Don't Go Without Seeing

There are symbolic points that come to mind when Istanbul is mentioned. Places where you can feel the history, texture, daily life and, in short, the spirit of Istanbul. It's time to get lost in the city.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Hagia Sophia is one of the most important and splendid monuments of the world history that managed to survive for centuries. It has been in the favorite position for hundreds of years with its architecture, enormousness, functionality, the art it contains in and magnificence.Firstly, we should remind you that it is the biggest church that the East Roman Empire made. This gorgeous structure which was constructed three times at the same place was named ‘Megale Ekklesia’ which means ‘The Great Church’. When it was first made in the 5th century, from that time until the period of the conquest of İstanbul, it was remembered with the name of ‘Hagia Sophia’ which means ‘Holy Wisdom’. Megale Ekklesia which was constructed by the Emperor Constantine in the year of 360 AD, had to be reconstructed by Theodosis II in 415. However, the structure of this time was burnt down by a public rebellion which broke out in that period.Today’s Hagia Sophia was constructed by the Emperor Justinian I. The most important two architects of that period Trallesi with the name of today Anthemios from Aydın and Isidoros from Miletos were chosen for this mission. According to the information from the records that reached today, together with Anthemios and Isidoros, 100 architechs and 100 workers under the guidance of these architects were made to work in the construction of Hagia Sophia. In 5 years and 10 months, Hagia Sophia was completed as a result of frenetic works and was opened to the service of Christians.Hagia Sophia was used as a church for exactly 916 years after it had been constructed and it was turned into a mosque after Mehmed the Conqueror had conquered İstanbul in 1453 and this time was opened to the service of Muslims. Hagia Sophia was later added Islamic details without touching the Virgin Marry and Jesus figures while it was being turned into a mosque, its architecture was strengthened and preserved with utmost care and with all these reinforces, it took its final shape of today. In the 16th and 17th centuries, preaching chair, maksoorah (area in a mosque which has been screened off), mihrabs (altars) were placed to Hagia Sophia which was already a mosque.Hagia Sophia has always been everyone’s favourite with its beauty throughout its history. It was always preserved and especially after being converted into a mosque, it has gone through studies in order to be turned into a complex structure. However, primary school, fountain, a place for accurate timepiece, public fountain, sun clocks, madrasah, minarets that were made in different periods and room of board of trustees were constructed.Hagia Sophia which was turned into a museum by Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk after the Republic of Turkey had been founded, thus after the years that is served for two different religions on different dates, was presented to the admiration of people from different ideas and different part of the society.When we tell so much about it, we shouldn’t ignore the facts that make it so special and important. The most architectural feature of Hagia Sophia is its dome which is so unusual compared to a church, with its enormousness and height that astonishes a person. The dome standing just in the middle place, while stones and bricks were used in all structure, was laid with light and firm bricks which were specially made in Rhodes to protect it from the earthquakes and disasters because of the slope it had. As we said, Hagia Sophia has been a favourite place on every date and Hagia Sophia is always Hagia Sophia. By the year 1847 that period Sultan Abdulmecid took a special care for here. First he had this structure repaired, loyal to its original, after that he had the Sura of Lights (Nur Suresi) 35th verse written to 11,3 diameter part of the main dome to the Kadi-uil asker (Kazasker) Mustafa İzzet Efendi who was the most wonderful calligrapher of the period. For those who don’t know, in the verse mentioned it is written; ‘Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The similitude of His light is as a niche wherein is a lamp. The lamp is in a glass. The glass is as it were a shining star. (This lamp is) kindled from a blessed tree, an olive neither of the East nor of the West, whose oil would almost glow forth (of itself) though no fire touched it. Light upon light, Allah guideth unto His light whom He will. And Allah speaketh to mankind in allegories, for Allah is knower of all things..

Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque)

<html>Sultanahmet Mosque, which also gives its name to the Square in which it is located, is one of the most important cultural and spiritual attractions of Istanbul. It is located in Fatih district, in a touristic area where there are many buildings of historical importance. Sultanahmet Mosque, which is also called the ‘Blue Mosque’ because of the Blue Iznik tiles on the interior walls, is an indispensable value in terms of the city's skyline. Sultanahmet Mosque is also one of the most famous mosques in the world.It was built by Sultan Ahmet I between 1606-1616. During the period when it was built, there were military, economic, and social problems from the point of view of the Ottoman Empire. He therefore drew criticism upon himself, because it had unusual magnificence with its six minarets and huge dimensions. When you come closer, you can enter the courtyard and then the mosque by passing through the At Meydanı exit or passing through the courtyard entrance. It has another door that can be entered directly into the mosque. Inside the mosque, there are giant columns, also called thick massive free-standing pillars that support the main dome. With more than 250 windows, the interior is quite luminous. Iznik tiles in the mosque are eye-catching. According to experts, tiles are an emphasis on the Golden Age of this art... It is unique for its eye-catching Dome decorations and general ambiance. The pulpit section, the Sultan's mahfil (place of prayer) and the mihrab have extremely detailed decorations. Its domes, which attract attention when seen from the courtyard, and its hexagonal-shaped sophisticated fountain, which is not used today, are among the highlights.In the meantime, since the fountain is not used, those who want to pray can take their ablutions from the taps lined up side by side outside the mosque.</html>

