Things to Do

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, Turkey, is a remarkable historical site that dates back to the 6th century. Built during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it’s the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns lying beneath the city. Known locally as Yerebatan Sarnıcı, meaning “Sunken Cistern,” this underground water reservoir is famed for its…

The Byzantine Hippodrome, once the heart of public life in Constantinople, stands as a testament to the city’s glorious past. Situated in today’s Istanbul, it was a hub for chariot races and political activities in the Byzantine era. While much of the structure has vanished, key monuments like the Egyptian Obelisk and Serpent Column remain….

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, is a symphony of colors, scents, and sounds. Established in the 15th century, it has evolved into a sprawling labyrinth of over 4,000 shops, attracting both locals and tourists. The bazaar’s architecture reflects a blend of Ottoman and Byzantine styles, with…

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul stands as a monumental testament to the opulence and power of the Ottoman Empire. Erected in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed II, it served as the administrative center and royal residence until the mid-19th century. This sprawling complex, overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, offers a unique blend of Byzantine and Ottoman…

Hagia Sophia: A Timeless Architectural Marvel and Cultural Treasure Hagia Sophia, located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey, stands as an iconic masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that attracts millions of visitors each year. Originally constructed as a cathedral in 537 AD under the reign of Emperor Justinian I, it has undergone a remarkable transformation throughout…

The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a historic mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. Built between 1609 and 1616, it’s renowned for its blue tiles and six unique minarets. A stunning blend of Islamic and Byzantine architecture, the mosque is a popular tourist attraction and active place of worship in the city’s Sultanahmet district.