ITINERARY

• Visit the Hippodrome, the center of sports activities, and witness four remarkable monuments: The German Fountain Of Wilhelm II, Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column and Walled Obelisk.
• The Walled Obelisk, also known as the Masonry Obelisk, stands majestically in Istanbul's Sultanahmet Square. Originally constructed by Emperor Constantine VII in the 10th century from roughly cut stones, this obelisk was once covered in gilded bronze plaques. Though it now stands bare, having lost its metallic sheen to history, the Walled Obelisk continues to be an impressive testament to the Byzantine Empire's architectural and artistic achievements.
• The Serpent Column, an ancient Greek relic, stands proudly in Istanbul's Sultanahmet Square as a symbol of triumph. Originally part of the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, it was brought to Constantinople by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century to commemorate the Greek victory over the Persians. The column once featured three intertwined bronze serpents supporting a golden tripod. Though the serpents' heads are now missing, this fascinating artifact still evokes the rich history of the ancient world and its enduring legacy.
• Discover the Obelisk of Thedious, an ancient monument that stands as a testament to Roman architectural brilliance and historical legacy. Marvel at its intricately carved hieroglyphs and learn about the tales of conquest and tribute they tell.
• The German Fountain, a stunning example of Neo-Byzantine architecture, is nestled in the heart of Istanbul, near the Hagia Sophia. Gifted by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany to Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamid II in 1900, this ornate pavilion-style fountain is adorned with golden mosaics and a central dome, symbolizing the friendship between the two empires. Its historical significance and intricate design make it a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
• Sultanahmet Square, the historic heart of Istanbul, is a vibrant hub where centuries of history converge. Flanked by architectural marvels such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, this iconic square invites visitors to step back in time. Once the site of chariot races during the Byzantine era, it's now a lively meeting point with ancient obelisks, the German Fountain, and lush gardens. Sultanahmet Square captures the essence of Istanbul's diverse past and offers a glimpse into the city's timeless charm.
• The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. Built in the early 17th century under Sultan Ahmed I, this architectural masterpiece boasts six towering minarets and a vast courtyard. Its interior is adorned with over 20,000 hand-painted Iznik tiles in varying shades of blue, which give the mosque its nickname. The cascading domes and elegant calligraphy add to its serene beauty, making it a stunning fusion of Islamic art and Ottoman architecture that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
• Hagia Sophia, a timeless architectural wonder in Istanbul, stands as a symbol of the city's rich history. Originally constructed in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian I, it served as a Byzantine cathedral for nearly a millennium before becoming a mosque in the Ottoman era. Now a museum and a mosque, its grand dome, soaring arches, and exquisite mosaics reflect a harmonious blend of Christian and Islamic artistry. Hagia Sophia continues to inspire awe with its vast interior, where centuries of cultural heritage converge in one magnificent structure.
• The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, a vibrant maze of over 4,000 shops spread across 61 streets. Established in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed II, this bustling marketplace remains a hub of commerce and culture. Visitors can find an incredible array of goods, from intricately woven carpets and shimmering jewelry to exquisite ceramics and fragrant spices. The Grand Bazaar’s rich history and eclectic mix of wares make it a captivating destination where tradition meets modernity in a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds.
• Hagia Irene, located in Istanbul's Topkapi Palace complex, is a historic Byzantine church that dates back to the 4th century. Commissioned by Emperor Constantine I, it was the city's first cathedral before the construction of Hagia Sophia. Distinguished by its unique cross-domed architecture and a distinctive atrium, it remains largely intact despite multiple restorations over the centuries. Notable for its plain brick walls and a cross mosaic in the apse, Hagia Irene is a rare example of Byzantine religious architecture and serves today as a venue for classical concerts due to its exceptional acoustics.
• Topkapi Palace, perched on the Seraglio Point overlooking the Bosphorus in Istanbul, is a magnificent testament to Ottoman imperial history. Built in the 15th century under Sultan Mehmed II, the palace served as the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. This sprawling complex features opulent courtyards, lavish pavilions, and historic treasures like the Harem, the Imperial Treasury, and sacred Islamic relics. Visitors can immerse themselves in the grandeur of the Ottoman era while wandering through its beautifully landscaped gardens and intricately decorated rooms, gaining insight into centuries of empire and tradition.