Prince’s Islands Istanbul

Princes Island Istanbul

Just off the coast of Istanbul, in the Sea of Marmara, sits an archipelago known as the Prince’s Islands. Called Adalar in Turkish, they provide a stunning haven away from the general hubbub of the city centre. During the weekends, many of the locals will join the tourists on the islands and attempt to escape from the pressures of life. 

As we always do when discussing the brilliant sites Istanbul has to offer, we’ll first dip into the history of the archipelago before then offering some advice on visiting today! 

History of Prince’s Islands Istanbul 

How did this set of islands get their name? Like most locations in Istanbul, they have historical significance and many important figures through the years have been exiled on the islands. For example, many members of royalty (including princes) were exiled during the Byzantine period and this occurred again when Ottoman sultans (and the family of the sultans) were also sent to the islands. 

Aside from these links, the islands have also housed not only Turks but Greeks too. In fact, in a 1912 survey, the Turks were outnumbered around one to 15 on the islands. Over time, however, the ratio has changed slightly and more wealthy jet-setters from Turkey have settled on the islands. 

When historians talk about Constantinople, one of the key themes that arise is the multicultural society. While this is less prominent in modern-day Istanbul, these islands still retain a rare insight into this type of society. 

Tourism on Prince’s Islands Istanbul 

In the archipelago, there are four main islands; Burgazada, Kinaliada, Buyukada, and Heybeliada. If you’re in Istanbul, they are all accessible from Kabatas (they can also be reached from Asia). Continuing from the previous section, each island offers a different cultural insight.

For example, Buyukada is the largest island of them all and has always been popular for Europeans and the Jewish community. Elsewhere, Greek fishermen used to gather on Burgazada while Kinaliada was a holiday destination for many Armenians.

If you manage to visit one or more of the islands, you’ll see the active mosques, synagogues, and churches. 

Transport – For those who want a break from the modern world, Prince’s Islands Istanbul provide a brilliant option here and we don’t mean that disrespectfully; we say it because they don’t allow motorised vehicles on the islands. Once the ferry has taken you across, you’ll travel via carriages or you’ll be able to rent a bicycle. 

What about travelling between islands? Well, this is just as easy because boats move between the islands all day and you just need to hop on (free of charge!). 

Visiting Prince’s Islands 

When researching Prince’s Islands Istanbul, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed; which island should you visit first and where should you spend your time? Ultimately, this is up to you but we’ve got some information that’ll be useful in your decision; 

Buyukada – Home of the Greek Orthodox Monastery Aya Yorgi, the largest wooden structure in Europe, and the famous Cankaya street full of wooden homes (one previously belonged to Leon Trotsky), Buyukada is perhaps the most touristic of the islands and makes for a stunning trip. 

Heybeliada – Alongside traditional wooden houses, you’ll find yourself on the most natural of the main four islands and it can be great to immerse yourself into the beautiful landscape. 

Burgazada – Perhaps the quietest island, it was once home to Greek citizens during the Ottoman Empire. 

Kinaliada – Finally, we have the least forested of the four and an island who’s name refers to the rich colour of the surrounding water.

For a day of nature, surreal scenery, and stunning landscapes, Prince’s Islands Istanbul will not let you down!

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Bosphorus Istanbul

Bosphorus Istanbul

For many, they’re drawn to Istanbul because they like the idea of being caught between two continents. Therefore, a trip to the Bosphorus Istanbul is a must. As a natural strait, the Bosphorus stretches for around 20 miles and it connects the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea.

In other words, it is the small stretch of water that connects Asia and Europe. For Turkey, this means the middle ground between Asian Turkey and European Turkey. 

As well as being significant for Turkey, this narrow strait has significance for the whole world because it also connects the Aegean, Dardanelles, and Mediterranean seas.

Without this narrow strait (the world’s narrowest for international navigation purposes), the international landscape in terms of politics and trade would be very different. 

Geographical Importance 

Why is this narrow stretch of water so important to so many countries? Because it allows a passage from the Black Sea all the way to the Indian Ocean (via the Suez Canal) as well as the Atlantic Ocean (via Gibraltar).

For example, Russia relies on this strait being accessible to receive goods from various countries. If conflict were to be seen and the strait closed, Russia would have a significant percentage of their incoming goods blocked. 

