Istanbul, the only city in the world built on two continents, stands on the shores of the Istanbul Bogazi (Bosphorus) where the waters of the Black Sea mingle with those of the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn. Here on this splendid site Istanbul guards the precious relics of the three empires of which she has been capital; a unique link between East and West, past and present.
However, Istanbul is not only historic, it is a magnificent city fascinating and vividly alive. Beneath the unchanging skyline of her domes and minarets there is the continual bustle and movement of the crowd, the rumbling of vehicles along the ancient cobbled streets, the incessant coming and going and the cries of street sellers mingling with the sounds of shipping in the busy port.
Istanbul has infinite variety: museums, ancient churches, palaces, great mosques, bazaars and the Istanbul Bogazi (Bosphorus). However long you stay, just a few days or longer, your time will be wonderfully filled in this unforgettable city. Istanbul, Turkey, has a unique situation with holdings in both Europe and Asia. The city is divided by the The Bosphorus with European Istanbul to the west and Asian Istanbul to the east. The majority of the attractions and neighbourhoods that make up cosmopolitan Istanbul are to be found on the European side, where Istanbul has become a popular location with both business and leisure travelers.

» Istanbul Highlights
Palaces, mosques, museums, historical sites and monuments, Bosphorus, Golden Horn (Halic), architecture, old churches, the city walls, cisterns, columns, fountains, fortresses, towers, yatching, shopping, good foods, beautiful and varied scenery are Istanbul's foremost attractions

» How To Come
There are flights from almost every capital and major city in the world to Istanbul's Ataturk Airport. From any part of Europe there are train connections to Sirkeci Station and from the Middle East and Asia to Haydarpasa Station. The E80 highway from Europe enters Turkey from the Bulgarian Kapikule frontier.

Transportation
Istanbul is accessible from both Europe and Asia by a number of methods, although passport and customs checks can be frequent. If arriving in Istanbul from an area where air travel is possible then this option should be taken.
Transportation vehicles are at work in every part of Istanbul, by bus, minibus and cabs. However the ideal transportation vehicle for the tourists is the taxi.
The cheapest but relatively slow means of transport is the bus. On the European side the main bus lines start from Taksim Square, Eminönü (near the Galata Bridge) and Beyazit (near the Covered Bazaar). On the Asian side there are departures from Uskudar and Kadikoy. Bus tickets are sold at designated kiosks and must be purchased before boarding a bus. There is also regular bus service every half hour between Ataturk Airport and the THY Airline Terminal at Sişhane.
The "dolmuş" is a practical and cheap means of transport, especially when compared with the taxi. Each passenger pays according to the distance travelled and the fares are fixed by the municipality. The main dolmus stations are Taksim, Eminonu, Sirkeci, Besiktas, Aksaray, Uskudar, and Kadikoy.
Taxi stands are everywhere in the city and taxis are easily recognized by their yellow colour and "taxi" signs on top. They are equipped with taximeters. (Note: Bridge crossing tolls'are the responsibility of the passenger) The ferryboat is a practical, enjoyable and cheap means of transport. There are several departures from Eminonu to the Istanbul Bogazi, the Golden Horn, Uskudar, Kadikoy, Haydarpas.a (railway station), the Istanbul Adalari and Yalova. Travel agents' boat tours leave from Kabatas. to Istanbul Bogazi and to the islands. There are also sea bus services between Europe and Asia. On the European side the local trains run from Sirkeci Station to the suburbs of Atakoy and Florya (camping facility). On the Asian side they run between Haydarpasa Station and the suburbs.

Taxis Taxis are yellow and have a "Taksi" sign. Taxi charges are determined officially. Taxis have a Taximetre that works when the customer gets in the car. Taxis have two charges tarrifs, daytime (gunduz) and night (gece). Night tarifs starts at 24.00 and end at 6.00 a.m. Night time is more expensive than daytime. Please check when you get in the taxii whether the taxi driver opens the taximeter night tariff or day tariff. (Also note: Bosphorus Bridges crossing tolls are the responsibility of the passenger)
Public Transportation in Istanbul public transportations is carried out by Istanbul Municipality.
IETT Buses Public transport is run by IETT, a subdivision of Istanbul Municipality. The sign of "IETT" can be seen ,in writing, on all buses,ticket offices,information offices and stations. Ticket and ticket prices are standard and same for all IETT buses.
Railvays in Istanbul The railway system in Istanbul is operated by two separate institutions, Istanbul Borough and State Railways (DDY).
The railway system called "Hizli Tramvay" has two separate lines. One of the lines starts at Eminonu and ends at two separate stations, Atakoy and Zeytinburnu. The other line starts at Aksaray and ends at Yenibosna.
Anatolia and European parts of Istanbul have their Suburban Railway System. The centre of the Anatolian Suburban Railway System is Haydarpasa Gari and trains carry passengers from Haydarpasa as far as Gebze. The centre of the European Suburban Railway System is Sirkeci Gari and trains carr passengers from Sirkeci as far as Halkali.



