A few glimpses into the ancient grandeur of Istanbul!

in hive-185836 •  3 months ago  (edited)

I am in a bit of a dilemma about how to cover my travel diary... Should I go day-wise or place-wise? Well, I have reached the conclusion that I will do it by places, because we have passed through some of them multiple times.

I am greatly impressed by the grandeur of Turkish architecture. I will share pictures of mosques from Istanbul and Bursa, as well as a few palaces, but likely in separate posts. I have already covered Taksim Square and the Galata Tower in a previous post from this Turkish series. The format will be straightforward: I will caption each place but won’t go into too much detail.

Today is all about Istanbul. So, let's take you to a virtual tour.

Hagia Sophia:

Originally built as a Byzantine cathedral in 537 AD, Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel that has stood the test of time. Its immense dome and rich history as both a mosque and a museum reflect the city's diverse cultural heritage. Today, it serves as a mosque again, attracting visitors from around the world.

Here are a few glimpses of this magnificent architectural wonder—captured by day, by night, and from within.

1000073824.jpg
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosqu Istanbul, Turkey

1000073585.jpg
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosqu Istanbul, Turkey

1000073589.jpg
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosqu Istanbul, Turkey

1000073590.jpg
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosqu Istanbul, Turkey

1000073595.jpg
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque Istanbul, Turkey

1000073596.jpg
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosqu Istanbul, Turkey

1000071507.jpg

I was captivated by the city's vibrant energy and rich history. And just for a change, here's my picture in blue. I hope you’re not just scrolling through. Lol. Blue before Blue mosque to grasp your attention ;))

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque):

Completed in 1616, the Blue Mosque is renowned for its stunning blue-tiled interior and six towering minarets. A masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, it stands as one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, blending elegance with spiritual significance.

A variety of perspectives showcasing the mosque from different angles—its domes, ceilings, and both the interior and exterior details.

1000073588.jpg
Blue mosque, Istanbul Turkey

1000074048.jpg
Blue mosque, Istanbul Turkey

1000074047.jpg
Blue mosque, Istanbul Turkey

1000074046.jpg
Blue mosque, Istanbul Turkey

1000074044.jpg
Blue mosque, Istanbul Turkey

1000073592.jpg
Blue mosque, Istanbul Turkey

I saw something interesting when leaving the Blue Mosque: a German fountain?

Well have a look yourself:

1000074096.jpg

The fountain was a gift from the German Emperor Wilhelm II to the Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamid II in 1900. It was built to commemorate the alliance between Germany and the Ottoman Empire. The design of the fountain is a blend of Ottoman and German architectural styles, showcasing intricate mosaic tiles and a domed structure.

Originally, the fountain was placed in the Hippodrome of Constantinople (now Sultanahmet Square) but was later moved to its current location. It remains a prominent landmark and a symbol of the historical relationship between the two empires.

Beyazıt Mosque:

Built between 1501 and 1506, Beyazıt Mosque is one of Istanbul's oldest imperial mosques. Its design blends traditional Ottoman and Byzantine elements, featuring a grand central dome and a serene courtyard. Nestled in the heart of Istanbul, it stands as a symbol of both faith and history.

1000071533.jpg
Beyazıt Mosque, Istanbul Turkey

1000071537.jpg
Beyazıt Mosque, Istanbul Turkey

1000073952.jpg

Dolmabahçe Mosque, Istanbul Turkey

Gülhane Park:

Once the outer garden of Topkapi Palace, Gülhane Park is one of Istanbul's oldest and most picturesque parks. With its sprawling lawns, tree-lined walkways, and historic significance, it offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the bustling city. The park is especially loved for its beautiful tulip displays in spring and its breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.

1000071607.jpg
Gulhane park, Istanbul: me trying to be chic

1000071594.jpg

Bronze statue of Kemal Ataturk founder of modern Turkey in Gulhane park, Istanbul

1000074081.jpg
Sultanahmet Square

This carving is part of the Hippodrome of Constantinople, located in Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul. The Hippodrome was an ancient sporting and social center of Constantinople, where chariot races and public events were held.

1000074082.jpg
Sultanahmet Square


I tried to show you a bit through my camera’s eye. This is my humble attempt to reveal everything I saw, though I know I can’t capture it all. I have set aside the images from Bursa for now, as their essence might be lost otherwise. So, the Bursa snapshots will unfold in the next post. And there was also a ferry on the Bosporus River in Istanbul. Ah, there is so much more to show you!

Choosing from so many photos was challenging, so I hope you will excuse any excess or omission. If only I could include every shot...

Authors get paid when people like you upvote their post.
If you enjoyed what you read here, create your account today and start earning FREE STEEM!
Sort Order:  

What an amazing place!

I bet you could spend several months there and never run out of significant landmarks to experience.

Constantinople was one of the few southern locales my own Viking ancestors would visit, to trade... 1000-1200 years ago.

Talking of Constantinople, here'sColumn of Constantine for you. I omitted it in my post:

1000074129.jpg

I bet you could spend several months there and never run out of significant landmarks to experience.

True, very true. To fully explore Istanbul’s rich history, 2 to 3 years are essential due to its deep layers as the former Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque that I have showed you in my blog, only scratch the surface. The city is filled with hidden gems, ancient ruins, and culturally diverse neighborhoods, each requiring time to truly appreciate. I think I will have to revisit many times or maybe will have to spend a year or two there ;)) who knows!

Your photos of Istanbul’s landmarks are stunning! Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are incredible. Loved the German fountain and the serene Gülhane Park shots.

Türkiye and Andalus. My two dream destinations. Even the imagination of these two places excites me. I mean what other places could have such rich history

I hope and pray that you get to visit these places:)

I am very sorry that I am late. I would like to support such a wonderful post. What an amazing place!

Sincerely,
@o1eh

Is there anything like a double support. I won't mind it...
Lol

Jokes aside thanks a lot for this message. It really means so much to me @o1eh

A little something for you: a close up of information sign about German fountain outside Blue Mosque, Istanbul

1000074323.jpg

Yours,
@soulfuldreamer

Your post is manually rewarded by the
World of Xpilar Community Curation Trail

BottoSTEEM OPERATED AND MAINTAINED BY XPILAR TEAM

BottoSteem
Robust Automations on STEEM Blockchain using the Power of AI

https://steemit.com/~witnesses vote xpilar.witness

"Become successful with @wox-helpfund!"
If you want to know more click on the link
https://steemit.com/@wox-helpfund ❤️