Bosphorus Strait, which is also called the Strait of Istanbul is located in the North Western part of Turkey and is a connection between Marmara sea and the Black sea. It is a very narrow space surrounded by Turkey and it's one of the largest financial centers, Istanbul. This strait holds a very small place but it has a great significance in marine life as it connects two different water bodies. It has a length of 19 miles and a depth of 110 m. This strait has some important things to know regarding its history, geography and other important aspects. Some of them are discussed below-
The history behind the name
The nameBosphorus comes from the Greek term ‘Bosporus’ which means ‘Cattle strait’ or the ‘Cattle passage’ (the term Bos means Cattle and Porosmeans passage). The name contains a mythological story which is of a lo who was transformed into a cow and was cursed to wander the earth and cross Bosphorus in this form until she meets Prometheus who will give her the information that she will again be a woman by Zeus. From then, the name was Bosphorus.
Busy waterway
As we all know that Bosphorus is a connection between Marmara Sea and the Black Sea. And further it is connected withMediterranean sea via the Dardanelle which is directly connected with Atlantic Ocean though the Gibraltar strait. It also connects Indian Ocean via Suez Canal which is located in the Egypt. Therefore, its economic importance can easily be understood by these facts. In Spite of its narrowness at some points, so many large business ships including yachts and fishing boats use this route which marks its importance.
Sightseeing at Bosphorus
There are so many sea rides which you can avail from the coasts of Bosphorus. Rides of different rates can be found according to your preference. The most beautiful tourist attraction is the 620 waterfront houses which were built in the Ottoman Empire. There are also some public ferries and sea busses which are available to take you around the city. There you can enjoy the actual beauty of this coastal city.
However, the Ottoman architecture of the mansions, medieval history, modern bridges, tunnels and railways are some of the important facts which significantly increase its importance in the world.What’s your opinion about Bosphorus?
