Hagia Sophia Temple, "Blue Mosque" and Hippodrome -- Istanbul

We viisted these 3 Iconic Landmarks of Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, which are three of Istanbul’s most impressive and legendary landmarks during a walk through the historic Old City. 

First was the famous 6th-century Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral and mosque renowned as the embodiment of Byzantine architecture with its central dome; at the time of its construction, it was the world’s largest building. We observed the golden tiles and masterful frescoes within, as well as the dome which seems to hover weightlessly overhead.








The Inside of the Dome

Hagia Sophia Temple

Next was the iconic “Blue Mosque,” or Sultan Ahmed Mosque. The photos show its slender minarets and cascade of domes, one of Istanbul’s most recognizable sights. During the guided tour of its lavish interior, we noted the walls, decorated with blue Iznik tiles that give the building its nickname.

Entrance

Main Dome -- Inside

Izink Wall Tiles

Courtyard View

Backside View

Main Archway


 
Lastly, adjacent to the first two sites is the former site of the legendary Hippodrome, once the largest chariot racetrack in the Byzantine Empire. The Egyptian obelisk was imported by Emperor Theodosius, and the Serpentine Column came from the Temple of Apollo at Delphi.







Comments

  1. ReneeApril 14, 2025 at 12:44 PM

    So cool. Robbi looks good! How are her knees doing so far?

    ReplyDelete

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