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ISTANBUL
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| Istanbul,
the only city in the world built on two continents, stands on. both shores
of the Istanbul Bogazi (Bosphorus) where the waters of the Black Sea mingle
with those of the Sea of Marmara. The Golden Horn divides European Istanbul
in two. Here on this splendid site, Istanbul guards the precious relics
of three empires, of which she has been the capital; a unique link between
East and West, past and present. However, Istanbul is not only historic, it is also a magnificent city that is fascinating and vividly alive. Beneath the unchanging skyline of her domes and minarets there is the continual bustle and movement of crowds, the rumbling of vehicles along andent cobblestone streets, the incessant coming and going and the cries of street sellers mingling with shipping sounds from the busy port. Istanbul has endless variety: museums, andent churches, palaces, great mosques, bazaars and the Istanbul Bogazi (Bosphorus). However long you stay, whether for just a few days or longer, your visit to this eclectic city will be unforgettable. |
| PALACES |
| Topkapi
Palace: Overlooking the Istanbul Bogazi and the Marmara Sea stands amaze
of buildings that was once the great palace of the Ottoman sultans from
the 15th to the I9th centuries. The first courtyard is a magnificent wooded
garden. To the right of the second court, shaded by cypress and plane trees
is the palace kitchen, now housing an exquisite collection of crystal, silver,
and Chinese porcelain, while on the left is the Harem, the secluded quarters
of the wives and concubines of the sultan. The third court contains the
Audience Hall of the sultan, the Library of Sultan Ahmet III, an exhibition
of robes worn by the sultans and their families, the famous jewels of the
Imperial Treasury' and finally, an exhibition of miniatures. In the center
of the third court is the Pavilion of the Holy Mantle, enshrining relics
of the Prophet Mohammed. (Open every day except Tuesday.) Dolmabahce Palace: Built in the mid-19th century by Sultan Abdulmecit, it has an impres- sive 600-meter frontage on the Istanbul Bogazi. The most important part is the vast reception salon, with 56 columns and a huge 750-bulb crystal chandelier weighing 4,5 ions. The architecture of the Harem is in stark contrast to that of the rest of the palace. The Bird Pavilion, where birds from all over the world were once kept is unique to this palace. Ataturk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, died here on November 10. 1938. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday.) Beylerbeyi Palace: On the Asian side of the Istanbul Bogazi, this palace was built of white marble by Sultan Abdulaziz in the 19th century. It possesses a beautiful garden with mag- nolia trees and was used as a summer residence of the sultans and as a guest house for visiting foreign dignitaries. (Open every' day except Monday and Thursday.) Yildiz Palace: This palace includes a complex of pavilions and a mosque which were built over a long period and finally completed by Abdulhamit II at the end of the 19th century, The Sale, the largest and most exquisite of the buildings, reflects the life of luxury of over a century ago. Yildiz Palace is set in a huge park with plants and trees brought from ever}' part of the world. Situated on the top of a hill. it has one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Istanbul Bogazi. At present only the Sale and park are open to the public. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday.) Goksu Pavilion: (Kucuksu) It takes its name from the streams nearby that empty into the Bosphorus- Built by Abdulmecit in the middle of the 19th century, it was used as a summer residence. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday.) Aynali Kavak Summer Pavilion: Originally built in the 18th century and later restored by various sultans, it takes its present name (Mirrored Poplar) from the mirrors that were given by the Venatrans in 1718. This palace on the Golden horn is one of the most beautiful examples of traditional Turkish architecture. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday.) Ihlamur Pavilion: Built in the 19th century, it is named for the linden trees that grow in abundance in the garden. The Merasim Pavilion was the scene of official ceremonies and the Maiyel Pavilion housed the sultan's entourage and on occasion, his harem. