The magical city of Istanbul connects the east and the west and has been the centre of a number of empires over the centuries, the most powerful of which were the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Both these kingdoms adorned the city with magnificently decorated churches, palaces and mosques. With its spectacular skyline, Istanbul still has many physical reminders of its various rulers. On your next trip to Istanbul don’t miss these iconic sights!
Hagia Sophia Museum
One of Istanbul’s greatest treasures is the Hagia Sophia Museum. It was a mosque for 482 years and a church for 916 years. Currently, Hagia Sophia is a museum and showcases design elements of both a church and a mosque. Built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian of the Byzantine Empire, this basilica features a regal dome, an enormous nave and stunning gold mosaics.
After the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, Mehmed II converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque. However, the original features of the Christian church were not destroyed.
Furthermore, unique Islamic calligraphy that is not present in any other mosque in the world was added to its interior walls. The Sultanahmet Park, which is located between the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, is the best spot for photos.
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)
The Byzantine architecture of Hagia Sophia served as an inspiration for many other Ottoman mosques such as Istanbul’s Blue Mosque. The Blue Mosque, with its brilliantly grandiose exterior features a cascade of domes and six tapering minarets, is one of the most recognised buildings in the world.
Locals refer to the Blue Mosque as Sultanahmet Mosque after Sultan Ahmet I of the Ottoman Empire who commissioned it before his untimely death at the age of 27. The mosque’s main prayer hall is enveloped with thousands of blue İznik tiles that give it its name. It’s advisable to visit the mosque early in the morning, as it can get very crowded. Women should carry a scarf, as they are required to cover their head.
Grand Bazaar
Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and most captivating markets in the world. Picture an open-air market with rows of shops as far as the eye can see. A cluster of colourful and fragrant stalls displaying spices greets visitors at the Grand Bazaar. As you make your way through the traditional market in Istanbul's heritage area, brace yourselves for a sensory overload.
There is a boundless assortment of nuts, herbs, spices, oils, unique home décor pieces and spectacular tableware showcased at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. You will be able to find incredible souvenirs here from all regions of Turkey and be prepared to bargain for the best deals.
Topkapi Palace Museum
Approximately, 30 sultans ruled from the Topkapi Palace for about four centuries during the Ottoman Empire’s 600-year reign. The vast Topkapi Palace housed 1,000 – 4,000 inhabitants.
Over centuries, the palace was renovated and expanded by numerous sultans and showcases Islamic, Ottoman and European architecture styles.
Unlike typical palaces, Topkapi Palace comprises one- and two-story structures spread out over a number of courtyards. Presently, tourists visit this museum to admire its imposing Imperial Council Chamber, treasure-filled Imperial Treasury and the charming Marble Terrace, which offers some of the best views of Istanbul’s skyline. When visiting this museum, wear comfortable shoes and carry a hat, as there is a lot of outdoor walking involved.
Basilica Cistern
Emperor Justinian of the Byzantine Empire commissioned this underground structure in 532. This splendid historical construction comprises 336 marble columns, many of which were retrieved from ruined temples and feature fine carvings and two Medusa heads. Other than the heads, one of the columns is engraved with a Hen's Eye, slanted branches and tears. Its symmetry and grandness are awe-inspiring.
Constructed to service the Great Palace and surrounding buildings, it had a storage capacity of nearly 80,000 cubic metres, but was closed when the Byzantine emperors relocated from the Great Palace. Presently, it’s one of the city's most famous tourist attractions. It is also a subject of archaeological intrigue as well as Hollywood blockbusters. The Basilica Cistern can be visited between 9.00 am and 6.30 pm every day.
Istanbul has some of the most rare structures in the world that showcase a blend of architectural styles of both Byzantine and Ottoman empires. In recent times, the Turkish government has transformed these architectural masterpieces into museums and galleries for both tourists and locals to enjoy. In 1985, a number of Istanbul’s major historic buildings and locations were together declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit Istanbul to see a seamless blend of the east and the west!
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