ITINERARY

• The Hippodrome of Constantinople, now known as Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, was an ancient chariot racing stadium and a major social center of the Byzantine Empire. Built by Roman Emperor Septimius Severus in the early 3rd century and later expanded by Emperor Constantine I, it could hold tens of thousands of spectators. Though much of the original structure is no longer visible, several historical monuments remain: - **The Obelisk of Theodosius**: A 3,500-year-old Egyptian obelisk brought to Constantinople by Emperor Theodosius I. - **The Serpent Column**: Originally from Delphi, Greece, this bronze column commemorates a Greek victory over the Persians. - **The Walled Obelisk**: A less ornate stone obelisk built during the reign of Constantine VII. The Hippodrome was not only a place for races but also for political events and gatherings, making it a key hub in Byzantine social and political life.
• The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks and a prime example of classical Ottoman architecture. It was built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, The mosque is located near Hagia Sophia, creating a stunning architectural contrast between the two iconic structures. The mosque gets its nickname "Blue Mosque" from the more than 20,000 handmade İznik ceramic tiles that adorn its interior walls, many of which feature blue hues. These tiles, along with the mosque's interior lighting from over 200 stained glass windows, create a serene and luminous atmosphere. It is also a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to admire its stunning architecture, intricate tile work, and historical significance. The mosque's proximity to other historic sites like Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace makes it a central part of Istanbul's cultural and historical landscape.
• Hagia Sophia is one of the most iconic architectural achievements in history. Constructed between 532 and 537 AD under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was the world's largest building and an engineering marvel of its time. The structure has a rich and layered history. It was an Eastern Orthodox cathedral for almost 1,000 years, converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, and then turned into a museum in 1935. In 2020, Hagia Sophia was reconverted into a mosque, although it still retains its status as a cultural and historical monument, welcoming people from all over the world. Hagia Sophia's architecture combines elements of both Christian and Islamic art and design. Inside, it features intricate mosaics, marble pillars, and large calligraphic panels added during the Ottoman era. Despite the changes in its religious function over centuries, it remains a symbol of harmony between cultures and religions.
• The Basilica Cistern, located in Istanbul, is an ancient underground water storage facility built during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century. It is famous for its grand, cathedral-like architecture with 336 marble columns, arranged in 12 rows, that support the ceiling. The dimly lit, atmospheric space has vaulted ceilings and is partially filled with water, reflecting the columns beautifully. Two of the columns feature Medusa heads as their bases, adding a mysterious element to the cistern's allure.
• The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı in Turkish) is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, located in Istanbul, Turkey. Established in the 15th century, shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, it spans over 30,000 square meters and contains more than 4,000 shops. The bazaar is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, with a labyrinth of streets and alleys lined with stalls selling everything from carpets and textiles to jewelry, ceramics, and spices. Its architectural design reflects Ottoman aesthetics, featuring domed roofs, arched passages, and intricate tile work. The Grand Bazaar is not only a major tourist attraction but also a vital part of Istanbul’s commercial and cultural life, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant traditions.
• Topkapi Palace was the primary residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Built by Sultan Mehmed II after the conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the palace sits on a promontory with stunning views over the Bosporus and the Golden Horn. Key features of the palace include: - **The Imperial Gate**: The grand entrance leading to the First Courtyard. - **The Harem**: A private section where the sultan's family and concubines lived, featuring intricately decorated rooms. - **The Treasury**: Housing a collection of precious items, including the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker's Diamond. - **The Sacred Relics**: Artifacts of religious significance, including items attributed to the Prophet Muhammad. The palace is a sprawling complex of courtyards, pavilions, and gardens, showcasing Ottoman architecture, art, and culture. Today, it is a museum and one of Istanbul's most visited historical sites.