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday.) Maslak Pavilions: The buildings on this shady green hill were constucted by Sultan Abdulaziz primarily as hunting lodges. They reflect the architectural style and decoration of the Ottoman period. The Limonluk Green House is a fine example of this. For a bit of relaxation, try a cup of tea in the cafe that opens onto the Limonluk. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday.) The Florya Ataturk Sea Pavilion served as a summer residence for Turkish presidents beginning with Ataturk. Built in a T-shaped design on land jutting out into the Sea of Marmara, this building, constructed in 1935, serves as a showcase for some of the loveliest examples of early 20th century furnishings. (Open weekdays except Monday and Thursday.) |
| MOSQUES |
| Sultanahmet
Imperial Mosque (Blue Mosque): Across from St. Sophia is the supremely
elegant, imperial, six-minaret mosque of Sultanahmet I. Built between 1609
and 1616 by the architect Mehmet, it is known as the Blue Mosque because
of its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles. During the summer
months, there is a light and sound show in the evening. Suleymaniye Imperial Mosque: The mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, where he and his wife, Hurrem Sultan (Roxelane), are buried, is considered the most beautiful of all imperial mosques in Istanbul. It was built between 1550 and 1557 by the famous architect Sinan whose wish was to surpass the builders of St. Sophia. Erected on the crest of a hill, it is con- spicuous from its great size, emphasized by the four minarets rising one from each comer of the courtyard. Inside, the mihrab (prayer niche showing the direction to Mecca) and the mimber (pulpit) are of finely carved white marble, and there are fine stained glass windows, Adjoining the mosque were theological schools, a school of medicine, a soup kitchen and hospice for the poor, a caravanserai and a Turkish bath. Rustem Pasa Mosque: Another skillful accomplishment of the architect Sinan, this mosque was built in 1561 on the orders of Rustem Pasa, Grand Vizier and son-in-law of Suleyman the Magnificient. The exquisite interior is covered with some of the finest examples of Iznik tiles. Imperial Fatih Mosque: This imperial mosque, constructed between 1463 and 1470, hears the name of the conqueror of Istanbul, Fatih Sultan Mehmet, and Is the site of his mausoleum. Standing on top ol one of the hills of Istanbul, it is notable for its vast size and the great complex of religious buildings surrounding it: theological schools, hospices, a hospital, baths, a caravanserai and a library. Eyup Mosque: The Great Mosque of Eyup is situated outside the city walls near the Golden Horn where Eyup, standard-bearer of the Prophet Mohammed, died in an assault on Constantinople in 670 A,D. His tomb is greatly venerated and attracts many pilgrims. This was the first mosque built after the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul, Yeni Mosque: Built between 1597 and 1663, this mosque, located at Eminonu, is one of the best known sights of Istanbul. An elegant fountain for ritual ablutions stands in the large courtyard and the sultan's section is decorated with marvelous Iznik tiles. Sokollu Mehmet Pasa Mosque: This 16th-century mosque, contructed on the slope of a hill below Sultanahmet Square, is one of the most beautiful examples of classical Turkish architecture and is a masterpiece of the architect Sinan. The pulpit and prayer niches are of special interest being covered with beautiful Iznik tiles. Mihrimah Sultan Mosque (Edirnekapi): This mosque was also designed by Sinan and built in 1555 by Mihrimah Sultana, the daughter of Suleyman the Magnificent, This majestic mosque has 161 windows (some with stained glass) in three rows on each side, filling this mosque with an abundance of light. |
|
MUSEUMS |
| Ayasofya
Museum (Saint Sophia): This ancient basilica,
built by Constantine the Great in the 4th century and reconstructed by Justinian
in the 6th century, is one of the architectural marvels of all time- Its
immense dome rises 55 meters above the ground and is 31 meters in diameter.
