To The City: Life and Death Along the Ancient Walls of Istanbul

In "To the City," Alexander Christie-Miller provides a historical and contemporary exploration of Istanbul, highlighting its challenges and resilience. The book combines the stories of those living around the city's Byzantine-era fortifications with the story of Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II's siege and capture in 1453, reflecting the country's tumultuous recent past and its attempt to transform itself.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2024
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

A captivating journey through one of the world's great cities, this book blends historical insights with contemporary perspectives, offering a profound understanding of Istanbul from one of the most perceptive observers of its politics.

Written by Peter Frankopan, "A Love Letter to This Ancient Capital" is a heartfelt tribute to the city that has stood the test of time. As Alexander Christie-Miller explores the crumbling defensive walls of Istanbul, he discovers a rich tapestry of the country's history, a reflection of its present, and a glimpse into its future.

Positioned at the crossroads of two seas and two continents, Istanbul faces the most pressing challenges of our time. Environmental degradation, rampant development, and increasing authoritarianism are straining the very fabric of society, making it a poignant symbol of the precipitous moment civilizations around the world are confronting.

Within the confines of its decaying Byzantine-era fortifications, Christie-Miller encounters individuals who are grappling with the imminent crisis and fighting back, often triumphing against all odds. Through their stories, "To the City" seamlessly weaves two narratives: the tumultuous recent past of Turkey, told through the lives of those who live around the walls, and the historical event of Ottoman Sultan Mehmet II's siege and capture of the city in 1453, which still looms large in Turkish politics today, as President Recep Tayyip Erdogan evokes its memory as part of his efforts to shape the country's destiny in an echo of its imperial past.

This book is a profound meditation on the soul of Istanbul, celebrating its resilience and fortitude. Join Christie-Miller on this captivating journey as he unveils the dangers, beauty, and hope that permeate this remarkable city.

Crafted with exquisite writing and nuanced analysis, "To the City" offers a beautifully written exploration of a city whose story is often told in binary terms. Louise Callaghan, Turkey and Middle East Correspondent, praises Christie-Miller's work for its ability to bridge the gap between past and present, providing a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of this captivating metropolis.

Weight: 676g
Dimension: 164 x 244 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008416041