MERHABA ISTANBUL

MERHABA ISTANBUL

Turkey is a fascinating country. Istanbul, where West meets East over the Bosphorus, is the prelude to fascination with Turkey.

Istanbul, the city of mosques, palaces, bazaars, restaurants, waterways and parks, can be proud of its history and architecture.  

Sultanahmet, the old town, is a marvel of history at every step. Topkapi Palace through which walls Ottoman soldiers entered Istanbul, known back in 1453 as Constantinople, and changed Byzantium into Ottoman Empire, was a royal residence for over 600 years. Now is a museum holding royal jewels, riches and treasures on display. Panorama 1453 History Museum illustrates the conquest of Constantinople.

Sultanahmet is also the location of Hagia Sophia, blue tiled Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in the mid 500s, fountains and obelisks.

Crossing of Galata Bridge on the junction of Bosphorus and Golden Horn, brings one to a steep ascent through narrow medieval streets to Galata Tower built in 1348. It is a replica of old Galata Tower destroyed by the Crusaders in 1204. Built from medieval stone, Galata Tower still dominates the skyline of Istanbul today.

Dolmabahce Palace is relatively new comparing to many ancient treasures of Istanbul. It dates from mid 1800, was and administrative center of Ottoman Empire and a residence of Sultans and Caliphs till early 1900s.

Even after Turkey became a Republic, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk lived there. The Clock Tower is guarding entry to Dolmabahce Palace.

Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest markets in the world, is a competition to any shopping mall and offers many oriental goods and delicious food, Turkish Delight being a “finger licking” true sweet delight. Leather accessories, jewelry,shoes, clothes and souvenirs are on display glistening with color and sparkling gold.

Istanbul with its unique cuisine is the joy not only for history and architecture lovers. The tastes of its culinary delights are an additional attraction.