Dubbed the "Blue Mosque" by Europeans because of its beautiful interior tiles with flower and tree motifs manufactured at the end of the high period of the great Iznik workshops, this is the only mosque in the world with six minarets. Built by Ahmet I between 1609 and 1616, the architect was Sedefkar Mehmet Aga, one of Mimar Sinan's most prominent students. more...

Towards the end of the Ottoman Empire , in the 19C, the Westernization movement was dominant. For the Ottomans who lived in Istanbul , "West" was in the "north" beyond the Golden Horn . In mid-nineteenth century they moved a few kilometers to the north for ( Dolmabahce Palace ) and this change took the Empire to an entirely different dimension. more...

Tales of the Arabian nights come to mind in this colossal bazaar under one roof, where anything and everything under the sun is on sale. The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world with more than 60 streets and 3000 shops. more...

The Topkapi Palace served as a residence for sultans for nearly 300 years. The Palace is actually a huge complex of several courts and living quarters within each one. Gülhane Park is located on the slopes below Topkapi Palace extending to the seashore, and is popular among Istanbul residents for picnicking and open-air concerts. more...

A thoroughly respectable bath house in the city's oldest hamams. There are separate sections for men and women for the enjoyment of the famed Turkish bath. The tradition of the Turkish bath extends far back, to a time before Turks had reached Anatolia. more...