Ferries, Sea Buses and Boats Turkish Maritime Line operate a service from Venice to a number of ports in Turkey.Some domestic lines are as follows
Istanbul-Izmir
Istanbul-Avsa and Marmara Islands
Istanbul-Bandirma
Maritime Information Tel: (212) 244 74 54
Maritime Reservation Tel: (212) 249 92 22
The ferries are a popular public transport in Istanbul. They travel between the European and Asian sides of the city, Princess islands and the Bosphorus. Detailed information and ship operating times can be obtined at all ferry ports such as Karakoy,Kadikoy,Sirkeci,Haydarpasa etc. For Further Information (0212) 244 42 33 or 252 21 00
These are preferres for their fast transportation between the two side of Istanbul and some seaside districts of Istanbul. You will need to purchase a token to board sea buses. They are more expensive than the ferryboat of City Lines. For further information about sea buses Tel: 0216 362 04 44

» Istanbul Business Hours, Money and Banking
In Istanbul, business hours are 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday in Summer.
Some biggest banks web address and phone numbers:

Akbank
Tel: 444 25 25 (ALO BANK)
Web: http://www.akbank.com.tr
Citibank
Tel: 444 0 500 (ALO BANK)
Web: http://www.citibank.com.tr
Garanti Bankasi
Tel: 444 0 333 (ALO BANK)
Web: http://www.garanti.com.tr
HSBC Bank
Tel: 444 0 111 (ALO BANK)
Web: http://www.hsbc.com.tr
Is Bankasi
Tel: 444 02 02 (ALO BANK)
Web: http://www.isbank.com.tr
Yapi Kredi Bankasi
Tel: 444 0 444 (ALO BANK)
Web: http://www.ykb.com.tr
Ziraat Bankasi
Tel: 444 0 434 (ALO BANK)
Web: http://www.ziraat.com.tr

» Doctors and Hospitals
Your best source of information about where to find doctors, dentist or to receive medical care while in Istanbul is your consulate office. You are welcome to ask for hotel doctor from reception of your hotel. English speaking doctors can be found at the private hospitals listed below:

Acibadem Hospital
www.acibadem.com.tr/English
Halit Ziya Uşaklıgil Cad. 1 Bakırköy 34140
İstanbul Tel: (212) 414 44 44
Ahiym Jewish Hospital
Hisarönü Caddesi 46/48 Ayvansaray
Tel: ( 212) 524 11 56
American Hospital
www.amerikanhastanesi.com.tr
Güzelbahçe Sokak 22 Nişantaşı
Tel: (212) 224 40 50
Armenian Hospital
Yedikule Caddesi 6 Elmadağ
Tel: (212) 248 47 62
Balıklı Greek (Rum) Hospital
Belgrat Kapısı Durağı 2 Zeytinburnu
Tel: (212) 547 16 00
Florence Nightingale
www.florence.com.tr
Abide-ı Hürriyet Caddesi Yol Sokak
290 Şişli - Istanbul
Tel: (212) 224 49 50
Francais Lape Hospital
(Pyschologie - Nörologie)
Büyükdere Caddesi 22 - Şişli
Tel: (212) 246 10 20
German (Alman) Krankenhaus
www.almanhastanesi.com.tr
Sıraselviler Caddesi 119 Taksim
Tel: (212) 293 21 50
International Hospital
www.internationalhospital.com.tr/English
Istanbul Caddesi 87 Yeşilköy
Tel: (212) 663 30 00
Italian Hospital
Defterdar Yokuşu 37 Cihangir
Tel: (212) 249 97 51
Menorial Hospital
www.memorial.com.tr/eng
Piyale Paşa Bulvarı 80270 Okmeydanı
Istanbul Tel: (212) 210 66 66
Surp Pırgiçyan Armenian
Zekirbaşı Sokak 32 Kazlıçeşme
Tel: (212) 587 50 50


» Other Istanbul Info
Istanbul Population: 9,413,000 (Source: UN Population Division 2000 estimate)
Time Zone: GMT + 2 hours
Electricity: The voltage in turkey is 220 volts with a frequency of 50 hertz.

