Istanbul is a city that is located in two continents, Europe and Asia, and therefore has a rich history, and culture. Sightseeing, crowded bazaars and other attractions will lure any tourist to the city of Istanbul. Among these, one of the most well known is perhaps the Istanbul Topkapi Palace Museum that gives a feeling of the regal lives of the Ottoman royals.
Topkapi Palace Museum: The Heart of Ottoman Splendor
If you are a tourist who has a chance to visit Istanbul, you should not miss the Topkapi Palace Museum. This huge palace was the political and residential nucleus of the Ottoman Empire for more than 400 years and is situated on the Seraglio Point on the Bosphorus. Today it is a museum, and one can see here a great number of artifacts that would give an idea of the grandeur of the empire.
The Topkapi Dagger and Spoonmaker’s Diamond are exhibited in the Imperial Treasury in the Topkapi Palace Museum that tourists visit. Another one is the Sacred Relics where the guests may view the worth coming from the religious perspective, including the Prophet’s cloak and sword. It is one of the most visited places in Istanbul with beautiful courtyards, luxurious rooms and a great view on the Bosphorus.
Hagia Sophia: Marvel: Architectural Genius
Hagia Sophia is a museum and cultural center with a wide accessibility opened for visits and a world heritage site, it is one of the most iconic significance of Istanbul. In 537 AD it was constructed as a cathedral, then after the Ottoman invasion it was converted into a mosque and later into a museum. The central dome, mosaics, and marble pillars in Hagia Sophia are entirely related to the concept of Byzantine architecture.
Blue Mosque: An Architectural Gem
On the other side of the Sulmanahan is the marvelous blue mosque also known as the Sultan Ahmed mosque. Six minarets and blue dome have made it easily recognizable and it is regarded as one of the finest examples of the Ottoman periods. Tourists can see its huge worship area covered with more than 20000 hand painted tiles and its giant central dome with semi domes.
The Blue Mosque is still a working mosque and tourists should bear in mind the times of prayers. It is one of the most visited places in Istanbul, and one should not miss it, because of the quietness and the stunning buildings.
Why Visit Istanbul?
Historical Significance: The Topkapi Palace Museum, the Hagia Sophia Museum, which everyone knows are in Istanbul are the history of empires and civilizations.
Architectural Wonders: From the Byzantine cathedrals to the Ottoman mosques, Istanbul has a lot of architecture to watch and think about.
Cultural Diversity: Istanbul being a city located between two continents has both the eastern and western civilizations.
Scenic Beauty: The city is situated on the Bosphorus and has beautiful views and the opportunity to have great cruises.
Bosphorus Cruise: A Scenic Escape
Istanbul is a beautiful city and a Bosphorus Cruise is a must do for anyone visiting the city. Regardless of the option taken to decide whether to undertake the trip in the morning or in the evening for dinner, it is always worthwhile undertaking the trip with the intention of seeing the skyline of the city. You can distinguish well-known objects like the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Maiden’s Tower and the Bosphorus Bridge.
Istanbul is a city that has the old world and the new world and the cruises give a good view of Istanbul. It is one of the most effective methods to have fun and at the same time to appreciate the view of the city.
Galata Tower: A Panoramic View
Located in the Galata district of the city, the Galata Tower offers one of the finest views of Istanbul. The Golden Horn, Bosphorus and the vast cityscape can be seen from the 14th century medieval stone tower which was built.
The tower also contains a restaurant at the top, where tourists may go up to the top to have a meal while enjoying the view of the city. The Galata Tower is most beautiful at sunset and is a photographer's delight.
Dolmabahçe Palace: Opulence by the Bosphorus
Another iconic building of Istanbul; it also stands at the coastline of Bosphorus named Dolmabahçe Palace. This 19th century palace was the official office of the Ottoman Empire and then the home of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the father of the new Turkey.
The indoor part of the palace is also lavish with crystal chandeliers, gilded paintings and friezes that depict pomp of the Ottoman Empire. A visit to the Dolmabahçe Palace is a means of getting acquainted with the royal history of Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern: An Underground Marvel
One of the great cisterns in Istanbul which was believed to have been constructed between the year 400 and 500 AD is the Basilica Cistern. It is an atmospheric space with 336 marble columns and it is a perfect example of how ancient people could build.
The most popular part of the cistern is the Medusa Head column base which gives the place a mysterious look. The Basilica Cistern is a little eerie because of the low light and the reflection of the light in the water, which is a plus if you are in Istanbul.
Conclusion: Istanbul’s Timeless Allure
Istanbul is a unique place which is making an offer for its guests, where the history, culture and beauty of nature are blended together. Each and every nook and cranny of this great city has plenty to offer and this is true of everything from the sophisticated glories of Topkapi Palace Museum to the frenetic bustle of the Grand Bazaar. Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque represent its rich history and crowded streets as well as nice water channels represent its modern days.
The best tourist attractions in Istanbul will provide a journey through time and a plunge into the enchantment for tourists who wish to lose themselves. A city that will stick with you more than you stick with it; when you are gazing at the items of the Topkapi Palace Museum or when enjoying the views of the Bosphorus tour.
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