The celebration of “Conquest and Establishment” carried out in Istanbul University

The celebration for the 563rd year of the Conquest of Constantinople and the Establishment of Istanbul University took place in the front garden of rectorate building of Istanbul University on 31st May 2016.

“Conquest and Establishment Celebration” started with the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality City Orchestra Janissary Band’s 20-minute show. The program continued with standing in silence and the Turkish National Anthem. Kadir Topbaş who could not make it to the celebration sent a telegram and congratulated the establishment of Istanbul University and the Conquest of Constantinople.

“The Conquest of Constantinople is an operation of civilization”

Speaking in the “Conquest and Establishment Celebration” Rector Prof. Dr. Mahmut Ak mentioned the importance of understanding the real meaning of the conquest, and he said “Mehmed The Conquerer banned people from walking around the city carrying their guns in order to continue the usual social life in the city. He ensured security for public and their properties. He turned the city into an active and lively place and revive the commercial activities.”

Indicating that Mehmed The Conquerer always pointed forward, Rector Prof. Dr. Mahmut Ak said “This is not just a military operation. This is also an operaion of civilization. Today in Istanbul, there are lots of developments the rest of the world look up to. This nation has always been loyal to this gift and moved the flag further.”. Rector Prof. Dr. Mahmut Ak ended his speech by thanking those who contributed to the “Conquest and Establishment Celebration”.

“Istanbul is the center of Art and Civilization”

Giving a speech after Rector Prof. Dr. Mahmut Ak, and pointing out that Istanbul is a special city all Turkish people wholeheartedly love, Director of IU Student Culture Center Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdulkadir Emeksiz said “Istanbul is the center of art and civilization. This city attracted people from every nation and every culture in each period. Mehmed The Conqueror started to prepare for this job at an early age.” Later on, indicating that Istanbul University is the first university to use the glorious name of ‘Istanbul’ in its name, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Emeksiz ended his speech saying “Happy Day of Conquest of Istanbul and Establishment of Istanbul University”.

After the speeches were made, “Conquest and Establishment Celebration” continued with Mustafa Ceceli concert. Rector Prof. Dr. Mahmut Ak presented Mustafa Ceceli with a Chinese porcelain that depicts the halls located in the Istanbul University Rectorate building.

“Conquest and Establishment Celebration” ended with Mustafa Ceceli concert.

Translated by: Eda Aydemir

IU Department of Press and Public Relations