Tag: Hagia Sophia

Named as a top city break destination by Trip Advisor, Istanbul is a cosmopolitan destination that captures attention with its mystical blend of romanticism, urban influences, and historical timeline. Previously the capital and ruling centre of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and named Byzantium and Constantinople respectively, these days, it is Turkey’s busiest city and it dominates the world’s travel industry. Sitting majestically on two continents, the intricate blend of old and new, modern and historical has fused gently together to provide visitors with everything they need for the perfect trip including affordable accommodation, international cuisine, shopping havens, vibrant nightlife and an abundance of tourist attractions. Sultanahmet  and the Bygone Ambiance of the Old City Most first time visitors to Istanbul head to Sultanahmet, the old part of the city known as the historical peninsula. From here,  the Greeks and Ottomans built their powerful empires and the splendour of their ancient architectural styles is clearly visible in timeless and classical buildings such as the Hagia Sophia. Inside the former church, mosque and now museum, intricate Christian frescoes sit among Islamic calligraphy plaques in what used to be the world's biggest dome building. A short walk away, the massive Blue Mosque doubles up as a place of prayer and busy tourist attraction. Built in 1616 and revered for its large size and tiled interior, it is a glimpse into the pious Istanbul, where the call to prayer calls out five times a day. Also, within close distance is the Topkapi Palace, nerve centre of the Ottoman Empire for more than 400 years. The sprawling collection of buildings including the armoury, stables, kitchens, and throne rooms hold tales of the sultans and their lives that were complex, intense and if we are to listen to rumours filled with desperate grabs for power