The fall on May 29th 1453 was a momentous historical event: A turning point, if you will. The balance of power had shifted away from Europe. The future of Christian Europe was uncertain.
Numerous invasions of Constantinople had been attempted in prior centuries but were repulsed: It’s as if this great city-which was both the second Jerusalem and the second Rome - was a prize – desired by would be conquerors for recognition and glory. The Ottoman siege succeeded primarily because of a new technological innovation in warfare: The use of massive cannons – which knocked down the city’s protective ring of walls.
In the 16th century a Frenchmen, Pierre Gilles wrote: “While other cities are mortal, this one will remain as long as there are men on earth.”
Today, Constantinople lives in the hearts of Hellene’s and Philhellenes.
Constantinople evokes emotion within me. There is no logical reason for this. Rather it this: Our essence is a product of our unique experiences in life and the history of the community that we came from. The past is part of us today. Constantinople is part of my past.
I hope that Turkey joins Europe. When this occurs, Istanbul – Constantinople will again rise in prominence and assume its traditional role as a multicultural European capital that unites East and West.
James- Δημήτρios
Saturday January 23, 2010
Toronto Ontario
