a melting pot of cultures. These include Belgrad Forest, Arnavutköy (meaning “Albanian Village”), and Polonezköy (Polish Village). Each of these places adds a unique dimension to Istanbul’s already diverse landscape.

Belgrad Forest (Belgrade Forest), located on the European side of Istanbul, is one of the city’s most beloved green spaces. Spanning approximately 5,000 hectares, it serves as a natural retreat for Istanbulites looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Its name is rooted in history, as it is believed to be named after the Serbian settlers who were relocated to Istanbul by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent following his conquest of Belgrade in the 16th century. Today, the forest is a haven for hiking, picnicking, and exploring the city’s biodiversity.

Topuzlu Bendi, Belgrade Forest, Istanbul (June 2021)
Topuzlu Dam in Belgrad Forest (also known as Bahçeköy Dam or Mahmud I Dam) is estimated to have been built in 1750. It’s the closest dam to my house-just a 5-minute walk away.

The city also boasts two villages named Arnavutköy, which translates to “Albanian Village.” The first is a charming neighborhood on the Bosphorus European shore, known for its wooden mansions, fish restaurants, and cobblestone streets. The second, located further inland, close to Istanbul Airport, is a modern district. Both names reflect Istanbul’s historic connection to Albanian communities, many of whom settled in the city during the Ottoman era.

Polonezköy, on the other hand, is a small village with a distinct European charm. Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, it was founded in the 19th century by Polish exiles fleeing political upheaval. The village still maintains its Polish identity, with traditional architecture, festivals, and even a museum dedicated to its history (Zofia Rizi Memorial House). Polonezköy offers insight into a unique chapter of Istanbul’s multicultural past while providing a serene escape from the crowded city.

5. Thousands of green parrots thrive in Istanbul

The thousands of green parrots, or rose-ringed parakeets (Psittacula krameri), thriving in Istanbul have become an iconic part of the city’s urban wildlife. There are a lot of them where I Iive, in Bahçeköy (near Belgrad Forest).

While their vibrant presence is undeniable, their origin is shrouded in fascinating theories.

One widely accepted story suggests that these parrots escaped from pet owners or zoos, while another claims they were accidentally released during the 1990s when a shipping container carrying the birds broke open in Istanbul. However, additional theories offer alternative explanations. According to one, these parakeets began to populate Turkey after being brought to Istanbul by animal sellers in 1997. It is said that around 200 parakeets escaped their cages at Istanbul’s Atatürk International Airport, starting a breeding population in the wild.

Green parrots in İstanbul

Another theory claims that the birds were brought into Turkey illegally. When officials tried to inspect the cages, the smugglers allegedly opened them to release the parrots, avoiding legal penalties (ceza almamak için). This impromptu release inadvertently introduced the species to Istanbul’s ecosystem.

Despite their non-native status, these parrots have adapted remarkably well to Istanbul’s environment. The city’s mild winters, abundance of trees, and food sources allow them to thrive. However, while many residents enjoy their colorful addition to the urban landscape, concerns remain about their impact on native bird species due to competition for food and nesting sites. Regardless of their origins, the green parrots of Istanbul are now a vibrant part of the city’s ever-evolving story.

Sources

Özgür Nevres
Özgür Nevres

I am a software developer and a science enthusiast. I was graduated from the Istanbul Technical University (ITU), Computer Engineering. I write about the city of Istanbul on this website. I live in Istanbul since 1992. I am also an animal lover! I take care of stray cats & dogs. This website's all income goes directly to our furry friends. Please consider supporting me on Patreon [by clicking here] or on Buy Me A Coffee (Of course, you won't buy me a coffee, you will buy food for stray animals!), so I can help more animals!

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