Topkapi palace

Topkapı Palace is the place that is associated with Hagia Sophia, is one of the most important symbols of Istanbul, and is home to almost every member of the Ottoman Dynasty after the conquest.Topkapı Palace, one of the first places that comes to mind when Istanbul is mentioned, welcomes thousands of visitors every day with all its majesty, despite its age of 500 years. Having a natural splendor with its location in Sarayburnu, Topkapı Palace received the title of 'Saray-ı Cedid', which means 'New Palace', by Fatih Sultan Mehmet because it was the second palace built after the conquest of Istanbul, but later on, Topkapusu Beach Palace was burned down. got its name.Topkapi Palace, which took 18 years to build and opened for use in 1478, continued to develop and grow for centuries with the Ottoman state philosophy. Even Mimar Sinan, the famous architect of the 16th century, added only one building to this rather modest structure.The palace, which is surrounded by the walls called 'Sur-ı Sultani' on land, is surrounded by Byzantine walls from the sea. An important part of Topkapı Palace, located on an area of 700 thousand square meters, is reserved for Hasbahçe. The palace, which mainly consists of two organizations as Birun and Enderun; In addition to the three main gates called Babüsselam, Bab-ı Hümayun and Babüssaade; The Harem consists of Hasbahçe, that is, Gülhane, and four courtyards.With the end of the Ottoman monarchy in 1922, this place was transformed into a palace-museum by the order of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and opened on April 3, 1924.

Yerebatan Cistern

<html>Cisterns were structures built thousands of years ago to take advantage of rain or water transferred by aqueducts from nearby sources. Some examples of such structures dating from the time of the Byzantine Empire can be visited in Istanbul today. Yerebatan Cistern is one of the most interesting examples of these structures. It is located near Sultanahmet Square in Fatih district.Interpreted as an engineering genius, it is believed that the Yerebatan Cistern was built on the site of a smaller cistern. The date of construction is 532. It was built by the emperor of the period, Justinianos, to meet the water needs of the Great Palace nearby. Built on a total area of 9,800 square meters, the cistern was based on the storage of water brought from the Belgrade forests in the north of the city through the Bozdogan Aqueduct. Today, about 3 in 2 of its original width can be seen. Other parts are closed. The situation of the yeraltı (underground) cistern during the Ottoman rule after the conquest of the city in 1453 is quite interesting. The existence of this structure was not known until the mid-1500s. It has been revealed by chance. The Yerebatan Cistern, which can be visited within certain hours, welcomes you with classical music. Music melodies mixed with the sound of water drops flowing from its ceiling supported by 336 columns, each of which is 8 meters high, add value to the ambiance. There are also ritual-based habits, such as throwing coins into the section called the wishing well. The Yerebatan Cistern, which attracts attention with its lighting elements, is waiting for your visit with its size and striking visuals.</html>

Galata Tower

<html>The Galata Tower is undoubtedly among the most special and gorgeous spots in İstabul. The fact that it is right at the heart of the city and can be seen from various points adds to its glory. This historical place which has always been visited by domestic and foreign tourists is one of the prominent figures used in the promotional video of İstanbul. The Galata Tower finds itself a spot in many logos and posters. In a sense, it is among the symbols of a big and special city such as İstanbul. The Galata Tower is one of the firsts to come to mind when it is about the historical spots in the city and it was home to many stories in the history. This place also witnessed endless battles and raids. The historical tower which has managed to survive despite all the incidents that happened in the past was built in 528. Initially, it was far from its current location. When it was first built, it was intended to be a lighthouse. The tower, which was entirely made of wood, played a significant role in guiding sailors. The initial tower was buried in history with the Latin invasions in the 13th century. In 1348, the Genoese reconstructed the tower. This time, stone masonry was used and it was expected to provide assistance to the defense of the city. With the conquest of İstanbul, expectations were higher from this place.The Galata Tower which had an important mission of defense and surveillance also hosted shipyard captives in the 1500s. It was even suggested to build an observatory here. The Byzantine used to call this place “Megalos Pyrgos” which means big tower. It is also suggested that the name of the tower was derived from the term Gala which means milk in Greek. When you climb the 77 meter high tower, you will witness an amazing İstanbul view.</html>

