The Historical Peninsula

The Hagia Sophia, or Ayasofya, is a breathtaking symbol of architectural and cultural evolution, located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey. Constructed between 532 and 537 AD under Emperor Justinian I, it was originally a Byzantine cathedral and a marvel of its time, renowned for its massive dome above the vast interior. For nearly a thousand years, it stood as the spiritual center of Eastern Orthodox Christianity, decorated with detailed mosaics showing sacred Christian themes. Following the Ottoman conquest in 1453, it was transformed into a mosque by Sultan Mehmed II, with the addition of minarets and Islamic features, such as the mihrab and calligraphic panels. In 1935, the building entered a new chapter as a museum, symbolizing Turkey’s secular modernization under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, allowing its Christian and Islamic elements to be appreciated side by side. In 2020, Hagia Sophia was reconverted into a mosque by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. While it functions as a mosque today, it remains open to visitors and remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and many of its historical features, including the mosaics, can still be seen during non-prayer hours.

Topkapı Palace is a huge and stunning palace in Istanbul, Turkey, that was the main home of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. It was built in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed II after he conquered Constantinople. It became the center of government, culture, and daily life in the Ottoman Empire. The palace has many sections, including courtyards, the harem (where the sultan’s family lived), and rooms for meetings and ceremonies. Inside, visitors can see amazing collections of jewels, clothes, weapons, and religious artifacts, including items believed to belong to the Prophet Muhammad. Today, Topkapı Palace is a museum, showing the rich history and lifestyle of the Ottoman Empire and offering stunning views of the Bosporus.

The Basilica cistern, or Yerebatan Sarnıcı, is an enchanting underground marvel located in Istanbul, Turkey. Constructed in the 6th century under Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, this massive cistern once supplied water to the imperial palace and surrounding areas. Spanning an impressive 140 meters by 70 meters, it is supported by 336 marble columns, each nearly 9 meters tall, arranged in symmetrical rows. The cistern’s peaceful, dimly lit atmosphere is enhanced by the reflections of its columns in the water, creating a mystical ambiance. Among its most famous features are two Medusa head sculptures used as column bases, their origins and unusual conditions—one sideways and one upside down—stays a mystery. Originally a functional water cistern fed by aqueducts, it was rediscovered in the 16th century and has since become a fascinating tourist attraction. Today, the Basilica Cistern is not just a historical site but also a cultural venue, where its beauty continues to amaze visitors from around the world.

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Built in 1461 during the Ottoman Empire, it is like a small city, with over 4,000 shops spread across many streets. Inside, you can find a variety of goods, such as jewelry, handmade carpets, spices, leather items, and souvenirs. The bazaar is famous for its lively atmosphere, where shopkeepers invite you to bargain for the best price. The ceilings are decorated with beautiful arches and patterns, giving the market a historical charm. Visiting the Grand Bazaar is not just about shopping—it is an exciting experience where you can feel the culture and history of Istanbul all around you.

Gülhane Park is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Istanbul, near the Topkapi Palace. It is one of the oldest parks in the city and has a rich history, once being part of the palace gardens. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing walk, have a picnic, or simply sit and enjoy the fresh air. Gülhane Park also offers lovely views of the Bosphorus  and the old city walls. It’s a great spot to experience nature and history together, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Built in the early 17th century by Sultan Ahmed I, it is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful blue tiles that decorate the interior. The mosque has a large central dome surrounded by smaller domes and six tall minarets, which is unusual for mosques. Inside, visitors can see detailed patterns on the walls and colorful stained glass windows. The Blue Mosque is still used as a mosque, so it’s important to dress modestly and respect the rules when visiting.

The Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul is one of the most important and beautiful mosques in Turkey. Built between 1550 and 1557, it was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan for Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The mosque is located on one of Istanbul’s seven hills and offers a stunning view of the city. Its large dome, supported by four massive pillars, dominates the skyline. Inside, the mosque is beautifully decorated with calligraphy, stained glass windows, and detailed tiles. The Süleymaniye Mosque also has a large courtyard, a tomb for the sultan, and several other buildings like a madrasa and a hospital. The mosque is a perfect example of Ottoman architecture and remains a usable mosque today, attracting many visitors for its beauty and history.

Sultanahmet Square is a unique site in Istanbul’s historic peninsula, reflecting the legacies of both Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations. Known as the Hippodrome during the Byzantine era, it was the center of chariot races and grand ceremonies. Today, monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk preserve its ancient heritage.

During the Ottoman period, structures like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia added grandeur to the square. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area continues to captivate visitors with its historical ambiance, surrounding cafés, and cultural events. Sultanahmet Square remains the heart of Istanbul, steeped in history and culture.

The museum, established on June 13, 1891, is located in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district, near the Topkapi Palace. It was built at the request of Osman Hamdi Bey by the famous architect Alexandre Vallaury. The museum consists of three main sections:

Archaeology Museum: It displays sculptures, sarcophagi, and inscriptions from the Greek, Roman, and Hellenistic periods.

Ancient Eastern Art Museum: This section showcases important artifacts from Mesopotamia, Egypt, Anatolia, and the Levant, including pieces from Sumerian, Babylonian, Assyrian, Hittite, and Egyptian cultures.

Islamic Art Museum: It exhibits Islamic art, manuscripts, miniatures, carpets, and other handicrafts.