The rooftops of Istanbul are the stronghold of the city’s pigeon fanciers.
Keeping pigeons is an incredibly popular pastime for Istanbulites; they say it is highly addictive. In this vast and busy city with its narrow streets and high population (fifth largest within city limit according to some sources) , it can be hard to get some peace and quiet.
Up on the rooftops, however, it’s a different matter – no crowds, great views and colourful rooftops. This is where the city’s pigeon enthusiasts find the space to indulge their passion. They will spend a considerable amount of time each day in their rooftop haven, feeding, tending to and flying their beloved birds. With extremes of heat and cold here, and even the threat of theft of what can be very valuable birds, they need to be constantly vigilant. This popular pastime sees many, often over-subscribed, competitions throughout the year and a successful bird can be worth many, many Turkish lira.
Copyright Debbie Smyth, 24 May 2015
Travel with Intent 
Love the view out over the rooftops – never knew that keeping pigeons was such a popular thing to do in Istanbul.
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Nor me, until I saw this.
On Sun, Jun 7, 2015 at 10:59 AM, Travel with Intent wrote:
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Gorgeous view out over the rooftops
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Fabulous shot and such great information, I had no idea x
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What a great scene you have. The pigeons make it so much more urban.
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What a stunning cityscape spread out in front of you #bwphotoproject
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Istanbul is a wonderful city and great that you had a guide to show you the hidden treasures. A wonderful picture full of life.
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Interesting perspective on life! Tom The Backroads Traveller
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Stunning foreground and background =) #bwphotoproject
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Istanbul is an interesting city. I didn’t know about the pigeons.
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It’s a bit like having an allotment in England. People are very resourceful and always find a way to make the most of their environment.
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How interesting. I never would have known that pigeons would be considered valuable. I haven’t travelled there yet but how did you discover this? And find the rooftop where they were? Thanks for sharing, Cheryl
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I booked a guide – I’ll be posting about him soon – I had a great afternoon.
On Sun, May 24, 2015 at 2:36 PM, Travel with Intent wrote:
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Great. I know I will be there in the next year or so, so I would love to know more.
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I’ll definitely be writing more soon 🙂
Sent from my iPhone
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I wonder what the rooftop on which you were standing was like 😀 Your friends take you to the most amazing places. Here in my town you don’t have to go up so high to enjoy the company of pigeons 😉
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