Istiklal Avenue

<html>Istiklal Avenue is a very long street that is closed to vehicle traffic in Beyoglu district on the European Side of Istanbul.The historical buildings that started to be built at the end of the 19th century on both sides of Istiklal Avenue, which was formerly called "Grand Rue de Pera" and has a length of approximately 2.5 kilometers from Taksim Square to Tunel, are spectacular. Istiklal Avenue, which is a kind of open-air museum that keeps the traces of history with its stylish doors and windows, is like an open-air shopping center with many famous brands today.The Republic Monument, Galatasaray High School, Pera Museum, Saint Pierre Church, Panagia Church, Santa Maria Draperis Church dated 1789, The Armenian Church, Pera Palas Hotel dated 1892, Galata Mevlevi Lodge, Tunel Square, Hussein Agha Mosque, Cicek Pasaji (Flower Passage), and Swedish, Russian, Dutch, French and British Consulates are just a few of the must-see points on Istiklal Avenue.In addition to the shopping opportunities, the place where there is the opportunity to reach the tastes suitable for palatal delights along the avenue, although in a small number, it also includes modern shopping centers.In general, Istiklal Avenue is a cosmopolitan attraction center where there is a bright and intense circulation. It is full of surprises with its various shops and passages. Its back streets that are surrounded by churches and various entertainment venues are quite interesting and waits for being explored. Besides, Istiklal Avenue is often called "The Heart of Istanbul".</html>

Pera Palace

<html>How could a traveler who sets out to tell about Istanbul would pass through the city without seeing the Pera Palace? Pera Palace, one of the symbols of Beyoğlu, one of the historical districts, is a cultural value accepted as a "museum hotel". This historical heritage is one of the very special buildings that complement the atmosphere of the city.Pera Palace, whose construction was completed in 1805, was built based on the lack of a hotel that could provide high-profile service at European standards, was the first building to be supplied with electricity, except for palaces. The first electric elevator was built in Pera Palace. It was also the first building in Istanbul with hot water running from its taps. It became an attractive center with the effects of the Golden Horn view and its central location. However, the years of war were coming and it took a break from its glory during World War I, but an element that still exists today would come to light.Founder and First President of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk began to frequently stay at the Pera Palace starting from 1917 and onward. In this respect, today Pera Palace; as a museum-hotel where Atatürk's personal belongings are exhibited, with its striking room numbered 101, can be visited every day within certain hours.Pera Palace, which returned to its old days after the war, is a sophisticated building with a neoclassicist approach, bearing the signature of the architect Alexander Vallaury. It consists of two basements, an entrance and six floors above it, rising on a floor area measuring approximately 50 meters x 30 meters. The large hall on the ground floor attracts attention. In Pera Palace, which has more than 100 rooms, the room where the famous author Agatha Christie stayed and the first electric elevator are also among the interesting sections.Pera Palace, which serves as a hotel and museum today, is also famous for its patisserie, bar and restaurant. You should definitely see the Agatha Restaurant, Orient Bar and Patisserie de Pera.</html>

Dolmabahçe Palace

Ottoman Sultan II. The Ottoman palace, which was started to be built by Mahmut in 1843, was established on the shore of the Bosphorus on an area of 250.000 m². According to what history books, chroniclers and Evliya Çelebi tell us, Yavuz Sultan Selim had a mansion built in the same place before the palace was built. This area was filled with stones during the reign of Ahmet I, and the same mansion was enlarged. The construction of the palace, which started in 1843, was completed in 1856. It was used as the Presidential residence with the proclamation of the Republic. Dolmabahçe Palace has a special importance in terms of witnessing history, as it is the place where Gazi Mustafa Kemal ATATÜRK, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, spent his last days and died on November 10, 1938. Located on the European side of the Bosphorus, within the borders of Beşiktaş district today, the palace has a length of 600 meters by the Bosphorus. As a reflection of European architectural styles, it was built by Garabet Amira Balyan from the Balyan family, who also designed many works in Istanbul, and his son Nigoğos Balyan. According to the news in the newspaper Ceride-i Havadis, the opening ceremony of the palace took place after the Treaty of Paris signed with the Russian Empire on March 30, 1856. Although Dolmabahçe Palace does not have an architectural design that directly falls into a unique school, a unique work has been created by blending French Baroque, German Rococo, English Neo Classicism, Italian Renaissance architectural style, style and inspirations. There are 285 rooms and 43 halls in the palace, which was built as three floors. The 56-columned reception hall and the 4.5-ton crystal chandelier illuminated by 750 lights in this hall are among the most interesting parts of the palace. This hall has the distinction of being the largest and the largest ballroom among the palaces in the world.

Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı)

<html>The Grand Bazaar is one of the most famous sightseeing and shopping locations in Istanbul. One of the most famous entrance gates is located a few hundred meters from Beyazıt Square. However, it is not easy to predict when and where you will come out in this historical market that resembles labyrinths.The Grand Bazaar, which attracts attention with its painted arches, was built by the Ottoman Sultan Fatih Sultan Mehmet immediately after the conquest of Istanbul. It is almost 600 years old… The covered bazaar is always crowded. In the place where small shops resembling kiosks are predominant, large-scale sales points are also in a considerable size.While the sellers, who are at the top of the sales techniques, take place in the shops side by side, the Grand Bazaar is adorned with souvenirs with authentic motifs and countless products that reflect the Turkish culture. In the bazaar, where shopping is possible in almost every language, almost all of the sellers have the capacity to sell or even bargain in languages such as English, German, Arabic, and Russian.Jewelry and silver shops can be visited in the Grand Bazaar, where various products can be purchased, by entering the Nuruosmaniye Gate, Mahmut Pasha Gate, and Beyazıt Gate entrances. At the Beyazıt Gate, tanned leather and denim products stand out, home appliances and souvenirs are lined up in rows.Traditional items such as carpets, brass coffee pots came from Central Asia and Turkey's various cities have also covered the four sides of the Grand Bazaar, and it is particularly famous for its goldsmiths. This Bazaar is also known as a gold exchange in Turkey and also has bank branches, a post office, and a police station. In addition, there are also places where you can have tea and coffee at some points such as "Şark Kahvesi".</html>

Pierre Loti Hill

<html>Eyüp district, which is a quiet contemplation area, is located to the north of the Golden Horn coasts, which divide the European Side of Istanbul into two. In the spiritually important area where the shrine of Eyüp Ensari, the flagman of Muhammed, is located; the hill where the Eyüp Cemetery rests draws attention. Pierre Loti Hill can be reached by electric vehicles called funiculars or by a 15-20 minute walk along a street starting from Eyüp Sultan Mosque, with its viewing terrace offering a wide view of the Golden Horn. Besides its view, this place is home to one of the most famous coffeehouses in the city. Drawing attention with its Ottoman style decoration, Pierre Loti Coffeehouse is flooded with visitors especially in good weather. In the elegant place with its staff dressed in 19th century clothing serving you, you can have an ice cream or taste beverages like Turkish coffee, tea, ayran and soft drinks while enjoying the view. There are also businesses such as hotels and cafes on the Pierre Loti Hill, which promises a panoramic view. It also possible to see many spiritually important places that are nearby such as the Mihrişah Valide Sultan Islamic-Ottoman Social Complex and the Sokullu Mehmet Pasha Shrine while you’re already on the hill. </html>

Galataport

Galataport is an urban transformation/destination project located on the 1.2 kilometer coastline between the Istanbul Karaköy Ferry Terminal and the building belonging to Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University Fındıklı Campus in Karaköy, an important part of Galata, founded by Genoese people in the 12th century. Warehouses were built in this region, which has been the most important industrial transportation and transportation area of Istanbul since the 1900s, but after the region was declared a tourism center in 1982 and the customs port lost its functions, the region was declared an Urban Protected Area. It started to become active in the 2000s and then started to host Istanbul Modern, Turkey's first modern art museum, which opened in 2004. It was also the only point in Istanbul where cruise ships anchored. The project, which aims to open the coastline, which has been closed to the public for many years, is planned with an investment amount of 1.7 billion dollars, as the main function of the cruise terminal on the Bosphorus, and the waiting areas and ticketing counters serving it. Galataport, which was designed in the concept of a neighborhood with its low-rise buildings in accordance with the historical texture, also has extensive transportation opportunities and an underground terminal, which was implemented for the first time in the world. It is predicted that it will host a total of 25 million visitors annually, 7 million of which are foreigners, and 1.5 million cruise passengers will visit Istanbul. Galataport, which is expected to make an additional contribution of 5 billion dollars only to the tourism sector, was opened in October 2021 and started to offer a culture-art, working, shopping and eating and drinking experience for all its domestic and foreign visitors.

Fatih Mosque and Complex

<html>Fatih Mosque and Complex is a building that will amaze you with its brilliance as soon as you see it. Located in the heart of the Fatih district of Istanbul, on Fevzi Pasa Street, the building also gives its name to the region where it is located.The Fatih Mosque and Complex was built by the Ottoman sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, who conquered Istanbul and later took the title of "Conqueror". The mosque and complex, completed in 1470, constitute an example of urban planning so to say, with its large courtyard, large mosque, eight madrasahs focused on higher education, a tabhane (an institution in Ottoman times which functioned as a house of rest) where food is distributed to the needy, a support-based almshouse, hospital, caravanserai, ottoman elementary-primary school, library, and bath.Compared to Hagia Sophia, its mosque was destroyed as a result of the great earthquake in 1766. The place of worship, which was asked to be rebuilt by Sultan Mustafa III without wasting time, was completed in 1771 and reopened as a result of hard work. The remaining places from the first state of the complex consist of the portal, the parts of the minarets up to the first balcony and the mihrab. The magnificent mosque courtyard and the mosque itself, adjacent to the portal, in the Fatih Mosque and Complex, which has been repaired and restored again, draw attention.The large dome of the mosque with a diameter of 26 meters, the half-dome of the same diameter to the east supporting it, its fountain, panels, decorations, arches, and the corridors to the north and south are among the highlights. In the part called hunkar mahfili, where the sultans perform the salaat, there are tea offerings from time to time in order to spread Turkish hospitality today.You can see the baroque style tomb of Mehmed the Conqueror and classical style tomb of Gulbahar, who is his wife, in the cemetery behind the mosque. You can explore the library built by Mahmut II, the madrasahs that are exactly the same as the original, and the stunning 46-domed tabhane with its successful restoration. Also, here, opposite the tabhane, you can also visit the baroque-empire style building and the attractive tomb of Naksidil Valide Sultan, the wife of Sultan Abdulhamid I. Hosting other tombs, The Fatih Mosque and Complex are among the morally important places of the city.</html>

Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion

<html>Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion, which has a splendid location on the shores of the Marmara Sea and is shown among the landmark places of Istanbul, is located between Kucukcekmece and Yesilkoy. This historical mansion, located within the borders of Senlikkoy Neighbourhood of Bakirkoy district of Istanbul, was built by the Istanbul Municipality during the Ataturk period, it is also known as the "Florya Ataturk Forest" today.The architect who designed the Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion, whose history dates to 1935, is Seyfi Arkan, one of the famous names of the period. The mansion, which the Mayor of Istanbul delivered to Ataturk personally, is among the most popular buildings of Florya. Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion, which also serves with a seafront restaurant today, can be shown as one of the most important historical buildings to be photographed.Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion, which is used as a public park as of today, serves as a place where you can eat and drink in the restaurant and travel in time by visiting the mansion. The visiting hours of the historical mansion, where the entrance is paid, are 09:00-17:00.Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion, whose construction was completed in a short period of 43 days, was also used as the summer residence of the Presidency of the Republic of Turkey during the periods of Kenan Evren, Fahri Koruturk, Cevdet Sunay, Cemal Gursel, Celal Bayar, and Ismet Inonu. The mansion, which is a single-storey building, has attracted great attention from the past to the present, as it is located near the Florya public beach. More than one restoration work was also carried out in Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion, which is 70 meters from the beach. It is possible to visit the mansion, where there are areas such as a library, recreation rooms, and a large hall, at certain hours.</html>

Maiden’s Tower

<html>The history of the Anatolian Side of Istanbul goes back to the 5th century BC. With the first settlements on the shores of Üsküdar and Kadıköy, the symbol structures of the historical area open the doors to different experiences today. The Maiden's Tower standing on its island on Üsküdar offshore is the leading structure with this feature. This destination is also important as being the only structure in the district remaining from the Byzantine period.The Maiden's Tower derives its name from a tragic legend. Accordingly, an oracle tells that the young princess will die of snakebite. Then, the princess shelters in a high tower in the middle of the sea, which the snakes cannot reach. One day, she is killed by a snake coming out of the basket full of figs taken to her because she cannot escape from her fate.This tower was constructed in the 18th century, during the Ottoman Empire reign, on the small castle's remainings built by Byzantine Emperor Kommenos I, and it was used for various purposes for a long time. After serving as a lighthouse for a few centuries and a checkpoint where the ships paid the pass fee, the tower has become a destination functioning for touristic purposes.The Maiden's Tower is accessible with boats leaving from Salacak and Kabataş between certain hours. In addition to its museum section, it is a popular restaurant and night club open all day long.</html>

Haydarpasa Train Station

The historical Haydarpaşa Train Station, which is literally one of the symbolic places of Istanbul, has been standing for years with all its splendor. The station, which started to serve again with a successful restoration process, despite the fact that its roof burned down recently, has managed to host many TV series and cinema productions until today. The construction of this impressive place, which has a very aesthetic appearance, took place in 1906. II. Haydarpaşa Train Station, which was started to be built during the reign of Abdülhamit, was completed in two years. Its construction was undertaken by a German company at that time. III. The name of Haydar Pasha, a pasha of Selim, is given here. It is planned as the starting point of the railway between Istanbul and Baghdad. In the last periods of the Ottoman Empire, more emphasis was placed on the Hejaz expeditions. It is currently considered a base station for TCDD. On the other hand, it contributes to the urban transportation to some extent with its suburban services.The most important advantage of Haydarpaşa Station is its special location by the sea. The architectural details of the place, which can be seen from many places, evoke a sense of admiration. Italian stonemasons also support the project implementation processes of the historical station, which also has an important place in touristic visits. It took its first big blow with a big fire in 1917. In 1979, a tanker and a ship collided near Haydarpaşa. After this accident, it was repaired and restored to its present form.Haydarpaşa Train Station, whose architecture is still shown with fingers, greets all of Istanbul with its wonderful view. The station, which always finds its place in the promotional films of the city, reflects the classical German architecture. When looking at the building from a bird's eye view, it can be observed that it has an appearance resembling the letter "U". It is estimated that the station, which was built on a total of 100 thousand wooden piles, will not collapse even in a very severe earthquake.