With great power comes great responsibility, and control over this stretch of water has been one of much debate through the centuries. The Bosphorus Istanbul is the only way the Mediterranean and Black Seas connect, so it has both military and commercial importance; it also allows Russia and Ukraine to access major seas.

In addition to the Russo-Turkish War in the 19th century, this strait was important for Allied Powers to attack the Dardanelles in WWI.

Today, both the Dardanelles and Bosphorus straits (together named the Turkish Straits) are integral to oil exports from Russia. After travelling through, the Russian oil reaches Western Europe and even the US. 

Visiting the Bosphorus Istanbul 

As well as the history and geographical importance of the Bosphorus, it’s also a beautiful location to visit while in Istanbul. Running through the heart of the city, it has three large bridges and passes a number of Ottoman palaces, the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, and various hills and villages (all boasting stunning Ottoman architecture). 

In total, over 600 waterfront houses sit on the Asian and European shoreline and the palaces within view include Feriye, Topkapi, Hatice Sultan, Yildiz, Dolmabahce, and Adile Sultan. Elsewhere, a number of landmarks can be seen (depending on your location on the Bosphorus) such as Yoros Castle, Maiden’s Tower, Borusan Museum of Contemporary Art, Galatasaray University, and the Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University.

When visiting, we recommend planning exactly where you wish to go beforehand to prevent extremely long walks and disappointment. Fortunately, there are plenty of touring companies that will guide you around and highlight the main sites.

Also, public and private boats traverse the strait each day and will point out the major sites in the area if this is a route that appeals to you. 

For local inhabitants, the Bosphorus is a popular area and you’ll quickly see why when visiting. During the summer months, the climate is appealing and the shores are filled with beautiful neighbourhoods, parks, hotels, cafes, restaurants, gardens, and much more.

If you plan on continuing your research, we recommend looking for the following neighbourhoods; Sariyer, Besiktas, Bebek, Tarabya, Ortakoy, Rumelihisar, and Arnavutkoy. 

With a day dedicated to Bosphorus Istanbul, you can enjoy your time between two continents and the many fantastic sights and sites it has to offer!

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Dolmabahce Palace Istanbul

Dolmabahce Palace Istanbul

While on the Bosphorus, one of the most impressive sights is of Dolmabahce Palace. With construction starting in 1842 before finally finishing in 1856, this particular palace comes from the height of the Ottoman Empire and is located in the Besiktas District of the country’s largest city.

As always, we’re going to explore the history of Dolmabahce Palace before then offering advice for visiting in 2019 and beyond. 

History of Dolmabahce Palace Istanbul 

Taking around 14 years to build, Abdulmecid I ordered the construction of the palace and he was the 31st sultan of the Ottoman Empire. For many years, the sultan had resided at Topkapi Palace but soon noticed how this had fallen behind many of the extravagant palaces of Europe. For a more modern building with a contemporary style, Abdulmecid decided on a new construction costing around five million Ottoman gold lira. Of course, this means nothing to us now but experts believe it equates to $1.5 billion (today) or 35 tonnes of gold.

Over the years, Dolmabahce Palace housed no fewer than six sultans right up until 1924 where ownership was transferred to the national heritage (Turkish Republic). With this in mind, it wasn’t long before the Republic of Turkey’s first president, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, spent his summers at the palace. 

Architecture

If you visit Dolmabahce Palace Istanbul, one of the first things you’ll notice is the stunning architecture and design of the building. As the largest palace in Turkey, Dolmabahce has some impressive numbers; 

  • 45,000 square metres of space
  • 285 rooms
  • 68 toilets
  • 46 halls
  • 6 baths

In terms of design, it seems to offer a blend of four different styles; traditional Ottoman, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Rococo. From the inside, the Ceremonial Hall has an impressive chandelier which many believe was a gift from Queen Victoria. With 750 lamps and a weight of 4.5 tonnes, it’s not something you’ll see every day. 

Visiting Dolmabahce Palace

Now we understand more about the history and the stories of Dolmabahce Palace, you need to know some visiting information so you can continue your learning experience. Fortunately, Dolmabahce Palace is open from 09:00 until 17:00; however, you will need to be aware that the palace doesn’t open on Mondays and Thursdays. To get inside, you’ll pay 40 Turkish Lira which converts to around £5.70. Considering you’ll get access to a 19th century building with cultural, social, architectural, and historical significance, we think this price is (more than!) fair. 