Turkish Foods&Drinks:

Turkish Cuisine and Dining Out:
Would someone come to Turkey just to eat out? Yes, they would. Turkish food is famous throughout the world. The painstaking preparation of simple, but fresh ingredients brings out the richness of their flavors in a way that never fails to delight. The range is enormous, from the many soups to an astonishing variety of hors d'oeuvres (meze) followed by meat and fish dishes. Then pause awhile to contemplate the famous Turkish sweets and pastries before finishing with Turkish coffee. All Turkish food is prepared from fresh ingredients. The country produces a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, and, being surrounded on three sides by sea, the range of fish to be found is considerable.
Among alcoholic drinks are the light Turkish beer, local wines, and the national drink, 'raki' (an anisette), which clouds when water is added, giving it the popular name of "lion's milk." The drinking of raki is a rite in itself, and it is traditionally accompanied by a variety of "meze" (hors d'oeuvres). Wherever you go, coffee or tea will be offered to you. Bottled drinking water and mineral water are easily found everywhere. Tap water is drinkable but the taste is not good because it is chlorinated.
Especially in large cities like Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir, you can also find restaurants which feature Chinese, Russian, Japanese, Korean, French, Swiss, German and Italian cuisine.
Wine Tasting:
Anatolia was one of the first wine drinking countries in the world. Wine was drunk as a ritual around 2,000 B.C. Hittite Emperors offered wine to their gods in order to thank them for what they had. Reliefs portraying these offerings can be seen at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara. The main wine production centers are Ankara, Goreme and Yozgat in mid-Anatolia; Tekirdag, Murefte, Sarkoy, Marmara Island and Avsa Island in the Marmara Region; and Bozcaada, Izmir, Sirince, Denizli, Guney and §al in the Aegean Region. In Anatolia, which is known as the land of wine, it is inexpensive and delicious.


Marriage Between Two Foreign Nationals In Turkey

Required Documents:
-Certificate of no impediment from the local registrar of marriages in your country
-Birth certificate and passport
-A divorce or death certificate of previous spouse if married before
Procedure:
Application to the relevant consulate in Turkey to initiate the formalities. The certificate of no impediment and certificate of identity and nationality obtained from the relevant consulate to be authenticated by the local Governor office in Turkey.
Application in person to the local marriage office to give notice of marriage, submit the certificates, complete necessary forms and fix a date for the marriage ceremony.
Solemnization of marriage (if the marrying parties do not speak Turkish, they are advised to arrange for an interpreter to be present during the ceremony)
Notice to the relevant consulate to have the marriage registered in their country.
Notes:
Foreign nationals in Turkey can also get married in their respective consulates if it is possible under their national law. However, if one of the parties is a Turkish citizen, marriage can only be solemnized by the Turkish authorities.
Please also contact with your country's consulate(s) in Turkey.


Nightlife:
There are boundless choices where nightlife in Turkey is concerned. In Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir, the State Symphony Orchestra and State Opera and Ballet offer the works of Turkish and foreign composers under the direction of world famous Turkish and foreign directors. Alongside the Turkish theatre, there are foreign theatrical groups which come to Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir from time to time. For a different view of nightlife in Turkey, there are nightclubs and colorful shows. Wherever you are, you will be able to go into a nightclub and taste some Turkish food while enjoying yourself until morning. The discos in resort areas and large cities have the latest facilities.

HISTORY OF ISTANBUL

Across the country,there are thousands of archeological sites,historical places and ancient cities,as well as magnificent scenic spots and natural wonders.Since Roman times, Asiatic Turkey has been known as both "Asia Minor" and "Anatolia".The European part of Turkey is called Thrace.

These lands have been continually inhabited since the Stone Age.Because Anatolia is located like a natural bridge between continents, no other country in the world has acquired so many historical treasures.

The Aegean Sea, the Dardanelles and the Bosphorus form the western boundaries of the Anatolian peninsula.Be side the Dardanelles are the ruins of the famous city of Troy — a memento of thousands of years of history- and on the shores of the Bosphorus rises Istanbul in all her beauty and splendor,keeping the memories of her past alive.

There are many legends related to the foundation of Istanbul.According to the best known one, around 650 BC, a sea tribe from the Aegean left their city Megara and began to look for a new homeland under the leadership of Byzas.