Bayezid Mosque

<html>Bayezid Mosque, located next to Beyazıt Square in Istanbul, is one of the prominent religious buildings of the city. In fact, there are structures such as baths, many tombs, madrasahs and fountains around the mosque, which is located in a social complex. Bayezid Mosque was built by Bayezid II. the successor of the Ottoman Sultan known as Fatih Sultan Mehmet. The building, the construction of which began in 1501, was completed in 1505. Bayezid Mosque, which is considered as an important masterpiece contributing to the development of Turkish architecture and as one of the best examples of classical Ottoman architectural style, is also qualified as the oldest among the great mosques built by the sultans.The entrance of the mosque is situated in a beautiful courtyard surrounded by 20 ancient columns and decorated with multicolored marble stones on the floor… The mosque, which draws attention by its fountain with a sophisticated design, has a large capacity of visitors with its courtyard that also hosts peddlers today.Bayezid Mosque, where the central dome with a diameter of 17 meters, smaller domes on both sides and arches divided into four parts leap to the eye as soon as you enter, has a very symmetrical appearance with its square plan.Bayezid Mosque also fascinates people through its two minarets decorated with geometric patterns, the library that was included in the building in the 18th century, and the magnificent stance it created with the sultan's gathering-place.</html>

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

<html>The historical Eyüp Sultan Mosque, located in Eyüpsultan district in Istanbul, is situated on the shores of the Golden Horn. Having such an advantageous location provides the opportunity to the structure to be visited by both the domestic and the foreign tourists throughout the year. The fountain with the water tank of the historical mosque, in particular, attracts attention in the first place. The altar or the shrine part of this fountain, evoking admiration, has a protrusive structure. This place has also planned in a rectangular form. Eyüp Sultan Tomb stands out right in the middle of the structure. The mosque has an age-long plane tree in the center of its courtyard.Eyüp Sultan Mosque has undergone numerous restoration and repair works since the 15th century. The minarets of the mosque were higher at the early periods than the present time. Sinan Pasha Pavilion located right in front of the main door was demolished by the end of 18th century. The plane tree rises right on this location. The plane tree is enclosed by a guardrail. 4 fountains are located at each corner of this guardrail. These small fountains are used to meet the water requirement and also as wishing well fountain. Sultan Selim III used to perform the salaat in here after the completion of the major repair works. As he was a Mevlevi, Mevlevi coins are available on the guardrail in here. The courtyard is accessed through two separate gates. Inner courtyard has 13 domes. Only a single dome is located at the tomb section. In front of the final congregation place, a portico is located with six columns and seven domes. The main door built of marble material has an epitaph consisting of 9 verses just above the door. Particularly, cypress and tombs make the surroundings of the historical place of worship even more substantial and noteworthy. Eyüp Sultan Municipality includes this mosque in its official logo.</html>

Balat Bazaar

Balat, one of the most enigmatic and popular districts of Istanbul, stands out with its bazaar, which reflects the texture of the district in the best way. Known as the Balat Bazaar among the locals, this place is the center of attention for photography lovers rather than shopping enthusiasts.Balat Bazaar started to become popular after the establishment of shops in the region that turned into a district with the settlement of Jews trying to get rid of the Spanish Inquisition in 1492. It would be wrong to think that Leblebiciler Street is the most popular spot of Balat Bazaar, where almost everything is deceived in the name of the street where everything is old-fashioned and that there are only roasted chickpeas in it. So much so that it is possible to find everything you are looking for in the street where there is a pharmacy, tailor, butcher, candy store, shoe repair shop, bakery and more.In this sense, it is of great importance to visit the shops of these artisans in the Balat Bazaar Leblebiciler Street, where we have forgotten even the name, where the old crafts are still being performed and all these are carried out with great difficulties. Balat Bazaar is a place where you can spend a whole day with pleasure, with colorful shops and materials, and every frame looks beautiful and eccentric as if it were a fairy tale.You can get away from the cosmopolitan life and literally be teleported to the old streets of Istanbul in an instant by entering the back streets of the Balat Bazaar, where you can see the colorful old houses with bay windows, which are generally two or three floors, and photograph the ones you like.

