ITINERARY

• **Hagia Sophia** Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the world’s most significant architectural and historical landmarks. Originally constructed as a cathedral by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537 AD, it served as the largest cathedral in the world for nearly 1,000 years. Following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it was converted into a mosque and remained a mosque until 1935 when it was turned into a museum by the Turkish Republic. In 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque. The building is famous for its massive dome, which was an engineering marvel at the time, and its stunning mosaics, which depict Christian iconography and were uncovered after the building's conversion to a mosque. Hagia Sophia stands as a symbol of both Christian and Islamic heritage, attracting millions of visitors annually for its historical and architectural grandeur. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• **Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)** The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Built between 1609 and 1616, it was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I and remains an active place of worship today. Known for its stunning blue tiles that decorate the interior, the mosque features six minarets, a large central dome, and several smaller domes. The Blue Mosque is an excellent example of Ottoman architecture, showcasing intricate tilework, calligraphy, and decorative motifs. It can accommodate thousands of worshippers, offering both historical and spiritual significance. The mosque's serene and majestic atmosphere, along with its rich cultural heritage, make it a must-visit destination for tourists and religious visitors alike.
• **Topkapi Palace** Topkapi Palace, located in Istanbul, Turkey, was the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, from the 15th to the 19th century. It was commissioned by Sultan Mehmed II after the conquest of Constantinople in 1453. The palace is a sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens, and grand buildings, showcasing the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Key features of the palace include the **Harem**, where the sultan’s family resided, and the **Treasury**, which houses priceless jewels and artifacts, including the famous **Topkapi Dagger**. The **Imperial Kitchens** and **Sacred Relics Room**, which contains relics of the Prophet Muhammad, are also notable. Today, Topkapi Palace is a museum, attracting millions of visitors with its rich history, exquisite architecture, and impressive collections. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle and power of the Ottoman sultans.
• **Hagia Irene** Hagia Irene is an ancient church located in Istanbul, Turkey, within the grounds of Topkapi Palace. Built in the 4th century during the reign of Emperor Constantine, it is one of the oldest Byzantine churches still standing today. Unlike many other churches in Istanbul, Hagia Irene was never converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of the city in 1453, and it remains a Christian structure. The church is notable for its large, open interior, which is free of supporting columns. It features beautiful Byzantine architecture with impressive arches and mosaics, although most of its original decorations were lost over time. Hagia Irene also served as the imperial church and hosted important events, including the First Council of Constantinople in 381 AD. Today, Hagia Irene is part of the Topkapi Palace Museum and is occasionally used for concerts and cultural events, attracting visitors for its historical significance and serene atmosphere.
• Hippodrome of Constantinople The Hippodrome of Constantinople, located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, was an ancient chariot racing arena and one of the most important social and political centers of the Byzantine Empire. It was built by Emperor Septimius Severus in the 3rd century AD and expanded by Emperor Constantine the Great in the 4th century. The Hippodrome could hold up to 100,000 spectators and was used for various events, including chariot races, festivals, and public gatherings. Today, only a few remnants of the Hippodrome remain, such as the **Obelisk of Theodosius**, the **Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk. These monuments, along with the layout of the Hippodrome, give visitors a sense of the grandeur of the venue. The Hippodrome also played a significant role in the political life of the empire, with factions supporting different chariot teams often influencing imperial politics. The Hippodrome's legacy continues to be felt in Istanbul...
• **Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)** The Basilica Cistern, or Yerebatan Sarnıcı, is an ancient underground water reservoir located in Istanbul, Turkey. Built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, it was designed to supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople. The cistern is known for its impressive size, covering an area of 9,800 square meters and supported by 336 marble columns, each 9 meters tall. The cistern's serene, dimly lit atmosphere, with water reflecting the columns and intricate carvings, creates a magical ambiance for visitors. One of the most famous features is the Medusa head columns, where two columns are supported by upside-down Medusa heads. Today, the Basilica Cistern is open to the public and serves as both a historical landmark and a popular tourist attraction. It highlights the engineering genius of the Byzantine Empire while offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
• **Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı), Istanbul** The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey. Established in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, it spans over 30,000 square meters and contains more than 4,000 shops. The bazaar is a maze of narrow streets and passageways, offering a vast array of goods, including jewelry, textiles, carpets, spices, ceramics, and antiques. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, the Grand Bazaar is not only a major shopping destination but also a cultural experience. Visitors can explore its intricate architecture, including domed ceilings, arched passageways, and beautiful courtyards. It's a bustling marketplace where locals and tourists alike haggle for unique items. The Grand Bazaar remains a symbol of Istanbul's rich commercial and cultural heritage, attracting millions of visitors each year.