According to the customs of the age,before any such undertaking an oracle had to be consulted. The oracle in the Apollo temple in the famous town of Delphi advised Byzas to settle opposite the "land of the blind".The migrants searched for such a land for a long time. When they came to the headland of present-day Istanbul,they were delighted with the fertile lands and the advantages offered by the natural harbor,the Golden Horn.They also noticed the people living across the stretch of water. The migrants decided that those people must have been blind if they could not appreciate the opportunities of this ideal place and settled on the opposite shore,and they were convinced that they had found the land the oracle had described.

Excavations have revealed finds dating back to the 3rd millennium BC at the tip of the Golden Horn and on the Asian side.

The city of Byzantium existed as an independent state, but succumbed from time to time to the superior powers ruling the region.The acropolis of the city stood where Topkapi Palace stands today.It had a well-protected harbor,still used today, in the Golden Horn.A fortified city wall starting here surrounded the city and reached the Sea of Marmara.Byzantium was an important seaport and a center of trade under the Roman Empire. However,it sided with the wrong party during a struggle for the throne in 191 AD, and after a siege that lasted two years,it was conquered and razed by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus.The same emperor later reconstructed the city on a larger scale.New city walls were built and the city was adorned with new buildings.

By the 4th century AD the Roman Empire had expanded considerably,and the capital Rome lost its central position in the empire.While looking for another city as his new capital,the Emperor Constantine the Great finally chose Istanbul, realizing the strategic position of the city at the intersection of sea and land routes and the importance of its perfect climate.

New city walls were constructed,enlarging the city again,and numerous temples,governments, palaces,baths and a hippodrome were built .

Finally in 330 AD it was officially declared . the capital of the Roman Empire.Many ceremonies were organized for the occasion,which marked the beginning of a golden age.Although the city was initially called the Second Rome or New Rome,these names were soon forgotten to be replaced by "Byzantium" and in later ages by "Constantinopolis",while the people favored the name "Polis".

The successors of Constantine the Great continued to improve and beautify the city by building new avenues, aqueducts, monuments and edifices. The first churches in the city were also built after the time of Constantine.

The Roman Empire was divided into two in 395 AD. Although the Western Empire collapsed in the 5th century, the Eastern Empire, which was administered from the capital, Istanbul survived for over 1,000 years afterwards.

This empire was named as the Byzantine Empire by modern historians.Byzantium had a very interesting history,because its development was influenced both by the earlier Anatolian civilizations and, more importantly, by Christianity; its laws and rules were adopted from Rome, but its pomp and ceremonies from the East.

The city was enlarged once more with the erection of new city walls in the first half of the 5th century. The magnificent city walls on the landward side that we see today were built by Emperor Theodosrus If. They are 6,492 m long. In the 6th century, the city, that now had a population of over half a million, lived through another golden age during the reign of Emperor Justinian. The famous Hagia Sophia is the work ot this emperor.

The later history of the Byzantine Empire and its capital Istanbul is filled with palace and church intrigues and Persian and Arab attacks. The throne frequently changed hands after bloody feuds between royal families. Between 726-842, all kinds of religious images were outlawed in the city during the iconoclastic movement.This led to much destruction (and much concealment) of paintings and statues.


The Latin invasion was a dark page in the history of Istanbul. It started with the invasion of the city by the armies of the Fourth Crusade in 1204,and for many years all the churches, monasteries and monuments in the city were robbed of their treasures.Although the Byzantines regained control of the city in 1261,Istanbul never fully recovered its former wealth.

increasing threats of the expanding Ottoman Empire finally came to an climax when, following a siege of fifty-three days in 1453, the city was captured by the Turks.The large caliber cannons of Sultan Mehmet,the Conqueror, used for the first time in history, were one of the factors that enabled the Turks to penetrate the city walls of Istanbul.Another factor contributing to the conquest was that the Byzantine Empire had reached the end of its natural life span.

Mehmet,who was only 21 years old then,moved the capital of the Ottoman Empire to Istanbul, increased the population of the city by bringing in immigrants from different regions of the country, and started to reconstruct the deserted and wrecked city.He granted freedom of worship and social rights to the former inhabitants.

It was thanks to the rights granted by Mehmet that the Patriarchate of the Greek Orthodox is even today located in Istanbul.Some of the dilapidated churches in the city, including Hagia Sophia,were renovated and converted into mosques.