If your trip to Istanbul comes in the summer, we highly recommend planning your day carefully because the queues for Dolmabahce Palace will quickly build. If you leave it too late, you’ll be waiting out in the sun for long periods. Therefore, we recommend visiting early in the morning. Not only does this allow you to avoid the queues, it also means you can explore the palace and take in the experience without bustling with others for position. 

If you want to learn about Dolmabahce Palace Istanbul as you walk around, visit the official website for the palace and fill out a contact form. After providing some details, you can reserve a guided private tour and this saves waiting on the day itself. You’ll have the option to visit the official section of the palace (Selamlik), the privy chambers (Harem), or both. 

Ultimately, we love a landmark that offers traditions, insights into cultures, and beauty – Dolmabahce Palace seems to fit this perfectly. From the inside out, the palace is stunningly extravagant and the combination of styles catch the attention immediately

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Spice Bazaar Istanbul

Spice Bazaar Istanbul

When it comes to so-called bazaars in Istanbul, there’s no doubt that Grand Bazaar is the one that garners most attention from tourists as well as those just interested in the history of the city. However, if you’re looking for something with more color and a bit more vibrancy, you could just find the answer with Spice Bazaar Istanbul. 

Located in the Fatih district, the name of the bazaar is something that has undergone change over the years and it still holds different names to different people. For example, historians have found documents suggesting the bazaar started as the ‘New Bazaar’.

Over time, it became affectionately known as the Egyptian Bazaar due to the funding; the market was built in 1660 with revenue from the Ottoman eyalet of Egypt. 

What about Corn Bazaar? That’s right, it has another name in Corn Bazaar but this is due to a mistake. In Turkish, a single word (misir) means both ‘Egypt’ and ‘maize’ which is why many started calling the complex Corn Bazaar mistakenly (this has since stuck!).

Now, it generally goes by the name of Spice Bazaar in the Western world because this is exactly what you’ll find when you visit…plenty of different spices. 

History Of Spice Bazaar 

Before we launch into what you can expect today, let’s first discover some of the history of this iconic location. Firstly, the building is within the same complex as the New Mosque and this played an important role in the early years. Why? Because the upkeep of the mosque would be paid for by revenue from the shops inside the bazaar. 

If you visit Istanbul, you’re likely to hear about the Great Fire of 1660. Lasting for more than 48 hours, this fire caused devastation for several neighbourhoods…but it also led to much redevelopment across the city.

Not only did the New Mosque undergo construction, but plans for the Spice Bazaar were also approved and commissioned by Sultan Turhan Hatice. As you may discover during your stay in the city, this was the Queen Mother (Valide Sultan) of Sultan Mehmed IV. 

For generations, and still today, the Spice Bazaar was the place to go for spices not just in this district but right across the city. However, some traditions are being lost and other stores are starting to replace the spice shops. 

Spice Bazaar Istanbul Today 

In total, there are 85 shops inside Spice Bazaar that sell traditional spices, sweets, Turkish delight, dried fruits, nuts, and other foods. Elsewhere, catering to the tourist market, the bazaar has expanded over the years to include jewellery and souvenirs. 

As mentioned previously, one of the things you’re likely to notice immediately is the vibrancy and colours that reach the eyes as soon as you enter the bazaar. The building really is a feast for the eyes, and you’ll also get some brilliant shots with your camera if you choose to visit.

While shopping around and exploring the different vendors, don’t forget to look up and around because the beautiful architecture is also worth your attention. 

If you want to buy, you’ll find that some products are marked but they tend to be higher than spice shops elsewhere in the city which means sellers expect you to haggle.

If you don’t feel comfortable touring alone, there are plenty of companies that’ll take you on a guided tour of the city and include Spice Bazaar. 

Finally, the complex will be open from 09:00 until 19:00 every single day (except for public and religious holidays). For an experience of colour and history (maybe even taste), Spice Bazaar Istanbul will not disappoint.