The beautiful decorations include stunning Byzantine mosaics. (Open everyday
except Friday.) Kariye Museum: The 1th-century church of "St. Saviour" in Chora is, after St. Sophia, the most important Byzantine monument in Istanbul. The walls are decorated with superb 14th century frescoes and mosaics on a gold background. The church is a remarkable museum of Byzantine an that influenced the European Renaissance, Here you will find a quiet, carefully tended garden facing old wooden houses where you can enjoy tea or coffee. (Open ever day except Tuesday.) Yerebatan Sarnici: Close to St. Sophia 1s the 6th-century Byzantine cistern known as the Yerebatan Sarnici, Fine brick vaulting is supported by 336 Corinthian columns. (Open everyday except Tuesday.) Archeological Museums: These are situated on the perimeter of the first court of Topkapi Palace. The very rich collection of classical antiquities in the Archeological Museum includes the celebrated Alexander Sarcophagus, and the Athena Temple from Assos. The Museum of the Ancient Orient displays antiquities from the Sumerian, Babylonian. Assyrian, Haiti and Hittite civilizations, (Open everyday except Monday.) Cinili Kosk (The Museum of Turkish Ceramics): This kosk, or pavilion, was built by Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century. It contains beautiful Iznik tiles from the 16th century and fine examples of Seljuk and Ottoman tiles and ceramics. (Open everyday except Monday). St. Irene Museum: St. Irene was the first church in Istanbul built by Constantine in the 4th century and rebuilt by Justinian. It is reputedly the site of a pre-Christian temple (Open everyday except Monday but by appointment only.) Ibrahim Pasa Palace: (The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art) Built in 1524 by Ibrahim Pasa, Grand Vizier of Suleyman the Magnificent, it was the grandest private residence ever built in the Ottoman Empire. It is now used as a museum for many beautiful Turkish and Persian miniatures, Seljuk tiles. Korans and antique carpets. (Open everyday except Thursday.) Avaiation. Museum: Located in Yesilkoy, this museum traces the development of flight in Turkey. (Open everyday except Monday.) Naval Museum: In the Besiktas quarter, it contains the great imperial caiques (kayaks) that were used to row the sultans across the Istanbul Bogazi, as well as many interesting exhibits from Ottoman naval history. (Open everyday except Monday and Thursday.) Military Museum: The exhibits from Ottoman military history include the great field tents used on campaigns. There are performances by the Mehter Takimi (the Ottoman military band) between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. (Open everyday except Monday and Tuesday.) Ataturk Museum: This is the house where Ataturk lived in Sisli and contains some of his personal effects. (Open weekdays.) Sadberk Hanim Museum: A charming museum housed in two restored wooden villas.The museum is dedicated to old Turkish arts and handicrafts and includes an archeological section, It is situated on the Istanbul Bogazi at Buyukdere. (Open everyday except Wednesday.) Museum of Fine Arts: Located in Besiktas, it is one of the best museums in Turkey for paintings and sculptures from the end of the 19th century to the present. (Open everyday except Monday and Tuesday.) Museum of Turkish Carpets: A museum near the Sultanahmet Mosque which contains a fine collection of Turkish carpets and kilims, including some very old ones. (Open everyday except Sunday and Monday.) Mosaic Museum: This museum was built to preserve "insitu" the exceptionaly fine mosaic pavements from the 5th and 6th centuries which " were in the Great Palace of The Byzantine" Emperor. (Open everyday except Monday.) Sehir (City) Museum: This museum houses a collection of objects dating from the Turkish conquest of Istanbul to the present day. The entrance is by the Yildiz Palace Garden. (Open everyday except Thursday.) Yildiz Palace Theatre and the Historic Stage Costumes Museum with their rich scenery, full- size stage and exquisite costumes, are located within the garden of the palace. (Open everyday except Monday.) Museum of Industry (Rahmi Koc Industry Museum): Located in the suburb ol Haskoy on the coast of the Golden Horn, this 18th-century Ottoman iron and steelworks building (formerly known as Lengerhane, "iron works"), has exhibits tracing industrial development. (Open every day except Monday). Caricature Museum: This museum in the Fatih quarter is in the 16th-century Gazanler Aga Medrese. (Open weekdays 09:00-18:00). |
| HISTORICAL SITES AND MONUMENTS |
| Sultanahmet
Square: In front of the Blue Mosque is the site of the ancient Hippodrome,
