BOSPHORUS STRAIT Meaning and
Definition
-
The Bosphorus strait is a narrow and winding waterway located in Turkey that connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara, dividing Istanbul into its European and Asian sides. It stretches approximately 17 miles (28 kilometers) long and varies in width from about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) at its broadest point to just 2,450 feet (750 meters) at its narrowest point.
The Bosphorus strait serves as a significant international waterway, facilitating maritime trade and transportation for numerous countries in the region. It holds immense strategic importance due to its location, allowing access and control over the Black Sea, which connects to the Mediterranean Sea and other world oceans. The strait also acts as a natural boundary separating Europe and Asia, making it a symbol of the unique geographical and cultural fusion present in Istanbul.
Its water currents can be intense and require careful navigation, posing challenges for ships passing through. The strait is home to several historical landmarks, including the majestic Bosphorus Bridge and the Ottoman fortress of Rumeli Hisarı, which overlooks the waterway.
The Bosphorus strait has played a vital role in the history of the region, witnessing numerous military conflicts and serving as a natural barrier against invasions throughout centuries. Today, it remains a popular tourist attraction, offering spectacular views of Istanbul's skyline and serving as a symbol of the city's rich heritage and transcontinental identity.
Common Misspellings for BOSPHORUS STRAIT
- vosphorus strait
- nosphorus strait
- hosphorus strait
- gosphorus strait
- bisphorus strait
- bksphorus strait
- blsphorus strait
- bpsphorus strait
- b0sphorus strait
- b9sphorus strait
- boaphorus strait
- bozphorus strait
- boxphorus strait
- bodphorus strait
- boephorus strait
- bowphorus strait
- bosohorus strait
- boslhorus strait
- bos0horus strait
- bospgorus strait
Etymology of BOSPHORUS STRAIT
The word "Bosphorus" originates from the Greek language. In Greek, it is called "Vosporos" (Βόσπορος) which means "ox-ford" or "ox-crossing". This name likely stems from an ancient mythological story. According to the legend, Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, transformed himself into an ox to rescue the princess Europa. He carried her across the sea, which later became known as the Bosphorus Strait. The word "strait" has a Latin origin and is derived from the Latin word "strictus" meaning "narrow" or "tight". It refers to a narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water, such as the Bosphorus Strait connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
