Istanbul

Topkapı Palace is the palace in Istanbul that was the primary and official residence of the Ottoman Sultan from 1465 to 1586. It is great: an incredible flash back in the splendour of the old Turkey.

Opened in 1461, the Grand Bazar is the historical market place in Istanbul. It is organized in "thematic" districts, among the others, jewelry, pottery, spice, carpet and leather spread in 58 covered streets and over 4000 shops.

The real name of the Blue Mosque is Sultan Ahmet camii and was built between 1609 and 1616.

Despite its fame, history and the huge amount of tourists visiting it is still an active place of worship. Because of this it has some not walkable areas dedicated for praying.

One of the most important attraction in Istanbul is Hagia Sophia. Its name comes from the Greek "Saint Wisdom". Finished in 537 a.C. on the ruins of the building made by Constantine in 337 a.C.. Formerly seat of the Patriarchy, then a mosque.

Everything in Istanbul is suggestive but the Basilica Cistern is something more.

It was built by Emperor Constantine as cistern for Constantinople Grand Palace under the main square of the city. It continued to be used for Topkapi Palace till the last years of its use.