This city Istanbul, unmatched and priceless it is,
For one of its stones, Persia's realm is a sacrifice.
A unique jewel between two seas, it lies,
If weighed against the world's sun, it justifies.
A mine of blessings, its gem is fortune, bright,
An Irem garden, its roses are honor's height.
Is paradise above or below it, who can say?
Truly, its state and sweet air are heaven's way.
Each garden, a meadow of elegance, delight,
Each corner, a gathering full of grace, bright.
It's unjust to trade it for the world's sight,
Comparing its rose gardens to heaven is not right.
Everyone there finds their desire fulfilled,
Its courtyards are refuges for the hopeful and skilled.
In its markets, knowledge is sold and bought,
Art's bazaar is a mine of wisdom, thought.
Each mosque is a mountain of divine display,
The angels' eyebrows, the prayer niches convey.
Each mosque, a sea of light, so bright,
Its lamps overflow with moon-like light.
Its fountains flow with life-giving streams,
Its hot baths bring joy and health it seems.
All its people are esteemed and refined,
Though some say a bit loveless, unkind.
Now the new, joyous world's elegance is here,
Its qualities deserve a book to make clear.
As its name suggests, it's both fortunate and prosperous.1
In Istanbul, pride and honor are continuous.
Its hills, gardens, palaces seem to be
Filled with joy, pleasure, and gaiety.
Is it possible to count Istanbul's features?
The aim is to try and list some of its leaders.
(...)
Translated by: Mehmet Barın Erturan