Istanbul was fully reconstructed within a short period after it was conquered by the Turks.A century later,Turkish art had left its mark on the city, and domes and minarets dominated the skyline.

In the 16th century,when the Ottoman Sultans assumed the office of Caliphate,(chief civil and religious authority of Islam) Istanbul became the center of the Islamic world as well. The city was totally reconstructed and acquired a magical ambiance under the sultans. Although no wars featured in Istanbul's history during this time, frequent fires repeatedly devastated large sections of the city.

The Imperial Topkapi Palace built on the site of the old acropolis commands an extraordinarily beautiful view of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. As a result of closer contacts with the West, mosques and palaces in European style were built along the shores of the Bosphorus by the 19th century.

These numerous palaces, built in a very short time, also symbolize the decline of another empire. For at the end of World War I Istanbul witnessed the collapse of the Ottoman Empire.

The Ottoman Empire was broken up and while the internal and external enemies were fighting among themselves for a larger share of the spoils, one of the valiant commanders of the Turkish army was engaged in a struggle on behalf of the Turkish Nation.

This national hero, Mustafa Kemal,founded the Republic of Turkey after a war of independence that lasted more than four years.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk assumed the Presidency of this first republic in Asia, and changed the course of his country toward the principles of western civilization. The Sultan and his family were exiled, the Caliphate was abolished, the Latin alphabet was adopted, the fez and veil were outlawed,and women were granted voting rights.

By the time Ataturk died in 1938,the Republic of Turkey was already recognized as a member of the western world. The relocation of the capital to Ankara never reduced the importance of Istanbul,and this incomparable city continued to maintain its enchanting appearance and life style.

The Republic of Turkey has now proceeded for 75 years on the path of reason,based on scientific thought and facts,that was pointed out by Ataturk.

The people of the country are determined to continue their march in the direction of contemporary civilization.The next millennium will be an even more prosperous age for the secular and democratic republic.The citizens of the country will follow in the footsteps of Ataturk as individuals who are independent, enlightened,unfettered in life and religion, at liberty in prayer and education, free in will, and loyal to the country.
TOURISTIC PLACES

Topkapi Palace-Overlooking the Istanbul Bogazi and the Marmara Sea stands the maze of buildings that was the great palace of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The first courtyard is a magnificent wooded garden. On the right of the second court, shaded by cypress and plane trees is the palace kitchen, now housing an exquisite collection of crystal, silver, and Chinese porcelain, while on the left is the Harem, the secluded quarters of the wives and concubines of the sultan. The third court contains the Audience Hall of the sultan, the Library of Sultan Ahmet III, an exhibition of robes worn by the sultans and their families, the famous jewels of the Imperial Treasury and lastly, an exhibition of miniatures. In the center of the third court is the Pavilion of the Holy Mantle enshrining relics of the Prophet Mohammed. (Open every day except Tuesday) more info
Dolmabahçe Palace-Built in the mid 19th century by Sultan Abdülmecit, it has an impressive six hundred metre frontage on the İstanbul Bogazi. The most important part is the vast reception salon, with 56 columns, and a huge, seven hundred and fifty bulbs, crystal chandelier weighing 4.5 tons. The architecture of the Harem is a stark contrast to that of the rest of the palace. The Bird Pavilion, where birds from all over the world were kept, is unique to this palace. Atatürk, founder of the Turkish Republic, died here on the 10th of November, 1938. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday) more info
Beylerbeyi Palace-On the Asian side of the Istanbul Bogazi, this palace was built of white marble by Sultan Abdülaziz in the 19th century. It possesses a beautiful garden with magnolia trees. It was used as a summer residence of the sultans and a guest house for visiting foreign dignitaries. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday) more info
Yildiz Palace-This palace includes a complex of pavilions and a mosque which were built over a long period and finally completed by Abdülhamit II at the end of the 19th century. The Şale, largest and most exquisite of the buildings, reflects the luxurious life of over a century ago. Yildiz Palace is set in a very large park of flowers with plants and trees brought from every part of the world. Situated on the top of a hill, it has one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Istanbul Bogazi. Due to restoration work only the Sale and park are open to the public. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday) more info
Goksu Pavilion (Küçük Su)-It takes its name from the famous streams nearby. Built by Abdülmecit in the middle of the 19th century, it was used as a summer residence. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday) more info
Aynali Kavak-Summer Pavillon Originally built in the 18th century and restored by various sultans. It takes its present name (Mirrored Poplar) from the time of the installation of the mirrors (1718). The mirrors were given as a gift by the Venetians. This palace on the Golden Horn one of the most beautiful examples of traditional Turkish archirecture. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday) more info
Ihlamur Pavilion Built-in the 19th century, it takes its name from the linden trees that grow in abundance in the garden. The Merasim Pavilion was the scene of official ceremonies and the Maiyet Pavilion housed the sultan's entourage and on occasions his Harem. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday) more info
Maslak Pavilions-The buildings on this shady green hill were constructed primarily by Sultan Abdülaziz as a hunting lodge. The architectural style and decoration of the Ottoman period is interesting. Limonluk Green House is a fine example of this. A cup of tea taken in the cafe opening on to the Limonluk is most relaxing. (Open every day except Monday and Thursday) more info

