[P] Istanbul. August 16th - 21st.

We had an amazing time in Istanbul (formerly known as Constantinople), Turkey. Our hotel had a fantastic view and every morning we would eat breakfast gazing at the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome. On our first day we went to the Hagia Sophia, built in 532 by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian and famous for its dome that changed architecture history. Originally built as a church, it later became a mosque, and is now a museum.

The highlight of our trip may have been taking a ferry cruise down the Bosphorus strait that divides Europe and Asia. It took turns stopping at points along each continent. We toured the Beylerbeyi Palace, a summer Ottoman residence in Asia, and viewed the Rumeli Fortress, which is built at the narrowest point of the straight on the European side and was built for a Turkish siege on the city (then Byzantine). Finally, we reached the Black Sea and were able to swim in it right off the boat!

We also visited the Topkapi Palace, which was the primary residence of Ottoman Sultans. It also houses Muhammad's sword and cloak, Moses' staff, and other holy relics. We even walked through the Harem where the Sultan's family lived, as well as concubines.

We walked by the Blue Mosque everyday. Since we were there during the time of Ramadan, the area surrounding the mosque had an air of festivity every night as families gathered to picnic at sunset. A memorable moment was when we sat in the courtyard and listened to the call of prayer that could be heard throughout the city five times a day. On one of our last days we finally ventured in. Although most of the population is Muslim, Turkey is a secular state. Due to Ataturk, all mosques allow visitors if they are dressed properly and it is not during prayer time.

We also walked through the overwhelming Old Bazaar and the tempting Spice Bazaar where we stocked up on apple tea and Turkish delight. We had grown a fondness for tea gardens, kebabs and anything lamb, and trying the food from fair-like street vendors (grilled corn, roasted chestnuts, and candy made before your eyes).

 

However, the best thing about Istanbul is that there are cats everywhere!