It is going to be 200 years since Greece began its revolution to achieve independence from the Ottoman Empire. The Greek War of independence would see many atrocities done by the Turks in order to maintain their control of this part of their empire. The Greek people have suffered greatly at their hands, and it is not surprising to me that they refuse to call the queen of cities, by the modern name, Istanbul. There are many reasons why Greeks have such animosity to Turkey but calling the great capital of their once powerful Byzantine Empire, Constantinople, shows how history is still very much alive for Greeks.
According to an article written by GreekReporter.com, Erdogan, the leader of Turkey has stated that Istanbul shall remain the name of the capital. Indeed, I am not surprised by this, considering that he has been very much focused upon the idea of Turkey returning back to its roots as a strong and powerful country. However, he must understand the Greeks are still a very proud people who will defend their traditions and customs. Istanbul actually means “into the city” so Greeks have no problem with calling Constantinople that on semantic reasons. For many years, Greeks who lived in Constantinople, simply called it the city. When going into the city, the name Istanbul would be used. It was pronounced as Is-tin-poli. However, the pain and hurt that has resulted from the Greek Revolution has made them decide they need to honor their ancestors by calling it by it’s original name, Constantinople.
Byzantine-Empire.com 