Lecture
ISTANBUL: THE LAYERED CITY AND ITS HIDDEN GEMS
by ŞERİF YENEN
Acclaimed tour guide, writer, speaker, and filmmaker
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2026 | 2:00 pm
Goethe-Institut Boston
170 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02116
In this richly illustrated presentation, Şerif Yenen explores İstanbul as a city shaped by successive layers of history, culture and daily life. Moving beyond the familiar landmarks, he traces the city from its prehistoric beginnings through Byzantine Constantinople, the Ottoman capital and the modern metropolis, revealing how these different worlds continue to coexist in its monuments, neighbourhoods, traditions and urban landscape.
Drawing on nearly four decades of experience interpreting İstanbul, Yenen also turns to the city’s lesser-known corners, hidden remains, cultural practices, flavours and living communities. The presentation offers a deeper way of understanding İstanbul: not as a collection of individual sights, but as a layered civilisation whose past remains visible, tangible and very much alive in the present.
ŞERİF YENEN
Şerif Yenen is a highly acclaimed tour guide, travel agent, guidebook writer, international speaker-lecturer, instructor and travel destinations consultant. As a trailblazer in the Turkish travel industry, he authored the renowned book “Turkish Odyssey” in English in addition to numerous other guidebooks. His articles and columns have been published in international magazines and national newspapers.
He has also made a mark as a producer, director, and writer of the acclaimed travel documentary “Istanbul Unveiled”, which has received eight international awards.
A distinguished Smithsonian lecturer, has delivered numerous captivating presentations at the Smithsonian Institution. His areas of expertise include the ancient civilizations of Anatolia, Turkish history, culture, and travel.
Over the years, he provided guiding services to dignitaries and celebrities including Pope Benedict XVI, Oprah Winfrey, Dr. George Friedman, Matt Lauer, Lester Holt, and many others.
Continuing his passion for providing signature tours with a focus on culture, history, and culinary experiences, Serif also holds a membership in Chaine des Rotisseurs, showcasing his passion for food.
In addition to his exceptional work in the travel industry, Serif actively shares his knowledge and experiences through his vibrant YouTube channel, which features captivating videos on various interesting topics: youtube.com/SerifYenen and on his website: https://serifyenen.com
Through his diverse range of talents and accomplishments, Serif continues to share his deep-rooted passion for Türkiye’s culture, history, and travel experiences with a global audience, leaving a lasting impact in the realm of travel literature and media.
