The Istanbul Course - Course Overview

The Trigg Foundation offers a dynamic six-week course which introduces students to the many inspiring and fascinating aspects of Turkish culture. This is achieved through a series of lectures and activities, together with the opportunity to experience life in Istanbul at first-hand. The programme is designed to broaden intellectual horizons and increase understanding and awareness of another culture, whilst developing study skills in preparation for university. The course begins in London with an opening reception at Leighton House; this is followed by a number of functions prior to departure for Istanbul. The first week serves as a general introduction to the course. Lectures are held at various London venues, including the Royal Geographical Society. The many subjects covered include Turkish art and architecture, Turkish cinema, cuisine (followed, of course, by a generous tasting of Turkish food), kilims and carpets, Ottoman coffee culture, and, not least, Turkish music Ð both Ottoman and modern pop. Students learn about the political and economic situation in Turkey directly from journalists and diplomats. During this week, they also learn something of the strange, but beautiful, Turkish language. In Istanbul, a typical day might begin with a lecture at the university on one of Sinan's architectural masterpieces followed by a visit to that building. Then, in the early evening, either a language or cookery class and perhaps an evening concert at one of the many beautiful Embassy buildings. Or maybe there will be a fish supper at a famous Turkish footballer's restaurant, tucked away in a nearby fish market. In addition, we have been granted private access to a number of special heritage sites, perhaps the most spectacular being the city's earliest Byzantine church, Aya Irini. Naturally, students are given guidance on how to live in unfamiliar surroundings, for this is a different culture with different social norms. Being polite, for example, is even more important in Turkey than it is in England Ð yet the people seem more relaxed... So many paradoxes to study; so much to learn from this 'city of the world's desire.' <a href="info.html">Click here for details on course fees, accommodation and registration</a>