MOSQUES

Istanbul has hundreds of mosques, both historical and intimate. Mosques are open to visitors daily, outside of worshipping hours, which announced by the muezzins call to prayer. All visitors are asked to remove their shoes and women are expected to cover their heads before entering. A few of the most architecturally interesting mosques are:

Sultan Ahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque)-Facing St. Sophia is the supremely elegant, imperial, six minaret mosque of Sultan Ahmet I. Built between 1609 and 1616 by the architect Mehmet, it is known as the Blue Mosque, because of its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles. During the tourist season there is a light and sound show in the evening.
Suleymaniye Mosque-The mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent, where he and his wife are buried, is considered the most beautiful of all imperial mosques in Istanbul. It was built between 1550 and 1557 by the famous architect Sinan whose wish was to surpass the builders of St. Sophia-Standing on a hill, it is conspicuous by its great size, emphasised by the four minarets rising one from each corner of the courtyard. Inside, the mihrab (prayer niche ) and the mimber (pulpit) are of finely carved white marble, and there are fine stained glass windows. Adjoining the mosque were theological schools, a school of medicine, a soup kitchen and hospice for the poor, a caravanserai and a Turkish bath. more info
Rustem Pasa Mosque-Another skillful accomplishment of the architect Sinan, this mosque was built in 1561 on the orders of Rustem Paşa, Grand Vizier and son-in-law of Suleyman the Magnificient. The exquisite interior is covered with some of the finest examples of Iznik tiles.
Fatih Mosque-This imperial mosque, constructed between 1463 and 1470, bears the name of the conqueror of Istanbul, Fatih Sultan Mehmet, and is the site of his mausoleum. Standing on top of one of the hills of Istanbul, it is notable for its vast size and great complex of religious buildings surrounding it: theological schools, hospices, a hospital, baths, a caravanserai and a library. more info
Eyüp Mosque-The Great Mosque of Eyüp is situated outside the walls near the Golden Horn where Eyüp, standard-bearer of the Prophet Mohammed, died in an assault on Constantinople in 670. His tomb is greatly venerated and attracts many pilgrims. This was the first mosque built after the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul.
Yeni Mosque-Built between 1597 and 1663, this mosque, located at Eminonu, is one of the best known sights of Istanbul. An elegant fountain for ritual ablutions stands in the large courtyard and the sultan's section is decorated with marvellous Iznik tiles.
Sokullu Mehmet Pasa Mosque-This 16th century mosque, constructed on the slope of a hill below Sultan Ahmet Square, is one of the most beautiful examples of terpiece of the architect Sinan. The pulpit and prayer niches are of special interest as they are covered with beatiful Iznik tiles.
Mihrimah Sultan Mosque (Edirnekapı)-This mosque was also designed by Sinan and built in 1555 for Mihrimah Sultana, the daughter of Süleyman the Magnificent. This majestic mosque has 161 windows (some with stained glass), made in three rows on each side, which fill this mosque with an abundance of light.

MUSEUMS
Istanbul has some of the most exciting museums, ranging from the magnificent Saint Sophia to the intimate Sadberk Hanim Museum. Entrence fees, where charged, are very reasonable.

