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Istanbul

Erdogan’s battle

They are resentful of his overbearing rule, and feel frustrated by the economic reverses which have seen the Turkish lira’s strength reduce from four to the US dollar five years ago to nearly 20 now and inflation soar above 50 per cent in March.

Museum as a signifier

By seeking to change the status of what had originally been the most recognisable symbol of modern Istanbul, a source of wonder and fascination since its sixth-century construction, Erdogan has betrayed his revanchism motivated by a deep-rooted hostility toward the ways of his illustrious predecessor Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.