Highlights of Old City Istanbul
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace is a historic palace in Istanbul, Turkey that was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for approximately 400 years. It is located on the Seraglio Point, a promontory overlooking the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara. The palace is a complex of buildings, courtyards, and gardens, and includes several important structures such as the Harem, the Imperial Council Hall, and the Treasury. The palace also houses an extensive collection of Ottoman art and artifacts, including manuscripts, weapons, and jewelry. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hagia Sophia Mosque
The Hagia Sophia is a historic building in Istanbul, Turkey that originally served as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral before later being converted into a mosque and, most recently, a museum. The building was constructed in the 6th century AD under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and is considered one of the greatest examples of Byzantine architecture. It is famous for its massive dome, which was considered a technological marvel at the time of its construction. The Hagia Sophia also contains a wealth of religious and cultural artifacts, including mosaics, frescoes, and inscriptions. The Hagia Sophia was a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is now a museum. On July 2020, Turkish President announced that the Hagia Sophia will be converted back to a mosque and open for Muslim worship.
The Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water storage system located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the 6th century AD during the Byzantine Empire to provide water for the city. The cistern is located beneath the city and covers an area of approximately 9,800 square meters. It is supported by 336 marble columns, each 9 meters high, arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns each. The cistern is famous for its two Medusa head columns, which were used as a base for two of the cistern's columns. The cistern was rediscovered in the 16th century and it is open to the public as a tourist attraction. It is one of the most famous cisterns in Istanbul and it is a popular tourist destination due to its unique design and historical significance.
Sultanahmet Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a historic mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the early 17th century during the rule of the Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I. The mosque is famous for its blue tile work, which gives it its name, and its six minarets, which is a feature that sets it apart from other mosques. The Blue Mosque is considered a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. The mosque is still an active place of worship and visitors are asked to dress modestly and take off their shoes before entering. The mosque is also famous for its intricate tile work, calligraphy, and decoration, which is a blend of Ottoman and Islamic architectural styles. PLEASE NOTE: Temporarily Closed due to restoration works till 1st of April,2023
Hippodrome of Constantinople
The Hippodrome of Constantinople was a public space in Istanbul, Turkey, that was built during the Roman period. It was used for chariot races and other public events, and it was considered the social and cultural center of the city. The Hippodrome was located in the center of the ancient city of Constantinople, and it was surrounded by important structures such as the Emperor's Box, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the Serpent Column.
Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı)
The Grand Bazaar is a historic market in Istanbul, Turkey that dates back to the 15th century. It is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 60 streets and 4,000 shops. The bazaar is a labyrinth of shops and stalls selling a wide variety of goods, including textiles, jewelry, ceramics, spices, and souvenirs. The bazaar is also known for its beautiful architecture, with many of the shops and buildings dating back to the Ottoman period. The Grand Bazaar is a major tourist attraction and an important cultural and economic center in Istanbul. It is also a vibrant place where locals and tourists alike can shop, socialize, and experience the local culture. Visitors to the bazaar should be prepared to haggle over prices and to navigate the crowded and busy streets.
Caferaga Medresesi
Caferaga Medresesi is an Islamic theological school located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the 17th century during the Ottoman period and was one of the most important institutions of its kind in the city.
Soğukçeşme Street
The street is lined with many examples of traditional Ottoman architecture, including houses with wooden balconies and ornate facades. Sogukcesme Sokak is a picturesque street and it's a popular place for tourists and locals to stroll and admire the architecture.
