Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)-Built between 1609 and 1619. Exterior is notable for its 6 slender minarets and cascade of domes and half-domes. |
Blue Mosque Interior - Tiled walls and painted dome create overall impression of blue, hence the name. |
Blue Mosque - Courtyard. |
Topkapi Palace - This is the Imperial Council Chamber, part of a large complex that was the palace of Sultans from 1492 until 19th century. |
Topkapi Palace - Ceiling of room which serves as Shrine of Holy Relics. It houses Prophet Mohammed's cloak and other relics. |
Topkapi Palace - Ottoman Throne |
Aya Sofia - The Church of the Holy Wisdom was begun under Emperor Justinian in 532 and was intended to be the grandest church in the world. |
Grand Bazaar (Kapali Carsi) - Entrance to this labyrinth of 4400 shops within 65 streets. Ultimate in retail therapy! |
Grand Bazaar - Inside the covered market. |
Grand Bazaar - Inside the covered market. Did someone say souvenirs! |
Grand Bazaar - Book and print market. Cats are everywhere! In Grand Bazaar, the various goods are sold in clusters of shops. Thus, you must find the right area for what you want to buy. The selection is amazing! |
Grand Bazaar - Book and print market. Another cat! Note Whirling Dervish prints. |
Egyptian Bazaar - This separate market is full of spice and food vendors. We bought some dried figs and apricots here! |
New Mosque (Yeni Cami) - A few pigeons were around that day! |