Anniversary of Istanbul’s conquest celebrated with light, laser show

The 558th anniversary of Istanbul’s conquest was celebrated with a laser, light and water show in the Golden Horn on Sunday.

The celebration started with voice and light shows before continuing with a movie, “The Conquest of Istanbul,” which was projected on a water curtain. The show took place on a platform made especially for the conquest celebration in Balat. The show included Mehter musicians from Janissary bands re-enacting the conquest and Mehmed the Conqueror’s entrance into the city.

The finale of the event was organized with a firework, light and laser show. Speaking before the show, Istanbul Mayor Kadir Topbaş said: “Istanbul means unity and piece. This city gathers different cultures and different religions.”

Istanbul has been a site of peace and tranquility and known to the world as such since Sultan Mehmed conquered the city more than five-and-a-half centuries ago, Topbaş said during the ceremony.

Noting that the 1453 History Museum at the Topkapı City Park had important artifacts, Topbaş said the museum was one of the most developed museum in terms of technology.

It is possible to witness the life from older history, said Topbaş. “Approximately 1 million people visit the museum in one year.”

via Anniversary of Istanbul’s conquest celebrated with light, laser show – Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review.