Istanbul is the only city in the world, which embraces two continents, one arm reaching out into Asia, the other into Europe. The former capital of three successive empires- Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman- the city is a fascinating mixture of past and present, old and new, modern and traditional. The museums, churches, palaces, mosques and bazaars and the sights of natural beauty seem inexhaustible.
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| Topkapi Palace is the most interesting place where the sultans and their court lived and governed. On the right of the second court, shaded by cypress and plane trees, stand the palace kitchens, now galleries exhibiting the imperial collections of crystal, silver and Chinese porcelain. To the left, the Harem, the secluded quarters of the wives, concubines and the children of the sultan. The third court holds the famous jewels of the treasury, a priceless collection of miniatures and imperial costumes.
St. Sophia is unquestionably one of the finest and most extraordinary buildings in the history of architecture and a monument to the golden age of the Byzantine Empire. Some of the most important events in the history of Byzantium are connected with this venerable edifice, and it played such a central role in the life of the city that it has become the enduring symbol of Byzantine Constantinople. You should linger here to absorb the building's majestic serenity and to admire the fine Byzantine mosaics.
Blue Mosque is the most prominent landmark in Istanbul.It is thought by many to have the most splendid exterior of the imperial mosques in the city with unique six minarets.It is very famous with it's tiles.
The ancient Hippodrome, the scene of chariot and the centre of Byzantine civic life, is called Sultanahmet.Three remains are in the spina: Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column and Column of Constantine.Today the square forms the centre of Istanbul's historical, cultural and touristic activities.
Beylerbeyi Palace was built by Sultan Abdulaziz in the 19th century. Used as the Sultan's summer residence, it was offered to the most distinguished foreign dignitaries during their visits.Empress Eugenie of France was among its residents.
A stay in Istanbul is not complete without the traditional and unforgettable boat excursion up the Bosphorus, the winding strait that separates Europe and Asia. Its shores offer a delightful mixture of past and present, grand splendour and simple beauty. During the journey you pass in front of the magnificent Dolmabahce Palace and in Ortakoy, there is a church, mosque and a synagogue that have existed side by side for hundred of years. The Beylerbeyi Palace lies just past the bridge on the Asian side. Behind the palace rises Camlica Hill, the highest point of Istanbul. A few kilometres farther out, facing each other across the straits like sentries' guardining the city stand the fortresses of Rumeli Hisari and Anadolu Hisari. |
