It was originally built by Emperor Justinian I between 532 and 537 CE to serve as the cathedral of Constantinople (present-day Istanbul) and stands on the site of two earlier churches. The Hagia Sophia is one of the most famous buildings in history.
The building has had many different names over its long history. From “New Church” to “Holy Wisdom”. The Hagia Sophia Mosque is one of the few buildings in Istanbul that survived from antiquity and has been used continuously since then.
2.Explore Topkapı Palace (Topkapı Sarayı)
Topkapı Palace, located on the Asian side of Istanbul, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. The palace was the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost 400 years and is now a museum open to the public. The palace complex is quite large and contains many different buildings, including a mosque, barracks, and treasury.
Topkapı Palace (Topkapı Sarayı), located on the Bosporus in Istanbul, Turkey, was the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans for almost four hundred years. The palace is one of the largest and most opulent palaces in the world and contains a wealth of architectural and decorative treasures.
Topkapı Palace, located on the promontory of Sarayburnu in Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the largest and most famous palaces in the world. It was the main residence of the Ottoman Sultans for approximately 400 years (1465-1856), and is now a museum. The palace complex consists of four main courtyards and many smaller buildings. It contains numerous Harem apartments, baths, a library, and a mosque.
The palace complex consists of four main courtyards, along with several smaller buildings and pavilions set within large gardens and parks. The complex includes many fine examples of Turkish art such as calligraphy, furniture, ceramics, metalware and carpets as well as some European imports such as porcelain from China or silverware from Italy.
Topkapı Palace is a palace in Istanbul, Turkey, that was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans from 1478 to 1856.
The palace is situated on the third hill of Istanbul. It was built by Mehmed II between 1459 and 1478 and it is a large complex with many beautiful buildings and pavilions surrounded by gardens.
3.Visit the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Cami)
The Blue Mosque is a must-see for any visitor to Istanbul. 2. It’s one of the city’s most famous landmarks and is considered one of the world’s greatest mosques.
The mosque was built in the early 17th century by Sultan Ahmet I.
It’s famed for its blue tiles and six minarets.
It’s open to visitors from 9am to 5pm daily (except during prayer times).
The Blue Mosque is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Istanbul. It’s also the largest mosque in the city. The mosque was built in the 17th century by Sultan Ahmet I. The mosque gets its name from the blue tiles that line the inside of the building.
The Blue Mosque, Sultan Ahmet Camii in Turkish, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Istanbul.
It’s not hard to see why – the mosque is beautifully decorated both inside and out.
It’s also one of the largest mosques in Istanbul, with a capacity for 10,000 worshippers.
The Blue Mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 by the Ottoman Sultan Ahmet I.
This is one of the most famous mosques in Istanbul and it is open to visitors from all religions. The Blue Mosque has six minarets and eight domes that are covered with blue tiles. It also has two large marble fountains at its entrance that were built by Sultan Ahmet
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, in Istanbul is one of the most well-known structures in Turkey. The mosque was designed in the early 1600s by Emin Sinan, a famous architect of that time. Sinan used a mix of blue tiles to create the interior effect that gives the mosque its name.
4.Head Underground at the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıçı)
The Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist destinations. It was built in the 6th century and used to store water for the city. The cistern is huge – it’s almost 650 feet long and holds around 22 million gallons of water. Visitors can walk along the banks of the cistern and see its impressive architecture. There are also two Medusa heads on display, which were once part of a column.
The Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıçı) is a subterranean wonder that should not be missed on any visit to Istanbul. This impressive feat of engineering, completed in the 6th century, was used to store water for the city’s many inhabitants. Today, visitors can explore its eerie chambers and marvel at the intricate stonework.
The Basilica Cistern, also known as the Yerebatan Sarnıçı, is one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions. It was built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, and is now home to 336 ancient columns. Visitors can explore the cistern’s eerie atmosphere by walking its narrow pathways and bridges.
The Basilica Cistern is an underground Byzantine cistern located in Istanbul, Turkey. The cistern is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul because it houses architectural features from both Christianity and Islam. It was originally built by Emperor Justinian I, but was renovated by Emperor Manuel I Comnenus who added a domed roof to cover its open-air interior with sloping sides that are supported by 336 marble columns.
The columns used in construction were recycled from earlier classical structures and feature decorative carvings.
5. Stroll the Hippodrome-best places to visit in istanbul
The Hippodrome was the center of life in Constantinople for over a thousand years. It’s easy to see why- with its beautiful architecture and stunning surroundings, it’s no wonder that people flocked to the Hippodrome for entertainment and leisure.
Istanbul is one of the most beautiful and historically rich cities in the world. There are so many places to visit that it can be hard to know where to start. One of the best places to start is the Hippodrome. The Hippodrome was the center of life in Constantinople for over a thousand years. It’s a great place to stroll and take in the sights and sounds of one of the oldest cities in the world.
Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city, and the country’s cultural and financial center. Istanbul is a fascinating city with a rich history that spans over 2,000 years. There are many places in Istanbul that tourists should visit, including the Hippodrome. The Hippodrome was the center of Constantinople’s social life and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can also explore the Grand Bazaar, which is one of the world’s oldest and largest markets.
The Hippodrome is situated on Sultanahmet Square, one of the oldest areas of Istanbul, and was originally used as a stadium for horse racing. It was also used as an amphitheatre for shows and games.
The Hippodrome has been built over with residences and other buildings over time, but it still stands today as one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions.
6. Check Out the Collection in Istanbul Archaeology Museum
The Museum of the Ancient Orient (MAO) was founded in 2009 and is the first museum of its kind in the Middle East. The MAO’s mission is to promote understanding and dialogue between cultures through exhibitions and educational programming that focus on the art and heritage of the region prior to Islam.
The Museum of the Ancient Orient has become a mecca for tourists looking to experience Istanbul’s rich heritage. Long neglected in favor of its European-focused neighbors, this museum has brought the city’s past back to life.
7. Shop in the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı)
The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It’s over 1,000 years old, and has more than 58 streets and over 4,000 shops. You can find anything you want at the Grand Bazaar, from souvenirs to carpets to jewelry. The prices are also very reasonable, so it’s a great place to shop for bargains.
The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı), located in Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. The market consists of 61 streets and over 4,000 shops. Visitors can find anything they could possibly want at the Grand Bazaar, from souvenirs to carpets to jewelry. The market is open every day except Sunday, and it’s a great place to bargain for the best prices.
The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) is a world-famous shopping destination in Istanbul, Turkey. It’s home to over 3,000 shops, making it one of the largest markets in the world. If you’re looking for souvenirs, traditional Turkish handicrafts, or just a great place to shop, the Grand Bazaar is definitely worth a visit.
There are many other places to visit in Istanbul that are not as touristy as this famous landmark. Some visitors consider these hidden gems more interesting than visiting some of Istanbul’s more popular attractions like Topkapi Palace or Hagia Sophia.
8. Admire the Architecture of the Süleymaniye Mosque
The Süleymaniye Mosque was built in the 16th century by the Ottoman Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent. The mosque is one of the most impressive examples of Ottoman architecture and is characterized by its large size and grandeur. The mosque’s interior is decorated with beautiful calligraphy and Quranic verses, and its exterior is adorned with intricate tiles and carvings.
The Süleymaniye Mosque is one of the most beautiful and impressive examples of Ottoman architecture. It was built by Mimar Sinan in the 16th century for Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent. The mosque is named after the sultan and is located on a hill overlooking the Golden Horn in Istanbul.
The mosque has a large courtyard with a fountain in the center, and four minarets.
The Süleymaniye Mosque is one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in Istanbul. It was built in the 16th century by the Ottoman Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent. The mosque is named after him. The mosque has a large courtyard and four minarets. The interior of the mosque is decorated with beautiful tiles and calligraphy.
The Süleymaniye Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks and it is considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in Turkey. The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Süleyman I, also known as “Süleyman the Magnificent”, who ruled from 1520 to 1566, and was built between 1550 and 1557 during his reign. It was designed
9. Sample Turkish Produce in the Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı)
If you’re ever in Istanbul, be sure to visit the Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı). It’s one of the largest and oldest markets in the city. And if you’re looking for a taste of Turkish produce, you’ll find plenty of it here. From figs and apricots to pistachios and hazelnuts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So why not explore the Spice Bazaar for yourself?
If you’re looking for a taste of Turkey, head to the Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) in Istanbul. This maze of market streets is home to dozens of stalls selling all sorts of Turkish produce. You can find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to spices, nuts, and sweets. A wander through the Spice Bazaar is a must-do for food lovers visiting Istanbul.
The Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) is a must-see for any visitor to Istanbul. This bustling market is home to a wide variety of spices, fruits, and vegetables. While there are many tempting items on offer, some of the most interesting are the Turkish produce. Here are a few examples of what you can find in the Spice Bazaar.
The Spice Bazaar has been a center of trade for centuries. In Ottoman times it was a place where people could buy all kinds of spices that were imported from all over the world. Today it is still one of the best places to visit in Istanbul for its historical significance and rich culture.
10. Soak Up the Splendor of Dolmabahçe Palace
The Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the most magnificent structures in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the mid-19th century by Sultan Abdülmecid I and is now a popular tourist attraction. The palace features exquisite architecture and decorations, as well as stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait.
Dolmabahçe Palace is a magnificent palace that overlooks the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, Turkey. It was constructed between 1843 and 1856 by Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecid I. The palace is noted for its extravagant interior design, which incorporates elements of both Western and Ottoman architecture. Today, Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Istanbul.