the scene of chariot races and the center of Byzantine civic life. Of the
monuments which once adorned it, only three remain: the Obelisk of Theodosius,
the bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constanline. Remains from
the curved end of the Hippodrome wall can be seen to the south of the these
three monuments. Today, it is the center of historical, cultural and touristic
activities. The square, with its surrounding area. resembles an open-air
museum. The 18th-century houses on Sogukcesme Street, delightfully restored,
are now guest houses for tourists and also contain a fascinating library
of books on Istanbul. Ahmet III Fountain: Situated at the entrance to Topkapi Palace and built in 1729 as a gift to Ahmet III. it is one of the most magnificent free standing fountains. Highly ornamented and covered with a generous pointed roof, it is a fine example of fountain architecture. Rumeli Hisari: The Rumelian Fortress, built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1452 prior to the conquest of Istanbul, was completed in only four months, and is one of the most beautiful works of military architecture anywhere in the world. Its amphitheater is now used as the setting for some ol the events in the Istanbul Music Festival, (Open every day except Mondays.) Galata Tower: This huge tower, built by the Genoese in 1348 is 62 meters high. From the lop, there is a wonderful view of the Golden Horn and the Istanbul Bogazi. It has houses, a restaurant, nightclub and bar now. Beyazit Tower: Located on the grounds of Istanbul University, it was built by Mahmut 11 in 1828 as a fire lower, and is 85 meters high. The Istanbul Walls: Built in the 5th century by the Emperor Theodosius II, the walls (with some sections completely restored) stretch 7 km from the Sea of Marmara to the Golden Horn. With many towers and bastions, they were once the mightiest fortifications in Europe. UNESCO has declared die walls and the area which they enclose cultural heritages of the world. Bozdogan-Valens Aqueduct: Built by the Emperor Valens in 368 A,D., this aqueduct supplied first the Byzantine and later the Ottoman palaces with water. About 900 meters of the doubletier arches remain. Kiz Kulesi (The Tower of Leander): Kiz Kulesi is one of the romantic symbols of Istanbul. First constructed in the 12th century on a tiny islet at the entrance to Istanbul Harbor, the present building dates from the 18th century. Istanbul Bogazi (The Bosphorus): A stay in Istanbul is not complete without a traditional and unforgettable excursion by boat along the Istanbul Bogazi, that winding strait separating Europe and Asia. Along its shores is a delightfully surprising mixture of past and present, grand splendor and simple beauty. The shore is lined with modem hotels, as well as "yah" (old wooden villas), palaces of marble, fortresses, and small fishing villages- The best way to see the Istanbul Bogazi is to board one of the passenger boats that regularly zigzag the shores starting at Eminonu and slopping alternately on the Asian and European sides. The round trip excursion takes about six hours and the fare is reasonable. During the excursion you will pass the magnificent Dolmabahce Palace, and farther along, the parks and imperial pavilions of Yildiz Palace. On the coastal edge of this park, is Ciragan Palace, now restored as a grand hotel. This palace was refurbished in 1874 by Sultan Abdulaziz and is one of the most beautiful palaces on the Bosphorus with 300 metres of its marble facade facing the shore. At Ortakoy a great variety of artists gather every Sunday to display their work along the street. This is a favorite place for meeting and for eating something delicious from one of the many street vendors while strolling among the artists. Ortakoy is a symbol of tolerance with a church, a mosque and a synagogue existing side by side for centuries. Elegantly spanning the water and linking Europe and Asia for the first time is one of the longest bridges in the world. Immediately after this bridge, on the Asian side. is the beautiful Beylerbeyi Palace. Behind the palace rises Camlica Hill, the highest point in Istanbul. At the top of Camlica Hill you can rest and admire the magnificent panorama of Istanbul from the beautiful gardens, landscaped in traditional style. Across the Bosphorus on the European side, the contrasting elements of old and new can be seen in the wooden Ottoman villas of Arnavutkoy and the luxurious apartments of Bebek. Then, facing each other across the straits are the fortresses of Rumeli Hisari and Anadolu Hisari. Just before Anadolu Hisan is Goksu