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Hippodrome Istanbul

Hippodrome Istanbul Turkey

While many of the sites you’ll visit while in Istanbul will be related to religion, since this has played such a major role for the city, you’ll also find locations such as the Hippodrome Istanbul. Sometimes called the Hippodrome of Constantinople, this is one of the best ways to immerse yourself into the social and even sporting side of Istanbul’s history.

In this short guide, we’re going to teach you about the history of the Hippodrome, what it offers now, and why it’s worth your attention while in the city! 

History Of Hippodrome Istanbul 

In the 21st century, not much of the original hippodrome structure survives…but this doesn’t mean it can’t provide a fantastic experience. If you were to search ‘Hippodrome of Constantinople’ into a search engine, you’d find stories of the glory days of the city and the great chariot races of the Byzantine period. However, its history actually predates the ‘imperial capital’. 

The hippodrome was first built around 200 CE when the city was still called Byzantium. As the city was rebuilt by Emperor Septimium Severus, it was then introduced for all manners of entertainment. Just over 120 years later, Emperor Constantine the Great grew the city, upgraded the hippodrome, and the city became known as the City of Constantine (Constantinople). 

As time passed in the Byzantine period, much of the social life revolved around the hippodrome not only for chariot races, although these played a huge role, but also for horse racing and various other events. With four teams taking part in each chariot race, each one would normally be backed by a political party in the city so the events had importance. For example, the Leukoi (Whites) and Prasinoi (Greens). 

Monuments Of The Hippodrome 

If you’re planning a visit to the Hippodrome during your time in Istanbul, one of the most fascinating aspects is the many monuments around the grounds. First and foremost, the Serpent Column was acquired alongside many other monuments in an attempt to raise the image and profile of the city.

Otherwise known as the Tripod of Plataea, this particular monument was originally located in Delphi (the Temple of Apollo) and was a celebration of the Greek victory over the Persians. Once moved, it took pride of place and has remained in the centre ever since.

As well as the Serpent Column, you’ll also come across the Walled Obelisk, the Obelisk of Thutmose III, and the Statues of Porphyrios. 

Visiting Hippodrome Istanbul 

What remains at the Hippodrome today? Before anything else, we should mention that official literature regarding Hippodrome Istanbul will refer to the location as Sultan Ahmet Square.

Although the all-important racetrack has been covered in paving, the paving around the actual track has been raised (by around two metres) so it’s easy to imagine the size of it all. As part of a landscaped garden, the aforementioned monuments have been placed into specific spaces too. 

With a guided tour or an audio guide, you’ll learn all about how sultans and emperors would spend their days attempting to outdo one another in this social hub.

While you’re walking around, it’s worth looking out for the newer additions to Sultan Ahmet Square too. For example, the German Fountain (or the Kaiser Wilhelm) was gifted to the city by the Kaiser towards the end of the 19th century. On his second visit to the country, he was so impressed by the hospitality that this generous donation was made. 

With a few hours at Hippodrome Istanbul, you won’t be disappointed. Thanks to the monuments, the old racetrack, and the stories you’re likely to learn of emperors and sultans, it’ll be a memory you won’t forget in a hurry!

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Blue Mosque Istanbul

Blue Mosque Istanbul

As part of the Historical Areas of Istanbul which is now collectively a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Blue Mosque Istanbul was first completed in 1616 and remains just as functional today as it was back then. Despite over 400 years of operation, the call to prayer sounds across the city and many people rush to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, as it’s also known, to kneel on the red carpet. With hand-painted blue tiles and no fewer than five domes, the Blue Mosque has long-been a tourist site and seemingly nothing will ever change this fact. 

History Of Blue Mosque Istanbul

Between 1603 and 1618, there was a large war with Persia and it led to uncertainty across Istanbul and the wider country. In an attempt to re-establish Ottoman power, the sultan at the time, Ahmed I, chose to build a huge mosque. Compared to previous victors, there were no spoils from the war to fund the mosque so it was paid for with Treasury funds and it became an imperial mosque; the first of its kind for over four decades.

Why Blue Mosque?

If you’re to visit the Blue Mosque today, you’ll see the blue lights that have been installed around each of the five domes (it’s an impressive sight after the sun goes down!). However, electricity wasn’t around in the early 17th century so how did the mosque acquire its name? Well, there are two tales on this and the more common is that it simply boasts Blue Iznik tiles on the walls inside. 