Great Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque)

<html>The historical building, generally known as Ortaköy Mosque but the real name of which is Great Mecidiye Mosque, is located within the borders of Ortaköy quarter of Beşiktaş district of Istanbul. Great Mecidiye Mosque with a typical neo baroque style architecture, was built by Nigoğos Balyan, the architect by the request of Sultan Abdülmecid in 1853.In addition to its Baroque style, the Great Mecidiye Mosque, which stands out with its central location on the Bosphorus, has two separate sections, consisting of the sultan and the harem, just like other selatin mosques (it is the name given to the mosques built by the sultans during the Ottoman Empire). Another detail that adds beauty to this historical building, which provides the unique beauty of the Bosphorus and a photo of it is taken by every local and foreign tourist coming to Istanbul without exception, is the wide and high windows. The Great Mecidiye Mosque, reached by stairs, is of great interest due to its walls made of white face stone in addition to having two minarets with a single minaret balcony. The pulpit of the Great Mecidiye Mosque, the mihrab of which is made of marble and mosaic and is definitely worth seeing, is also made of famous covered marble. One of the greatest restorations of the Great Mecidiye Mosque, where you will encounter fine workmanship in every part, is the restoration carried out by the General Directorate of Foundations between 2011 and 2014. The Great Mecidiye Mosque, which was built in 1853 and opened to worship in 1854, has a dome and two minarets. The Great Mecidiye Mosque, which is open to worship and visits currently and is located at one of the points offering perhaps the most beautiful Bosphorus view in Istanbul, is still considered among the most touristic architectures of the city.</html>

Rumeli Fortress

<html>Rumeli Fortress is between Baltalimanı and Bebek, on the European side of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (also known as the 3rd Bridge), which connects Europe and Asia. It is within the boundaries of Sarıyer district. It was a military fortress built by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror before he conquered Istanbul. It was built in the last phase of the Middle Ages, one year before the Byzantine Empire vanished into history.It was a building that, with the Anatolian Fortress right across it, aimed to cut the Istanbul-Black Sea connection, causing a serious blow to the Byzantine Empire's all communication and assistance opportunities that could come from the north. The base where the Janissaries were stationed targeted the ships that wanted to enter the Bosporus from the Black Sea with artillery fire. With a sunken Venetian ship, the hopes of supporting Byzantium from the north by sea had also ended.After the conquest of the city in 1453, it lost all its military function. After this date, it was used as a prison. Especially foreign ambassadors and prisoners of war were kept here. The Rumeli Fortress, located in a deep valley with its asymmetrical dimensions of 250x150 meters, has three big towers and high bastions. In an inscription in Arabic script there is information indicating that its construction was completed in “H. Recep 856” or 1452.As part of the celebrations held in honor of the 500th anniversary of the conquest of Istanbul, the Rumeli Fortress was renovated in 1953 and was transformed into a stage and park area where concerts were held until 2008. However, today it is closed to activities because it may damage the historical structure. It offers the function of an open air museum; and cannons used in the conquest can be seen. Behind the scene covered with plants, there is also a mosque ruin that keeps the historical atmosphere alive.</html>

Egyptian Bazaar

<html>Eminönü ranks first among Istanbul's favorite sightseeing and shopping spots. Located in this area, surrounded by various amenities in different concepts with distances within walking distance, the Egyptian Bazaar is undoubtedly one of the most popular locations here.The bazaar was built in 1664 as part of the Yeni Cami complex next to it. . The Egyptian Bazaar, which can be entered via the street extending from the side of the mosque built by Sultan Mehmet IV's mother, or through Cami Meydanı Street just in front of it, is quite colorful. The structure, which resembles a L-shaped maze, is also known as the’ Spice Bazaar'. Although there are various kinds of food items, the fact that mostly spice seller shops continue in the same way as centuries ago.The Egyptian Bazaar is full of authentic delicacies. Turkish delights, desserts, pulses, medicinal herbs, honey, and products such as pastrami, nuts are among the sine qua non. Teas offered for sale at colorful stalls should also not be missed. The variety of products sold is so great that it is possible to find everything from toys to aphrodisiacs. In the courtyard there are places where you can take a break and drink your tea or coffee.The ferry piers in front of it, the sounds of seagulls, the Galata Bridge, the glamorous Rüstem Paşa Mosque that is a few streets away, the street vendors, tram crossings, and heavy human traffic is almost an invitation to explore the Egyptian Bazaar step by step.</html>

Suleymaniye Mosque

Mimar Sinan's "Travelman is my work." Suleymaniye Mosque, which he called the Suleymaniye Mosque, is one of the strongest architectural structures in Istanbul. The mosque, which was even shown as the 'power symbol' of the Ottoman Empire for a period, is 464 years old by 2021; It is the building block of the Süleymaniye Complex, which originally consisted of madrasas, library, primary school, hospital, burial ground, soup kitchen and shops.Suleymaniye Mosque, which survived the most severe earthquakes in Istanbul without a crack, is shown as the number one shelter for the expected great Istanbul earthquake even today.The building, which was started to be built by Mimar Sinan in 1550 with the order of Suleiman the Magnificent, and there are almost countless rumors about it, was completed after seven years of feverish work. It is rumored that the mosque, which did not start the construction phase for the first five years to strengthen its foundation, because it was on a sloping ground, even caused misunderstandings while it was going to be the symbol of power of the Ottomans.Suleymaniye Mosque, which has the title of being the first mosque with business rooms in the world, the acoustics of which were provided with pickle jars in the first years, and the chandeliers of which ostrich eggs were placed on its lamps so that spiders would not come on; It houses the most important statesmen of the 15th and 16th centuries of the Ottoman Empire, especially Suleiman the Magnificent.The shops around the mosque, which stood out as an example of city planning in the first years of its completion with its incongruous courtyard, spacious interior and surrounding structures, continue to maintain their functionality for centuries.Suleymaniye Mosque, which does not leave its visitors hungry with its restaurants that make the most delicious dry beans you can eat in the world, besides what your mother makes, provides a complete integrity with the Mimar Sinan Tomb, which is located right in front of its door and is quite modest compared to itself.

