What to see in Istanbul?
Istanbul is one of the brightest cities not onlyTurkey, but the whole world. Thanks to its centuries-old history, today this city enjoys great popularity among tourists from all over the world. Once the capital of the Christian empire, then the capital of the Muslim, today Istanbul is a city ready for everyone to show their beautiful historical sights.
So that before the trip there are no questions about what to see in Istanbul, it will be useful to read our article and learn about the most important sights of this delightful city.
Hagia Sophia or the Hagia Sophia
One of the main attractions of Istanbulis the Cathedral of St. Sophia, built in 537 year. Until the 15th century it was the center of Orthodoxy, the temple with the largest dome in the world. When the Turks seized Constantinople, it was converted into a mosque, completing four minarets. Today it is a beautiful museum, the interior of which admires everyone.
Basil's Cistern
To store drinking water supplies by Greeks inConstantinople was built underground a huge reservoir. Decorated with 336 columns, this landmark impresses with magnificence and power. The columns are illuminated from below, creating a sense of mystery.
Topkapi Palace
The love story of the beautiful Roksolana and SuleimanMagnificent originates in the Topkapi Palace - the center of the Ottoman Empire. Here spent the hours of rest of the Sultans and their beloved wives. Today in the palace are the famous collections of armor, weapons, clothing, porcelain, jewelry.
Blue Mosque - Sultanahmet Mosque
To visit Istanbul and not see this propertyhistory, architecture and culture - inexcusable. The Blue Mosque is considered the symbol of Istanbul. It's amazing that the mosque has six minarets, not four, as is customary. This is the most beautiful and majestic center of the Muslim faith in the city with magnificent interior decoration. The painting, stained-glass windows, the beauty of the interior finish impresses and attracts the eye. The Blue Mosque is not just an architectural monument, it functions even now. Believers can not only enjoy its beauties, but also pray.
Galata Tower
Istanbul is a beautiful city, to see ita panoramic view is possible from the 61-meter tower, built in the 14th century and located in the area of the city of Galata. At the top of the ancient tower you can climb on a modern elevator.
Dolmabahce Palace
The Dolmabahce Palace, designed in the Baroque style,not peculiar to Istanbul, was built under the sultan Abdul-Meddzha I as a residence, instead of Topkapi, which he did not like. It represents a whole complex of palaces, halls and pavilions. Only 14 tons of gold were used for interior decoration alone. Since 2007 the palace is the residence of the Prime Minister of Turkey, however there are halls, access to which is open for tourists. Here are the famous works of art: a collection of paintings by Aivazovsky, which the sultan ordered personally, a chic chandelier made of Bohemian crystal - a gift from Queen Victoria.
Independence Avenue
Arriving in Istanbul, be sure to paytime to stroll or drive on the antique antique tramcar Nostalgia on the pedestrian street Istiklal - Independence Avenue. This will immerse you in the atmosphere of Turkey of the 19th century.
Travel to Istanbul will leave unforgettableimpressions and memories. Here come tourists from all over the world, at any time of the year. After all, winter in Turkey is like a cold summer in Russia. Therefore, the question of what to see in Istanbul in the winter, should not arise. Everything is the same as at another time of the year.
In addition to the above described mainThere are a lot of other mosques, towers, ancient monuments of architecture, ancient streets, bazaars and Turkish baths in the city. Try not to get past this.
About travel to European countries is described in detail in articles from the section Europe.
