Byzantine Vision

Byzantine Vision

MT-01 - Byzantine Vision

Half day - Possible on regular and private basis

We begin our tour in Hagia Sophia, in the Sultanahmet district, the heart of ancient Istanbul. Built by Emperor Justinian in the early 6th century AD and designed by Antemius of Tralles and Isodorus of Miletus, the church is one of the wonders of world architecture. Converted into a mosque in 1453. Its huge dome still dominates the skyline of ancient Istanbul. It is also famous for its mosaics, including brilliant portraits of emperors and empresses and a moving Madonna and Child. Next we will visit the Blue Mosque*, which takes its name from the exquisite tiles that adorn its interior. Built by Sultan Ahmet I in the early 17th century and designed by a pupil of Sinan, the greatest of Ottoman architects, it is the only imperial mosque with six minarets. Its courtyard is especially grandiose. The Hippodrome, the stadium of ancient Byzantium, seated 100,000 spectators and featured artifacts from all corners of the empire. Among them are an Egyptian obelisk and a bronze sculpture of three intertwined snakes from Delphi. The Grand Bazaar was the commercial heart of the ancient city and its 4,000 stores are filled with treasures such as carpets and kilims, silks, jewelry, ceramics, icons and leather goods. Strolling through the Grand Bazaar, indulge in some Ottoman-style shopping.

Special Terms for This Tour:

  • Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays

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