Istanbul

Christmas is not over. At least here in Türkiye, for Orthodox Christians today, Jan. 6, is a big day to celebrate their Christmas Eve, or in other words the Epiphany. Many Orthodox churches in countries like Türkiye, Greece, Russia and Ukraine have not adopted the commonly used Gregorian calendar, which was introduced by Latin Pope Gregory of Rome in 1582.

Thousands of students continue their education in 40 historic edifices in Istanbul that have stood the test of time.

Some over a century old, the schools, repurposed from palaces, mansions, military barracks and religious institutions, continue to shape young minds while preserving their grandeur.

Scores of people have come together in squares and entertainment venues nationwide to joyfully bid farewell to 2024, ushering in the new year with renewed energy and fresh resolutions.

In the capital Ankara, people gathered in and around Kızılay Square, the city's most popular site, welcoming the first minutes of the new year with torches and sky lanterns.

The Istanbul-Sofia Express has provided service to 37,000 passengers as of December 2024, according to Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu.

Praising the line as "Türkiye's iron gateway to Europe," Uraloğlu highlighted its growing popularity among travelers seeking a comfortable and economical travel option between Türkiye and Europe.

Türkiye is all set to usher in the New Year on Dec. 31 with a series of events across urban centers and bustling tourism hubs, under the umbrella of enhanced security measures to ensure public safety.

Agathi Markopoulou felt her first breath of freedom on the morning of December 26.

Navigating Istanbul's narrow and crowded streets, Ahmet brings his motorcycle to a halt, expertly dodging pedestrians and cars. He pulls outside a small warehouse to grab a bag of groceries and a quick puff from his cigarette before he's off again, his next delivery just moments away.

Istanbul has been officially recognized as Türkiye's sole "global city," with five others earmarked for potential global status, according to an assessment by the Industry and Technology Ministry as part of a strategic plan to enhance regional competitiveness and economic integration in the international arena.

Creditor banks have reached an agreement for the restructuring of the debts provided to Galataport İstanbul Liman İşletmeciliği (Galataport) and Doğuş Galataport Gayrimenkul Yatırımları.

Isak Andiç Ermay, the Istanbul-born founder of Mango, has left behind a legacy that intertwines his Turkish roots and entrepreneurial spirit.

Andiç died at 71 in an accident in Montserrat, Spain, after falling approximately 100 meters during a hike with his family. The company confirmed his death on Dec. 14.