Walking through the streets of Istanbul, what I experienced was a mixture of sensations. Its buildings, imposing and majestic, reflect a monumental past, transporting us from the ancient Roman Empire to the age of the sultans. Yet the aspect that struck me most was the human one: the almost constant presence of people in the streets, occupying and bringing life to the urban space; the city’s strong connection with art, where paintings, tapestries, and reading seem to pulse through the countless markets; and the religiosity, ever present in daily life, surrounding it with an almost mystical atmosphere through the daily calls to prayer. Finally, there is the connection with animals: it is impossible not to notice the remarkable feline presence, all are very cared for, as if by a pact in which everyone is responsible for their well-being. Traveling to Istanbul was not merely about getting to know a new capital or a new country, but about immersing myself in a new culture, in which the human aspect took center stage and brought me closer to what makes us human.
This project is among the finalists of the Travel Awards 2026.
