In March an intrepid team traveled to Istanbul to retrace Evliya’s steps and learn more about what it was like to be a 17th century adventurer in Evliya’s home city.
Our magnificent host, Caroline Finkel, took us on a tour of Ottoman Istanbul, uncovering the historical backbone of the city. As she led us through the mosques, Topkapi Palace, the spice market and more, we began to hear the echoes of a shared history, of Lady Montagu’s fascination with the lives of Ottoman women, to gain a sense of what Thomas Dallam must have felt when he arrived at the city after a long journey at sea.
Emma and Ben took many beautiful photos, Richard was inspired with more ideas for the virtual manifestation of the exhibition, and Suki immersed herself in the city in all its full historical glory in preparation for creating the film.
Suki returned to Istanbul a week later and spent many hours in Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia, capturing stunning footage and haunting sounds.