Ayasofya Museum (Saint Sophia)-This ancient basilica, built by Constantine the Great and reconstructed by Justinian in the 6th century, is one of the architectural marvels of all time. Its immense dome rises 55 metres above the ground and is 31 metres in diameter. The beautiful decorations include fine Byzantine mosaics. (Open every day except Monday) more info
Kariye Museum-The 11th century church of St. Saviour in Chora is after St. Sophia, the most important Byzantine monument in Istanbul. The walls are decorated with superb 14th century frescoes and mosaics on a gold background. These influenced the European Renaissance. The church is a remarkable museum of Byzantine art. Here you will find a quiet, carefully tended garden facing old wooden houses where you can enjoy tea or coffee. (Open every day except Tuesday) more info
Yerebatan Sarnıcı-Close to St. Sophia is the Byzantine cistern (6th century) known as the Yerebatan Sarayi. Fine brick vaulting is supported by 336 Corinthian columns. (Open every day except Tuesday.)
The Archaeological Museum-These are situated at the boundary of the first court of Topkapi Palace. The very rich collection of antiquities in the newly renovated Archaeological Museum includes the celebrated Alexander Sarcophagus. The Museum of the Ancient Orient displays antiquities from the Sumerian, Babylonian, Assyrian, Hatti and Hittite civilizations. (Open every day except Monday)
more info
Cinili Köşk-(The Museum of Turkish Ceramics) This kosk or pavilion was built by Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century. It contains beautiful Iznik tiles from the 16th century and fine examples of Seljuk and Ottoman tiles and ceramics. (Open every day except Monday)
Ibrahim Pasa Palace (The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art)-Built in 1524 by Ibrahim Paşa, Grand Vizier of Suleyman the Magnificent, it was the grandest private residence ever built in the Ottoman Empire. It is now used as a museum containing many beautiful Turkish and Persian miniatures, Seljuk tiles, Korans and antique carpets. (Open every day except Monday) more info
Aviation Museum-Located in Yesilkoy, this museum traces the development of air flight in Turkey. (Open every day except Monday) more info
Naval Museum-In the Besiktas, quarter, it contains the great imperial caiques that were used to row the sultans across the Istanbul Bogazi, and many interesting exhibits from Ottoman naval history. (Open every day except Monday and Tuesday) more info
Military Museum-The exhibits from Ottoman military history include the great field tents used on campaigns. There are performances by the Mehter Takimi (the Ottoman military bands) between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. (Open every day except Monday and Tuesday) more info
Ataturk (Inkilap) Museum-This is the house where Ataturk lived in Sisli and contains his personal effects. (Open every day except Saturday and Sunday)
Sadberk Hanim Museum-A charming museum housed in two restored wooden villas. The museum is dedicated to old Turkish arts and handicrafts, and includes an archaeological section. It is situated or the Istanbul Bogazi at Buyukdere. (Open every day except Wednesday) more info
Museum Of Fine Arts-Located in Besiktas, it is one of the best museums in Turkey for paintings and sculptures from the end of the 19th century to the present. (Open every day except Monday and Tuesday)
Calligraphy (Hat Sanatlari) Museum-Located in Beyazit Square. The Ottamans were always uneasy with human pictorial representation, and thus found fuller artistic expression in calligrapy. This is the only calligraphy museum in the world. (Open Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM)
Museum Of Turkish Carpets A museum-near the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, which contains a fine collection of Turkish carpets and kilims, including some very old examples. (Open every day except Sunday and Monday)
Mosaic Museum-This museum was built to preserve, "in situ", exceptionally fine mosaic pavements, of the 5th and 6th centuries, which remain from the Great Palace of the Byzantine Emperor. (Open every day except Monday) more info
Rahmi Koç Industry Museum-The museum is set in an Ottoman-period building, an 18th century factory which produced anchors and their chains. It was recently converted, although has retained many of its original features, and restored by Rahmi Koc, one of Turkey’s most powerful industrialists. It was essentially done so he could house his private collection of models, machines and vehicles which he had collected from all over Europe, and exhibits include original penny-farthing bicycles, a ship’s bridge, and an engine from the Kalender steam ferry. The museum is trying to raise the Australian navy’s first submarine sink of gallipoli in World War I. (Open every day except Monday) more info
Sehir (City) Museum-This museum houses a collection of objects covering the period from the Turkish conquest of Istanbul to the present day. The entrance is by the Yildiz Palace Garden. (Open every day except Thursday)
St. Irene Museum (Aya Irini)-St. Irene was the first church in Istanbul and was built by Constantine in the 4th century and rebuilt by Justinian. It is reputedly the site of a pre-Christian temple. (Open every day except Monday) more info

