ISTANBUL

Key Events

324 CE CONSTANTINOPLE FOUNDED

Constantine selects Byzantium as the capital of his Roman Empire, renaming it Constantinople in his honour. He rebuilds the city to four-times its original size. He also heavily fortifies his new capital, adding walls that surround it.

1204 CRUSADERS SACK CONSTANTINOPLE

During the Fourth Crusade, the Christian Crusaders of the West attack and raid the city. Many artworks of historic and cultural importance are lost or destroyed during the siege. Constantinople is divided among various powers following the attack.

1453 FALL OF CONSTANTINOPLE

Sultan Mehmed II captures the city following a 55-day siege. Constantine XI is killed during the onslaught, effectively ending the Byzantium Empire. Following this victory, Mehmed II relocates his capital and the city is renamed Istanbul.