Palace, sometimes known as the Kucuksu Palace. Immediately after the twin fortresses is the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, the second link between the two continents. From Duatepe Hill, on the European side, are magnificent panoramic views of the bridge and the Istanbul Bogazi. Below Duatepe is the beautiful Emirgan Park, In this park, famous for its tulips, an annual tulip festival is held in April. On the Asian shore is Kanlica with its elegant villas, and also famous for its delicious yogurt. Shortly after Kanlica and Cubuklu is the Beykoz Korusu (Ibrahim Pasa Woods), a popular resting place with cafes and restaurants, where delightful views and clear fresh air can be enjoyed. Farther along on the European side is the beautiful Bay of Tarabya with yachts at anchor and many sea-front taverns which stretch on to the charming suburbs of Buyukdere and Sariyer. Sariyer has one of the largest fish markets in Istanbul and is famous for its delicious milk-puddings and boreks (pastries). It is possible to contact agencies which specialize in organizing "mini-cruises" by day or night (or trips by car along the shore) with some of these cruises serving delicious meals so the visitor can sample exceptional cuisine accompanied by fine drinks. These cruises have become very popular and are a must for people touring the Bosphorus. In the many fine restaurants and nightclubs on the Bosphorus coast, the delights of good food and entertainment can be enjoyed in a unique and beautiful setting. Halic (The Golden Horn): This horn shaped bay lies on the European side of Istanbul and is one of the best natural harbors in the world. As such, it was very important during Byzantine and Ottoman times. Today, the bay is surrounded by lovely parks and promenades. The city streets along the banks at the Golden Horn are a glance into the past. In Fener and Balat, you can see entire streets with houses, churches, and synagogues from Ottoman and Byzantine times. Eyup is another important district which looks more Ottoman with its old cemeteries and tombs of saints where people bring their prayers. You have a wonderful view of the Golden Horn from the hills of Eyup which you can enjoy with a cup of coffee in the traditional Pierre Loti Cafe. |
| EXCURSIONS |
| Istanbul
Adalari (The Princes Islands): These nine island retreats for the Byzantine
princes are famous for their beautiful pine woods and beaches. The largest
and most enjoyable of the islands is Buyukada. There you can enjoy a ride
in a horse drawn phaeton (carriage) among the pine trees after relaxing
on the beaches in the numerous coves of its coast. The other popular islands
are Kinali, Sedef, Burgaz, and Heybeliada. There are regular ferry services
to the islands in the summer a faster sea bus service operates from Kabatas.
Kilyos: On the European side of the Black Sea coast, 25 km north of Gayrettepe is Kilyos, and its long, broad sandy beaches. Belgrad Ormanlari (Belgrade Forest): The largest forest in and around Istanbul, it is set among the Istranca Mountains inland from the Black Sea on the European side. Istanbul ites drive here for rest and picnics. There are seven ancient reservoirs and a number of aqueducts from Ottoman times of which the Moglova Aqueduct, built by Sinan, is the most splendid. Overshadowing the entrance to the Kemer Golf and Country Club is the 16th-century Sultan Suleyman Aqueduct, also built by Sinan, and at 800 meters, one of the longest aqueducts. Also, a number of natural springs are nearby and the 500-stable Equestrian Center offers trailriding. Polonezkoy: This town is on the Asian side, 25 km from Beykoz, Founded in the 19th century by Polish immigrants, it is still famous for its Polish food and is another favorite weekend picnic place for the denizens of Istanbul, Sile: Located on the Black Sea, 70 km from Uskudar, Sile is visited for its sandy beaches, fish restaurants, and comfortable hotels. It is one of the most delightful holiday places near Istanbul. Sile Bezi cottonwear is also very popular with visitors. Bayramoglu - Danca Bird Paradise and Botanical Park: A unique resting-palace 38 km from Istanbul, this huge park shelters many species of birds and plants Irom all over the world and there is a promenade for pedestrians. Eskihisar: This is a charming fishing town southeast of Istanbul. In the town is the house, now a museum, of Osman Hadi Bey, with paintings by this famous Turkish artist who was active at the turn of the century. Between Eskihisar and Gebze is the tomb of Hannibal, and a little farther off is a Byzantine castle. The Eskihisar area is good for sailing and yachting. There is also an area for yachtsmen 10 moor and if necessary to winter their boats at the Atabay Marina. Silivri: About 65 km from Istanbul is the popular vacation area of Silivri, There is a large holiday complex here which offers wonderful health and fitness centers plus the Klassis Country and Golf Club, There are also services catering to "working holidays" with convention halls that have all the amenities. There is also a regular sea bus service from Istanbul to Silivri. |
