In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, we delve into the rich tradition of fishing in the Bosphorus Sea, a practice that has been integral to Istanbul's culture for centuries. Join host Can Sinan and guest Alp as they explore the history of fishing in the Bosphorus, the seasons that define its rhythm, and the variety of fish that are caught, including bluefish, bonito, and anchovy. Discover how these fish are prepared and served, reflecting the culinary heritage of the region. The discussion also touches on the impact of EU fishing regulations and how they balance the preservation of marine life with the livelihoods of local fishermen. Whether you're a lover of seafood or interested in cultural traditions, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and flavors of Istanbul. Join us as we cast our lines into the Bosphorus and reel in the stories of this vibrant tradition.

"Çamlıca Tower: A Modern Marvel of Istanbul's Skyline and Architectural Innovation" explores the story behind Turkey's tallest structure, which stands as a testament to contemporary architectural brilliance and technological advancement. This episode delves into the unique design of the tower, seamlessly blending modern aesthetics with functional purpose, serving both as a communications hub and a cultural landmark. We discuss the architectural vision that brought this tower to life, highlighting how it elegantly integrates with Istanbul's historical and modern skyline, offering panoramic views of the city. Through interviews with experts, listeners will learn about the tower's advanced engineering, the challenges faced during construction, and its significance in representing Turkey's journey toward modernization. Join us as we journey through the intricate design, cultural impact, and technological wonders of the Çamlıca Tower, shedding light on how it has become an iconic symbol of Istanbul's dynamic transformation.

Welcome back to another episode of Turkish Mosaic! I’m your host, Can Sinan, and today we have Alya returning for an exciting discussion on Turkish miniatures in the 16th century

This episode explores the Greek Orthodox Cathedral's stunning architecture as a unique piece of the Turkish cultural mosaic. While Istanbul is often celebrated for its Ottoman influences, the cathedral reveals a lesser-known layer of Turkish heritage that embraces diversity and coexistence. We'll delve into its Byzantine domes, golden mosaics, and intricate iconography, highlighting how this sacred structure symbolizes the harmony between different religious traditions within Turkey. By tracing the historical journey of the Greek Orthodox community, we uncover how such architectural marvels contribute to the country's multifaceted identity, illustrating that Turkey's cultural richness is not just a blend of traditions but a true mosaic where every piece—like this cathedral—adds depth, beauty, and complexity to the nation's vibrant story

In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, host Can Sinan and guest Alya dive into the captivating myth of Shahmaran, a legendary half-woman, half-snake figure from Turkish, Kurdish, and Persian folklore. Known as the Queen of the Serpents, Shahmaran represents wisdom, healing, and the delicate balance between life and death. We explore her ancient origins, her connection to medicine and transformation, and the enduring relevance of her story in modern times. With the recent resurgence of interest in Shahmaran, particularly through the Netflix series Shahmaran, we discuss why this mythical figure continues to inspire new generations and serve as a symbol of empowerment, especially for women and marginalized communities. Join us as we unravel the layers of this myth and discover the universal themes of sacrifice, wisdom, and resilience that keep Shahmaran's legend alive today.

In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, join host Can Sinan and guest Alya as they explore one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, the Galata Tower. Originally built by the Genoese in 1348, this towering structure has served many roles throughout history—from a watchtower to a prison, and later as a fire-watch tower during the Ottoman era. Discover the fascinating stories behind its legendary intercontinental flight by Hezarfen Ahmed Çelebi and its transformation into a modern museum after the latest renovation in 2020. The Galata Tower’s panoramic observation deck offers stunning 360-degree views of the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, and the entire city skyline. Learn why this historic tower remains one of Istanbul’s most beloved tourist attractions, blending centuries of history with breathtaking views of the modern city.

In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, host Can Sinan welcomes back Mehmet to explore the enchanting world of Laz folklore. Delve into the rich tapestry of stories that have been passed down through generations, reflecting the Laz people's deep connection to nature and their surroundings. From mythical creatures like the giant bird Gveri and the mountain spirits Tsaner to heroic tales filled with moral lessons, Laz folklore offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Black Sea region. This episode also touches on the cultural festivals and efforts to preserve these ancient traditions, showcasing how they continue to enrich the broader Turkish cultural mosaic. Join us as we uncover the wisdom and magic woven into the tales of Laz folklore.

Welcome back to another episode of A Turkish Mosaic, where we explore the fascinating layers of Turkey’s rich cultural and technological landscape. Today, we’re turning our gaze skyward to discuss a sector where Turkey has truly taken off—aviation and aerospace. Joining me to dive into this topic is Mert, an expert in aerospace engineering and a keen observer of Turkey’s technological advancements.

In this episode of A Turkish Mosaic, join host Can Sinan and guest Lara as they explore the fascinating history of Dolmabahçe Palace, Istanbul’s largest and most opulent palace on the shores of the Bosphorus. Built in 1856 during the decline of the Ottoman Empire, Dolmabahçe was a symbol of grandeur and power, blending European architectural styles with traditional Ottoman design. Discover how Sultan Abdül Mecit sought to create a modern, lavish residence to impress the world, and learn about the palace’s connection to six Ottoman sultans and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who spent his final days here. Now a museum, Dolmabahçe remains one of Turkey’s most visited landmarks. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about this architectural marvel, this episode will transport you to a bygone era of Ottoman luxury. Tune in and uncover the stories behind this magnificent palace.

Today on "A Turkish Mosaic," we're shining a spotlight on the Laz people, an indigenous community nestled along the Eastern Black Sea coast of Turkey. With roots tracing back to the ancient Colchis civilization, the Laz have maintained a rich cultural heritage that includes their unique language, traditional music, and the energetic Horon dance. Their deep connection to the land is reflected in their agricultural practices, particularly tea and hazelnut farming, and their close ties to the sea. Despite facing challenges in preserving their language and traditions, the Laz people continue to be a vibrant part of Turkey’s cultural mosaic. Let’s discover and discuss the beauty and resilience of the Laz people!