Constantinople, now known as Istanbul, was a pivotal city in history, serving as the capital of both the Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Empire. Founded by Emperor Constantine the Great in 330 AD, it became a center of trade, culture, and religion, bridging Europe and Asia. The city's strategic location made it a vital hub for commerce and military endeavors. Its rich history is marked by significant events, including the fall of Constantinople in 1453, which led to the rise of the Ottoman Empire and transformed the city into a major Islamic center.