The cultural identity of a person's homeland is integral in defining their identity and views. However, the moment they step onto foreign land, they are no longer looking at another culture through a window of their preconceptions—they are able to experience it first-hand. The cultural identity of many cities is highly defined by religion, especially Rome and Istanbul, where the majority of the population follows one religion. Religion influences many aspects of a city’s culture—including art, architecture, and music; it even affects the society, people, and politics. Religion and identity are inexorably linked to one another.
Just by taking a glance out of the window at the city of Rome, we can see the influence of Catholicism on the area. Many churches can be seen studded among the red-brown roof-tiles and rooftop patios. They are highly visible due to the crosses on top. Even just taking a stroll around the block, we may turn the corner to find ourselves staring up a pair of church doors. Inside these churches are beautiful, elaborate, artworks depicting religious scenes and glorifying religious figures. The church ceilings are often lavishly decorated—sometimes coffered and gilded with gold. It is not uncommon to see statues of famous biblical characters carved out of marble and reenacting scenes from the bible. Through the art and architecture of the churches, it is plain to see that Rome is a city that is manifestly attached to its past. This attachment is even more apparent in the construction of the city. Buildings and roads are built on the ancient foundations of the city and most of the buildings are old buildings restored to their original splendor. Romans identify themselves with their past as part of an illustrious ancient city.
In Istanbul, a similar sight is beheld. However, when we look out over the city, instead of churches with the cross, we see huge domes dotting the scenery embellished with a crescent on top. Inside, each mosque is decorated with blue patterned tiles, often containing tulips. Every mosque also has a dome to signify the vaults of the heaven; however, there are no representations of human figures—no glorified depictions of God, because Muslims try to avoid idolatry. These mosques are also accompanied by one or two minarets that stand as tall pillars waiting for the call to prayer to be made. In the past, the muezzin would have to climb the minaret and give the call to prayer; however, nowadays, it is more commonly given over a loud speaker. Istanbul is more accepting of new technology and innovation, integrating it into the existing infrastructure. With its urbanized metropolitan areas, Istanbul is establishing its identity as a progressive city that is part of the modern world.
Despite the similarities in the proliferation of their respective religions in these two cities, Rome and Istanbul are very different in their cultural identities. Rome will live on as the quintessence of its past—the eternal city, while Istanbul will continue grow and expand as a new modernized city.
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