Yıldız Malta Pavilion

<html>Malta Pavilion which was built by Sultan Abdülaziz in 1871 in the area that forms the backyard of Çırağan Palace, is located on the left side of Yıldız Park in Beşiktaş district of Istanbul. Especially the area on the seaside of the Pavilion that is intertwined with nature has been called ‘Yıldız Park’. The pavilion served many different purposes, from the bakery to the museum. Malta Pavilion, which has been the scene of important events in history, was built with two floors from the basement with three sections. Although the story of its name is not known exactly, it is thought that it may have received this name because it was built with stones brought from Malta.The pavilion, which is one of the later added parts of the Yıldız Palace and can be examined together with many structures in a wide area, is remarkable for its elegant decorations and gold leaf mirror. Additionally, the intensity of the use of marble fish pattern will also catch your eyes.You can have a pleasant breakfast with your family or friends watching the magnificent view of the Bosphorus at the Malta Pavilion in Yıldız Park which is one of the first places that comes to mind especially in sunny weather.</html>

Gulhane Park

The historical Gülhane Park, which is the subject of poems and songs, is defined as the "lung of the peninsula". Offering an extremely colorful atmosphere, Gülhane Park is among the favorite places of Istanbul. It is very easy to reach Gülhane Park. When you come here, you will be greeted by colorful flowers, grand trees and bird sounds. The history of the park, which gives the opportunity to get away from the noise of the city, is quite remarkable.The park, which has a total of 163 acres of land, served as the University of Constantinople in the 700s. In the Ottoman period, the region was considered as the outer garden of Topkapı Palace in a sense. Gülhane Park is full of rose gardens in its early periods. For this reason, many sultans in the Ottoman Empire like to wander around this grove. In the early 1460s, Fatih Sultan Mehmet brought the first rose here. The place takes its name from these roses anyway. The most radical change regarding the park took place in 1912. With this change, the park is opened to public use.One of the first figures that comes to mind when "Gülhane Park" is mentioned is the Tanzimat Fermanı; because the Grand Vizier Mustafa Reşit Pasha announces the Tanzimat Edict exactly here. For this reason, this edict is also referred to as "Gülhane Hatt-ı Hümayunu" in some sources. A tulip festival is also organized here every year. If you want to explore Gülhane Park, try to coincide with the festival periods. The festival is usually held in April. Extremely impressive images emerge.The poet Nazım Hikmet gives place to this special place very often. When an arrest warrant is issued for him, he begins to live here as a fugitive for a while. He and his girlfriend make an agreement to meet in this park one day. According to the reports, while Nazım was waiting for his lover, the police were walking around the park. The great master Nazım Hikmet then had to climb a large walnut tree in Gülhane Park. It is known that Nazım wrote his famous poem on this event.

Beyazıt Square is one of the most important squares of Istanbul, which has a rich historical and cultural past. This square, which was built as the largest square of the city by Emperor Theodosius in 393 AD, has witnessed many important events throughout history. This area, known as the "Form Tauri Square" in the Middle Ages, was a place where a giant-sized triumphal arch and bronze bull heads were located. During the Ottoman period, Beyazıt Square had great political and commercial importance. During this period, important buildings such as Beyazıt Social Complex were built around the square. Social Complex, II. Beyazıt Mosque, built by Bayezid and the oldest preserved sultan mosque in Istanbul, consisted of a madrasah, soup kitchen and a bath. The architecture of Beyazıt Mosque is supported by a central dome and semi-domes, similar to Hagia Sophia. Its proximity to the Grand Bazaar, which shows that the square was the center of commercial and social life during the Ottoman period, is also important. Beyazıt Square, which maintained its importance during the Republican period, was built in the middle of a decorative fountain with the initiatives of Governor Ali Haydar Bey in the 1920s, and was later developed with transportation networks such as a tram line. As part of the infrastructure projects carried out during the Democratic Party period in the 1950s, the square was rearranged and a road junction was built. Today, Beyazıt Square is considered an important tourist center for local and foreign tourists. The square hosts important cultural and educational institutions such as Istanbul University, Beyazıt State Library and Sahaflar Çarşısı. Additionally, the square contains a road leading to the Grand Bazaar, making it an important place in the commercial life of Istanbul. Madrasahs, schools, historical bazaars and shopping malls around Beyazıt Square offer the cultural and historical richness of the city to visitors.

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