Istanbul's 1600-Year-Old Art Heritage on Display in London
Works spanning the Byzantine and Ottoman periods are preparing to meet art lovers at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Istanbul's deep-rooted 1600-year history of serving as the capital for both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires will meet an international audience through a comprehensive exhibition held at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Exhibition Date and Opening Details
The special exhibition titled Constantinople to Istanbul: One City, Two Empires will officially open its doors to the public on November 7, 2026, at the V&A South Kensington center.
Supporters and Scope of Works
Sponsored primarily by Koç Holding, the organization will feature more than 200 distinguished works dating from AD 330 to 1922.
Focus Points of the Exhibition
Being held on this scale for the first time in the UK, the event will examine the city's profound impact on art, architecture, and design within the Mediterranean world and beyond.
Main Sections and Structure
Welcoming visitors, the exhibition will consist of four main thematic sections: Grand Beginnings, Heaven and Earth, Power and Reach, and Life in the City.
Highlighted Byzantine Works
Among the rich selection are important Byzantine artifacts such as the 10th-century Veroli Casket and the 11th-century Enkolpion of Constantinos.
Ottoman Period Works
Many precious pieces representing the Ottoman heritage, such as an 18th-century tambour and ceremonial scroll, along with a 19th-century coffee pot, will be exhibited.
Osman Hamdi Bey Painting
Among the works in the collection, Osman Hamdi Bey's famous 1887 painting titled Ladies Taking a Walk will also draw significant attention.
Visiting Schedule
This eagerly anticipated comprehensive exhibition can be visited at V&A South Kensington between November 7, 2026, and May 9, 2027.