Opening image: the Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel. / It was originally a basilica, then a mosque, then a museum and then recently a mosque again. / My favourite time to visit is early evening. The light pink exterior looks magical as the sun begins to set, causing it to glow brightly in Sultanahmet Square. / The building is one of the most significant surviving examples of Byzantine architecture. / A visit to The Grand Bazaar is a must. With 4,000 shops and more than 60 streets and alleys, there’s a lot to choose from, including Turkish tea sets.
Top image: The Blue Mosque. All grand in size or detail, the many mosques of Istanbul were the main reason for my visit. / I particularly love the kilims at the Grand Bazaar. The patterns are layered with history. / The modern Mimar Sinan Mosque in the Ataşehir. / The Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque) was built in the early 17th century to rival the Hagia Sophia. / Galata Bridge, aka The Fishermen’s Bridge, is in the Golden Horn. Below it are decorative floating restaurants serving delicious balık ekmek (fish sandwiches).