| YACHTING |
| Yachting is popular in Istanbul. This is the only place in the world where you can enjoy the beauty of a mystical landscape while sailing back through time to Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman times with their magnificent castles, palaces and mosques. From the North Sea through the European interior, yachters can sail clown the European canal system and the Rhine and Danube Rivers into the Black Sea harbors and to the Istanbul-Bogazi and Istanbul marinas a safe and short way to get there. Sail on the Istanbul Bogazi under the enormous bridges spanning two continents and around the Princes' Islands to their beautiful bays. You may anchor and enjoy the serenity of this area. After enjoying all of the sights relum to one of the two large marinas in the area. Atakoy Marina is on the European side and Kalamis Marina is on the Asian side. Both offer 24-hour service, International Offshore Yacht races are held in Istanbul every summer. |
| ART, CULTURE AND AMUSEMENTS |
| Istanbul
is an international art and cultural center. The International Arts and
Cultural Festival is held each year in June and July with famous artists
coining from all over the world. These performances are held mostly in the
Ataturk Cultural Center. In March and April you can take in the International
Film Festival. Those who enjoy classical music can hear it at Cemal Resit
Rey Hall. Operas, operettas, ballets, films, concerts, exhibitions and conferences
all contribute to the cultural palette of the city, Istanbul also has a
rich program of light entertainment. Nightclubs provide splendid entertainment
thoughout dinner, ranging from a selection of Turkish songs to belly dancing.
Alongside are modem discos, cabarets and jazz clubs in the Taksim-Harbiye
district. In Sultanahmet, there are now a number of restaurants in restored
Byzantine and Ottoman buildings, which offer a unique setting for an evening
out. Kumkapi, with its many taverns, bars, and fish-restaurants, is another
attractive district. For many years people have been meeting in Cicek Pasaji
in the Beyoglu district for snacks and seafood specialties. Also in the
Beyoglu district, the narrow Nevizade Street, near Cicek Pasaj, is the best
place in Istanbul for eating Turkish specialties and drinking raki. On the
Bosphorus, Ortakoy is the best place tor nightlife in Istanbul, with its
nightclubs, jazz clubs, fine seafood restaurants and bars. Tatilya Cumhuriyeti
is a large amusement park in Beylikduzu past Haramidere on the road to the
Ataturk International Airport. In Eminonu be sure not to miss the delightful
scene of fishermen dressed in Ottoman costumes on their Ottoman-style boais
selling their famous delicious fried fish which you may sample on board
the boats. The Istanbul Experimental Science Center (Deneme Bilim Merkezi) founded by the Science Center Foundation and located on the campus of Istanbul Technical University, has handson experimental and theoretical opportunities for adults and children of various educational levels. |
| SHOPPING |
| Shopping
in Istanbul is one of the delights of a visit 10 this city where wandering
through the colorful bazaars is as enjoyable as browsing in the modern shops.
For all tourists the "Kapali Carsi" (Covered Bazaar) in the old city is,
of course, the favorite place. In this labyrinth of streets and passages
are more than 4,000 shops with each trade having its own area: the goldsmiths'
street, the carpet sellers' street, and so on. From the great variety of
goods offered, there is something to suit every taste and pocket. There
is a wide selection of jewellery, from traditional to modem settings, while
the carpet shops display eye-catching wares of vivid colors and intricate
designs. Turkish arts and crafts, include handpainted ceramic plates, hand-honed copperware, brassware and trays, water ewers, onyx-ware and meerschaum pipes, all of which make charming souvenirs and gifts. Leather and suede goods are excellent and relatively inexpensive. In the Old Bedesten. in the heart of the bazaar, the pattern old shopping seems to have remained unchanged for centuries. |
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