I think we’ve all seen — and marveled — at shots of Istanbul along the Bosphorous, evoking both the complex history of the modern mega-city, its vital role as a sea trade connector between the Mediterranean and the Aegean, as well as its current energy as a commercial hub. I think this one here by photographer Shahriar Etminani is one of the best I’ve ever seen, You can see more of his photos here.
And if you are looking for a good read on Istanbul, check out Istanbul: Memories and the City, by Orhan Pamuk.