HISTORICAL SITES AND MONUMENTS

Kapalı Carsi (Grand Bazaar)-The oldest and biggest closed bazaar in the world, also known as the Grand Bazaar, has around 4000 shops and over 60 alleyway, covering a huge labyrinth in the city centre. The original two structures, covered with a series of domes and remains of the 15th century walls, became a shopping area by covering the surrounding streets and adding to it over the following centuries. In Ottoman times this was the centre of trading, and a vital area of town. The Sandal Bedesten was added during Suleyman’s reign, to cope with the rising trade in fabrics, during the 16th century.
Traditionally the more valuable goods were in the old central area, called Ic Bedesten, because it was more secure. As quite typical of the area, most streets are laid out and devoted to a particular trade, for example gold on Kuyumcular Caddesi, leather on Bodrum Han, and shoes on Kavaflar Sokak. But the trade has also spilled out onto the surrounding streets, and it is very common to see Russian traders buying up huge sacks of leather jackets or shoes outside the main entrance. Even the streets leading to the Golden Horn are lined with outdoor stalls, which have traditionally been controlled by strict trading laws to reduce competition between traders.
Apart from the usual shops selling clothes, textiles, jewellry and carpets, there are small workshops where craftsmen cast and beat silver or brass, in a skilled trade handed down through the generations. If all that shopping, bargaining and fending off persuasive salesmen is a little too tiring, there are also traditional cafes dotted inside the bazaar in which to relax, eat and sip tea. There are also money-changing booths inside and out. It is slightly less crowded during weekdays, as most locals shop at weekends.
Mısır Çarşısı (Egyptian Bazaar)-Also known as the Spice Market, this is Istanbul’s second bazaar, constructed in the same complex as Yeni Camii (or New Mosque). There are six gates, which make it an attractive exterior. The L-shaped market, together with the mosque, were built for the mother of Mehmet IV, a powerful woman who ruled the harem and, some would say, much of the empire.
Although no longer the prime spice trading area of the city, there is still the aroma of ginger, cardamom, pepper and saffron from the piles of spices sold from many stalls. These days it is also popular for great varieties of lokum (turkish delight), small souvenirs, flavoured teas and local delicacies – including the dubious sounding “Turkish Viagra”. Locals come here to shop for bed linen and towels, as well as for fruit and vegetables, coffee, clothes, pots and pans in the surrounding cramped backstreets. Outside the market on the Galata Bridge end, is this is the best place to choose olives from huge barrels, and many varieties of beyaz penir (white cheese).
Sultan Ahmet Square-In front of the Blue Mosque is the site of the ancient Hippodrome, the scene of chariot races and the centre of Byzantine civic life. Of the monuments which once decorated it only three remain: the Obelisk of Teodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine. Remains from the curved end section of the Hippodrome's wall can be seen to the south of the these three monuments. Today, it is the center of historical, cultural and touristic activities. The square, with its surroundings, is like an open-air museum. The 18th century houses on Sogukgesme Street, delightfully restored, are now guest houses for tourists and also contain a fascinating library of books on Istanbul.
Ahmet III Fountain-Standing at the entrance to Topkapi Palace and built in 1729 as a gift to Ahmet III, it is one of the most magnificent free-standing fountains. Highly ornamented and covered with a pointed roof with deep eaves, it is a fine example of fountain architecture.
Rumeli Hisarı-The Rumelian Fortress, built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1452 prior to the conquest of Istanbul, was completed in only four months. One of the most beautiful works of military architecture anywhere in the world, it is now used as the setting for some of the events of the Istanbul Festival. (Open every day except Mondays)
Galata Tower-This huge tower, built by the Genoese in 1348, is 62 metres high. From the top there is a wonderful view of the Golden Horn and the Istanbul Bogazi. It now houses a restaurant, night club and bar.
Beyazit Tower-Situated on the grounds of Istanbul University, it was built by Mahmut II in 1828 as a fire tower, and is 85 metres high.
The Istanbul Land Walls Built in the 5th century by the Emperor Theodosius II, the walls (with some sections completely restored) stretch 7 km from the Sea of Marmara to the Golden Horn. With many towers and bastions, they were once the mightiest fortifications in Christendom. UNESCO has declared the land walls, and the area which they enclose, one of the cultural heritages of the world.
Bozdogan-Valens Aqueduct Built by the Emperor Valens in 368 AD, this aqueduct supplied the Byzantine and later the Ottoman palaces with water. About 900 metres of the double tier arches remain.
Kiz Kulesi (The Tower Of Leander)-Known as Leander's Tower. Kiz Kulesi is one of the romantic symbols of Istanbul. First constructed in the 12th century on a tiny islet at the entrance to Istanbul Harbor the present building dates from the 18th century.