Dolmabahçe Palace was built in the mid-19th century by Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecid I as a grand residence for himself and his court. The palace is situated on the banks of the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul and is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. Dolmabahçe features stunning architecture and lavish interiors, including a grand hall with a marble floor and walls covered in gold leaf.
The Dolmabahce Palace was built for Sultan Abdulmecid I in 1853. The palace was built on a small island that was connected to the mainland by a causeway. The palace is made up of two buildings, with each building consisting of four floors.
The ground floor has a large entrance hall and an impressive staircase leading to the upper floors. There are also numerous rooms on this floor that were used by visitors to stay overnight or conduct official business with officials from the Ottoman Empire.
The second floor consists of ceremonial rooms and living quarters for members of the royal family,
11.See the Frescoes of the Chora Church (Kariye Cami)
The Chora Church, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is home to some of the most beautiful Byzantine frescoes in the world. The frescoes date back to the eleventh and twelfth centuries, and they depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints. The paintings are incredibly intricate and colorful, and they are well worth a visit for any art lover.
The Chora Church (Kariye Cami) is a Byzantine church located in the Edirnekapi neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. The church was built in the eleventh century and underwent numerous renovations over the centuries. The most notable feature of the church is its frescoes, which date from the fourteenth to sixteenth centuries. The frescoes depict scenes from the Bible and from the life of Jesus Christ.
The Chora Church, located in Istanbul, Turkey, contains some of the most beautiful Byzantine frescoes in the world. The paintings, which date from the 12th through the 14th centuries, depict religious scenes and images of Christ. Many of the frescoes were damaged during the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, but they have been restored over the years and are now a major tourist attraction.
The frescoes are divided into three sections: south, west and north. The south section depicts scenes from the life of Christ and his mother, Mary, while the west section shows scenes from the Old Testament. The north section is devoted to Saint Nicholas and other saints such as Saint Irene and Gregory Palamas. There are also many depictions of everyday life in Byzantine society such as hunting, fishing, farming etc.
12. Visit the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (Türk ve Islam Eserleri Müzesi)
The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts is a museum located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, Turkey. It is dedicated to the art and culture of the Turks and Muslims. The museum contains a large collection of paintings, calligraphy, manuscripts, tiles, and ceramics from the 8th to the 19th centuries.
If you’re ever in Istanbul, a visit to the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (Türk ve Islam Eserleri Müzesi) is an absolute must. The museum is located in the heart of the old city and is home to a vast collection of art from both the Turkish and Islamic worlds. The exhibits are arranged chronologically, so you can witness the progression of these cultures over time.
The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts is a museum in Istanbul, Turkey, that specializes in the art of the Turks and Muslims. The museum is located in the city’s Eminönü district, on the Golden Horn. It was established in 1948 by Osman Hamdi Bey as the “Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts” (Türk ve İslam Eserleri Müzesi), and was later renamed after him.
The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts is a cultural center that provides a great insight into the art and culture of Turkey. It is an important tourist destination in Istanbul.
The museum has three floors, each with its own theme. The first floor exhibits Islamic arts from the Ottoman Empire, while the second floor exhibits art from the Seljuk Empire. The third floor exhibits Turkish arts from the Ottoman Empire, including calligraphy and ceramics.
13. View the Little Aya Sofya (Küçük Aya Sofya)
It’s hard to believe that such an important and iconic building is so often overlooked by tourists in Istanbul. The Little Aya Sofya (Küçük Aya Sofya) is a former Byzantine church that was converted into a mosque after the Muslim conquest of Constantinople in 1453. It’s now a museum, and it’s well worth a visit if you’re interested in Byzantine or Ottoman architecture.
The Little Aya Sofya, also known as Küçük Aya Sofya, is a former Eastern Orthodox church located in Istanbul, Turkey. The church was built in the sixth century and is noted for its Justinian architecture. The Little Aya Sofya was damaged by an earthquake in the fourteenth century and was later converted into a mosque. The building was used as a warehouse for gunpowder during the nineteenth century and was damaged by fire.
Küçük Aya Sofya is a small Byzantine-era church located in the Fatih district of Istanbul, Turkey. The church was built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I and is one of the oldest surviving churches in Istanbul. Küçük Aya Sofya suffered damage in the 2011 earthquake and has been closed to the public since then. However, the church is scheduled to reopen in 2019 after undergoing restoration work.
The Little Aya Sofya is the only remaining Byzantine church in Istanbul. It was built in the 6th century and it is located near the Grand Bazaar. The church has a rich history and it is one of the most important monuments of early Christianity in Istanbul.
The church’s architecture is Byzantine style with some modifications of Ottoman style, which can be seen on its exterior walls and domes. The interior decoration has been lost over time but there are still some remnants that show what kind
