Cultural. Educational. Growth.
The Italian presence in Istanbul has ancient origins, reflecting Italy’s artistic, creative, and professional society. By the late Byzantine period in the 1300s, the maritime republics of Genoa and Venice established strong political and commercial ties with the Ottoman Empire, enjoying special privileges.
Many Italians came to Turkey as merchants or skilled artisans, sometimes invited by Ottoman sultans. The most significant migration occurred in the early 19th century during the Kingdom of Italy, when Italians, especially from Austrian-occupied regions, sought refuge in Turkey for economic and political reasons.
Prestigious Italian institutions like the Italian School, Chamber of Commerce, Workers’ Society, Mutual Aid Society, and the Italian Benevolent Society were founded in the mid-19th century. The Circolo Roma and Casa d’Italia followed in the early 20th century. Unlike other countries, the Italian presence in Turkey was not driven by impoverished emigrants but by skilled professionals whose craftsmanship and commercial expertise were highly sought after.
By 1933-1935, the Italian community in Turkey peaked at approximately 30,000 residents but diminished following a Turkish law requiring the repatriation of many foreign artisans. Today, the Italian community, comprising around 3,000 people (with about 2,400 in Istanbul), continues to thrive as traders, industrialists, executives, and educators. They remain well-integrated and respected in Turkey, a country that has consistently welcomed Italians with warmth and recognition.