ITINERARY

• We begin our tour with a guided visit from the outside to the Hagia Sophia mosque; one of the most iconic monuments in the city. The narration is done from the outside as the entry of tourist guides is prohibited. Originally, Hagia Sophia was built as a Christian cathedral in the year 537 during the Byzantine Empire. For almost a thousand years, it served as one of the most important churches in Eastern Christianity. Then, in 1453, after the conquest of Constantinople by the Ottomans, the church was converted into a mosque. Later, with the founding of the Republic of Turkey, it was converted into a museum but today it is used as a mosque again. Hagia Sophia is famous for its impressive architecture and its giant dome, its mosaics and frescoes: Although many of the original Christian-themed mosaics and frescoes were covered or removed after the conversion into a mosque, some of them have been restored and can be admired .
• The second stop on our tour is the most famous Mosque of the Ottoman Empire. The Blue Mosque, known as the "Sultanahmet Camii" in Turkish, is a famous mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. Name: Its nickname "Blue Mosque" is derived from the blue ceramic tiles that adorn its interior. Location: It is located in the Sultanahmet district, in the historic heart of Istanbul. Architecture: It was built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, and combines elements of the Ottoman architectural style with Byzantine influences. Decoration: The interior is decorated with more than 20,000 blue ceramic tiles, hence its name. Characteristics: The mosque has a large central courtyard and a fountain for ablutions. Religious Use: Although a popular tourist attraction, the Blue Mosque remains an active place of worship, with all five daily prayers and Friday prayers being held.
• The Istanbul Roman Hippodrome, known in Turkish as "At Meydanı", is a former sports and entertainment venue that was an important part of the social and political life of ancient Constantinople (now Istanbul) during the Roman and Byzantine Empires. . Some key points about the Roman Hippodrome are: History: Built in 203 AD. by the emperor Septimius Severus, the hippodrome was used for chariot races and other public events, as well as for exhibitions and athletic competitions. Location: It is located in the Sultanahmet district, in the historic heart of Istanbul, near the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia Mosque. Layout: The hippodrome had an oblong shape and was surrounded by stands and monuments. It could accommodate tens of thousands of spectators. Obelisks and Columns: Several notable monuments were erected at the hippodrome, including obelisks brought from Egypt and columns with bronze statues.
• Topkapi Palace is an iconic historical palace located in Istanbul, Turkey, and was the main residence of the Ottoman sultans for several centuries. Here are some highlights about Topkapi Palace: History: Built in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed II, Topkapi Palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th century Architecture: The palace features impressive architecture that combines Ottoman and Persian elements. Functions: In addition to serving as a royal residence, the palace also housed the empire's administration Imperial Treasury: One of the most famous attractions at Topkapi Palace is the Imperial Treasury, which houses valuable jewels, treasures, and historical artifacts. Harem: The palace includes an area called the Harem, where the sultan's wives, concubines, and family members lived. Panoramic views: From the palace you get panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn
• Guided Tour and Free Time in the Grand Bazaar The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the oldest and largest markets in the world. Located in the historic heart of the city, it is a place famous for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offer of products, such as jewelry, textiles, spices and handicrafts.
• The harem of Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, Turkey, was where the women of the Ottoman royal family lived and were raised. This complex, built in the 15th century, housed not only the sultan's wives, but also concubines, eunuchs and other members of the court. The harem was a luxurious and private space, where women received education, participated in cultural activities and played an important role in palace life. However, access was strictly controlled, and the harem was kept a mystery to the outside world.