What to see in Istanbul?
If you were planning to travel to this most famous and important city in Turkey, you must have wondered what to see in Istanbul?
If you were planning to travel to this most famous and important city in Turkey, you must have wondered what to see in Istanbul? A trip to Istanbul is always a hit, and if the road takes you to this city, you will encounter a real historical gem on two continents. Istanbul (formerly Constantinople, Constantinople) is a city that, due to its diversity and variety, has managed to label itself as the most important city in Turkey, and many perceive it as the capital, even though it is not.
For centuries, various civilizations, nationalities, and races have passed through Istanbul, and that is why its diversity and the influence of many cultures make it unique. It is also specific that it spreads over two continents and in that way connects two civilizations - Europe and Asia. Although modernized parts of the city are extremely interesting for our time, as well as the magnificent creativity and architecture of Istanbul, the historical diversity of this city, which attracts tourists from the whole world, has been carved for millennia.
If you decide to travel to Istanbul by plane or maybe you want to visit Istanbul by bus, we will suggest to you some of the most famous attractions of Istanbul that you should not miss.
1. Hagia Sophia - Church of the Holy Wisdom
Hagia Sophia (Greek: Hagia-world, Sophia-wisdom) or the Church of the Holy Wisdom is certainly the most famous and photographed attraction in Istanbul. From 1934 to 2020, it was a museum that was admired by millions of tourists a year. From July 2020, by the decision of the Turkish authorities, it became a mosque again.
Hagia Sophia originally served as a Christian church and at that time it was considered that the ruler's altar inside the church was the center of the world. It is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and art in general. One of the greatest architectural achievements in the history of mankind was built in just 5 years (from 532 to 537) during the reign of Emperor Justinian.
It was the largest church in the world for almost a thousand years, more precisely until the construction of the Cathedral of Seville in 1520. The church was dedicated to Christ as the personification of Holy Wisdom. After the Ottoman invasion, the church was turned into a mosque, minarets were added, and the mosaics were painted and plastered.
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2. Topkapi Palace - (Topkapi Sarayi)
The Sultan's palace probably does not have to be presented and explained in particular, it is enough to just mention historical terms such as the famous Sultan's Harem and Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
Topkapi Palace has been the main residence of all Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years. It was built at the request of Mehmed II the Conqueror when he conquered Istanbul and served as the main residence until 1856 when Sultan Abdulmejid I moved the main residence to the Dolmabahçe Palace. Due to its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance, along with all its works of art, gold-plated ornaments and antiques, Topkapi Palace is under the protection of UNESCO.
The time when you can visit Topkapi Palace is from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Tickets for the Topkapi Palace can be purchased at the entrance to the palace or online. Of course, our recommendation is to always go accompanied by a guide, because you will hear some interesting facts about Istanbul the history of the city, but also the importance of this palace for the entire Ottoman Empire.
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3. Blue Mosque - (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
A great building gift of Sultan Ahmet and his capital was this beautiful mosque, today known as the Blue Mosque. It was built between 1609 and 1616. After the construction was completed, the mosque caused outrage throughout the Muslim world, because it had six minarets (the same as the "Great Mosque" in Mecca). The whole spatial and colorful effect of the interior makes the mosque one of the most beautiful achievements of Ottoman architecture. Immediately behind the Blue Mosque is the Arasta market. Great place to shop, because there are small craft shops here that sell very high-quality souvenirs. The entrance to the Blue Mosque is free of charge, but it is closed during prayers. There is a dress code as well as for entering the Hagia Sophia. Both men and women must have their legs covered, while women must wear headscarves.
