ERT1 presents ‘Personal Passages’ exploring Istanbul’s history

The ERT1 program ‘Personal Passages’ with Elena Katritsi, titled ‘In the Waters of the Bosphorus’, explores the historical memory and cultural soul of Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople and Konstantiniye.

The episode examines various historical landmarks and figures, including the Pera Palace hotel, which was acquired by Greek businessman Prodromos Bodossakis-Athanasiades in 1918. The program features insights from renowned author and composer Zülfü Livaneli regarding the role of memory in national identity, as well as the works of Ahmet Ümit, who explores Turkish social contradictions through crime fiction set in the Tarlabaşı district.

Additionally, the journey covers the Phanar district, the heart of Orthodoxy, and the legacy of great benefactors. It includes a look at the history of Kostas Pilavakis, a descendant of the prominent banker Georgios Zarifis, and visits the Zarifis mansion in the Galata district to discuss the future of the Istos publishing house.