Istanbul, Turkey
We went from the cruise port directly to the Hagia Sophia mosque. Once there we purchased tickets to tour the mosque and a museum about the history of the mosque and related ancient artifacts.
After visiting the museum, we rested a little bit and got to know one of the feline residents. Istanbul is known for its cats. We saw cats just about everywhere we went. They’re not exactly feral because everyone feeds them and enjoys that they’re there. There’s actually a long history associated with cats and they are very culturally relevant to the city.
After our visit with the cat, we walked a little with CJ to have some Turkish coffee. It was a nice respite after the tours.
It was then time to take a stroll a little way to the Grand Bazaar. We spent a little time walking around and bought a few souvenirs. We even got some Turkish Delight to bring home.
After our shopping excursion in the Grand Bazaar, we made our way back to the car. We decided to stop for some street food, it was bread similar to a bagel. It really hit the spot as we hadn’t had anything for lunch yet.
We then headed back to the ship as we were all pooped, and as we headed back, we got to hear the afternoon call to prayer.
The Bosphorus Straight: Asia on the left, Europe on the right.
Istanbul’s abundance of cats is a result of historical, cultural, and practical factors:
1. Historical Role: Cats have been valued in Istanbul for centuries, dating back to the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. They were essential in controlling rodents, which protected food supplies and reduced the spread of diseases.
2. Geographical Location: Istanbul’s position as a major trade hub brought sailors who often carried cats on ships to control rats. Many of these cats stayed behind, contributing to the growing population.
3. Cultural Significance: In Islamic tradition, cats are seen as clean and respected animals. The Prophet Muhammad is said to have had a fondness for cats, which has influenced the cultural reverence for them in Istanbul and the broader Muslim world.
4. Community Support: The people of Istanbul have a deep affection for cats and take collective responsibility for their welfare. It’s common to see food and water bowls left out, as well as small shelters to protect the cats from harsh weather.
5. Favorable Climate: Istanbul’s temperate climate allows cats to thrive outdoors year-round, which contributes to their visibility and population growth.
6. No Strict Regulation: Unlike in some cities where stray animal populations are controlled through shelters or laws, Istanbul embraces its cats as part of the city’s identity, allowing them to roam freely and coexist with humans.
These factors together make cats an integral and beloved part of Istanbul’s culture and urban environment.
The Hagia Sophia (or Ayasofya) is one of the most significant architectural and historical landmarks in the world. Located in Istanbul, Turkey, its history spans nearly 1,500 years and reflects the cultural and religious transformations of the city.
Construction and Byzantine Period (532–1453)
• Commissioned by Emperor Justinian I in 532 CE, the Hagia Sophia was built in just five years and completed in 537 CE.
• Designed by Anthemius of Tralles and Isidore of Miletus, it was the largest church in the Christian world for nearly a thousand years. Its massive dome, 55.6 meters (182 ft) high, was considered an architectural marvel of its time.
• The Hagia Sophia served as the central church of the Eastern Orthodox Church and the seat of the Patriarch of Constantinople.
• It endured damage from earthquakes and riots, including the Nika Revolt in 532, but was continually restored and adorned with mosaics of Christ, the Virgin Mary, saints, and emperors.
Ottoman Period (1453–1935)
• In 1453, when Sultan Mehmed II conquered Constantinople, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. This marked the beginning of its Islamic phase.
• The Ottomans added minarets, a mihrab (prayer niche), and a minbar (pulpit) to adapt the space for Muslim worship.
• Christian mosaics were covered or plastered over (but not destroyed), reflecting Islamic aniconism.
• The Hagia Sophia became the inspiration for Ottoman mosque architecture, influencing designs such as the Blue Mosque.
Modern Period (1935–2020)
• In 1935, under the secular reforms of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a museum.
• During this time, restoration efforts uncovered some of the Byzantine mosaics, allowing the building’s Christian and Islamic heritages to coexist visibly.
Return to a Mosque (2020–present)
• In 2020, the Turkish government, led by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, reconverted the Hagia Sophia into a mosque.
• While it remains open to visitors, Islamic practices resumed, including covering Christian imagery during prayers.
Architectural Significance
• The Hagia Sophia’s massive dome rests on pendentives, an innovative engineering solution that distributes its weight evenly. This allowed for the creation of a vast, open interior space.
• The combination of Byzantine and Islamic features makes it a unique example of cultural synthesis in architecture.
Today, the Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated as a symbol of Istanbul’s complex and layered history, bridging the worlds of East and West, Christianity and Islam.
The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) in Istanbul is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and diverse offerings. Here’s an overview of its significance:
Historical Background
• The Grand Bazaar was established in 1461 by Sultan Mehmed II, shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. It was initially built to stimulate trade and solidify Istanbul as a commercial hub.
• Over the centuries, the market expanded, with additional structures and shops added, making it the bustling marketplace it is today.
Architecture and Layout
• The bazaar spans over 30,000 square meters with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops.
• Its labyrinthine layout is a mix of shops, cafes, mosques, fountains, and even a hammam (Turkish bath), reflecting Ottoman urban design.
• The bazaar has several gates, the most famous being the Beyazıt Gate and the Nuruosmaniye Gate, which are landmarks in themselves.
Shopping Experience
• The Grand Bazaar is a treasure trove for a wide variety of goods:
• Jewelry: Gold, silver, and precious stones.
• Textiles: Traditional carpets, kilims, scarves, and fabrics.
• Ceramics: Hand-painted tiles and pottery.
• Spices and Sweets: Turkish delight, tea, and spices.
• Antiques and Handicrafts: Items like lamps, leather goods, and intricate souvenirs.
• Haggling is a part of the experience, and skilled negotiation is encouraged.
Cultural Significance
• The bazaar has been a center of trade for centuries, connecting Europe and Asia through the Silk Road.
• It’s not just a marketplace but also a cultural experience, reflecting Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant multiculturalism.
Modern-Day Appeal
• The Grand Bazaar attracts millions of visitors annually, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Istanbul.
• While many shops cater to tourists, locals still visit for specific goods, ensuring it remains a living, functional marketplace.
Visiting the Grand Bazaar is like stepping into the heart of Ottoman-era Istanbul, where history, commerce, and culture converge in an unforgettable sensory experience.
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