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They're For the Birds See those pairs of little "houses" on both sides of the window? They're for the birds! It was not at all unusual for architects during the Ottoman Empire to include shelter for our Feathered Friends in their great buildings. This building at the northern end of Istiklal Caddesi happens to be the taksim, or division-point, in Beyoglu's water distribution system. Commissioned by Sultan Mahmut I and finished in 1732, it has given its name to Taksim Square. (The square used to be filled by a reservoir.) Islam requires merciful treatment of all animals because they, too, have immortal souls. For another merciful bird moment in Istanbul, see For the Birds in Funny Stuff.
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