Episodes
| Episode | First Broadcast | Repeated | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 20110208 | 20110906 (R4) | Flowing through the heart of Istanbul, in Turkey, the Bosphorus has been a flash point between cultures, religions and imperial powers for thousands of years; from the Roman and Byzantine Empires, to the clash between Islam and Christianity and the Cold War between the super powers of the East and West. The Bosphorus has a rich and bloody history that's inspired poets, writers and artists from around the world. Edward Stourton looks at that rich history and how the Bosphorus works today. 50,000 vessels make their way through the narrow straits every year - everything from small fishing boats to giant oil and gas tankers battles through the treacherous currents making it one of the busiest and most dangerous international waterways in the world. Producer: Phil Pegum. Edward Stourton explores the life and history of the Bosphorus, Istanbul. |
| 02 | 20110215 | 20110913 (R4) | For thousands of years travellers have made their way to Istanbul, drawn by tales of its cosmopolitan and exotic delights. The city's unique culture has grown out of its place at the heart of three empires - the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman - and the strategic importance of the Bosphorus that flows through it. Despite waves of conquest Istanbul has always managed to retain a diverse religious mix, until relatively recently that is, as Edward Stourton discovers on the latest of his journeys along The Bosphorus. Producer: Phil Pegum. Edward Stourton explores the life and history of the Bosphorus, Istanbul. |
| 03 | 20110222 | 20110920 (R4) | Istanbul is, famously, the only city in the world to straddle two continents - Europe and Asia. The dividing line is the Bosphorus and Edward Stourton has been exploring the life and rich history of this 19 mile long stretch of water. The Bosphorus gives Istanbul its unique character, but, as he discovers in this, the last of the series, having a foot in both Europe and Asia forces the people who live there to ask themselves interesting questions about their identity and the future of Turkey. Producer: Phil Pegum. Having a foot in both Europe and Asia forces the inhabitants to question their identity. Edward Stourton explores the life and history of the Bosphorus |