Istanbul

Türkiye

The Sultanahmet Mosque (also known as the Blue Mosque because of the blue tiles that are used to decorate the interior) is one of the grandest and most famous mosques in Istanbul.

The mosque was criticized early on for having 6 minarets – the same number of the Great Mosque in Mecca. Sultan Ahmet overcame this problem by ordering a 7th minaret to be built at the Great Mosque.

One local anecdote claims that the original design called for several gold minarets. The architect realized that there wasn't enough gold in the empire to construct gold minarets, so he built six minarets instead. When questioned about his decision, the architect claimed that he mistakenly heard the instruction to be six ("altı" in Turkish) minarets rather than gold ("altın" in Turkish) minarets.

#StunningStructures #Trovember

These fabulous gates are in the grounds of the palace and that's the Bosporus you see beyond! #river #palaces

Popular cities in Istanbul

Istanbul, with its unique blend of Western and Eastern history and culture, attracts tourists from all over the world. Enjoy modern Turkey in the malls, galleries and clubs while also indulging in the exotic appeal of the traditional Turkish bazaars, palaces, coffee houses and mosques. The natural beauty of the city plus the pleasant Mediterranean climate completes the picture. The largest city in Turkey, it was for centuries the capital of a mighty empire. Istanbul is now all things - modern and traditional, familiar and exotic.

Reasons to visit

Hagia Sophia
Blue Mosque
Galata Tower

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Cities in Istanbul

Istanbul (and vicinity)

Istanbul, with its unique blend of Western and Eastern history and culture, attracts tourists from all over the world. Enjoy modern Turkey in the malls, galleries and clubs while also indulging in the exotic appeal of the traditional Turkish bazaars, palaces, coffee houses and mosques. The natural beauty of the city plus the pleasant Mediterranean climate completes the picture. The largest city in Turkey, it was for centuries the capital of a mighty empire. Istanbul is now all things - modern and traditional, familiar and exotic.