If you want a more romantic reason, some say sailors passing across the Marmara Sea could see the mosque reflected in the water. Additionally, they saw the stunning blue hues reflected in the mosque which gave the building a bluish glow. 

In terms of architecture, there are thought to be well over 20,000 tiles on the walls inside the mosque. Additionally, there are only four mosques across Turkey that can boast six Minarets (tall, thin towers) and the Blue Mosque Istanbul is one of these. Again, we can bring some romanticism into the story here because the words for ‘gold’ and six’ were similar back in the 1600s. If folklore is to be believed, the architect built six minarets when the sultan actually requested gold minarets. 

Visiting The Blue Mosque

Although the mosque still has religious importance to society in Istanbul, they also recognize the historical importance of the building and therefore allow tourists for much of the day. During the five daily prayers, the mosque will close to all non-worshippers for around 30 minutes so all visitors need to be wary of this (prayer times can be found here). If you have enough time to plan your visit, we also recommend approaching the west side of the mosque, from the Hippodrome, since this will offer the best picture opportunities (we all want the best Facebook profile picture, right!). 

The mosque is free to enter, and you’ll need to abide by some rules to stay respectful of the locals and traditions. For example, you’ll be provided with a plastic bag for your shoes as you enter. Also, women must wear a head covering (these are provided for free), flash photography is prohibited, and you should also remain quiet. 

The Blue Mosque Istanbul has staggering architecture and the decoration inside is likely to take your breath away. Even if you manage just a short visit, it’s well worth your time for the insight you get into the local culture, religion, and overall life in Istanbul.

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Hagia Sophia Museum Istanbul

Hagia Sophia Museum Istanbul

Across Istanbul, the city is filled with beautiful landscapes, stunning architecture, and a fantastic culture. All three of these combine for Hagia Sophia which was first opened as a Byzantine Christian Cathedral. Over the years, it has been through many changes but was eventually transformed into a museum in 1935. What stories does the museum tell? What can you do at Hagia Sophia Museum today? And is it worth your time while visiting Istanbul? 

History of Hagia Sophia Museum

Opened in the historic Constantinople (now Istanbul), this particular cathedral was completed in 537 CE which places it towards the early stages of the Middle Ages. At the time of erection, the huge dome in the centre contributed to a site that was considered ahead of its time in terms of engineering. Thanks to the work of many historians, we know that the cathedral was also likely the largest building in its time. 

Despite being built nearly 1,500 years ago, a combination of ceramic pieces and sand was used for the mortar joints – a combination modern-day builders would recognize as comparable to concrete. 

Uses Of Hagia Sophia Museum 

Thanks to the name, you can probably guess that the Hagia Sophia Museum is, in fact, a museum. But what transformations has it gone through while the society around the building has changed? Below, we’ve broken down its changing function; 
 

  • 537-1204 CE – Byzantine Christian Cathedral
  • 1204-1261 CE – Roman Catholic Cathedral
  • 1261-1453 CE – Greek Orthodox Cathedral
  • 1453-1931 CE – Ottoman Mosque
  • 1935 CE – Museum

In the grand scheme of things, the Hagia Sophia building has only been a museum for a small percentage of its life; 84 years out of over 1,480. 

Life As A Museum 

It was Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the very first president of Turkey who decided to transform the old building into a museum. Over the years, many structural issues have been encountered, including leaking water and a cracked copper roof, but the museum is still going strong for visitors today.

Compared to the original, the Hagia Sophia Museum is in its third construction which means the architecture has been altered. However, it remains a wonder of the landscape and allows visitors every day (except Monday). While opening times are 09:00 to 17:00 in the winter, this extends to 19:00 in the summer. 

What items does Hagia Sophia Museum hold? Currently, it’s a celebration of the religion and history of the city. As well as ‘Icons and Church Objects’, visitors will see ‘Tomb Objects’ and ‘Stone Objects’; the latter relates to the architecture and stone creations that surround the grounds. 

Throughout the calendar, the museum welcomes plenty of exhibitions and conferences too. Once again, these tend to celebrate the history of the building, art and artefacts relating to Turkey, Istanbul, and Constantinople, as well as the general culture of the city (and how it has shifted through the centuries). Thanks to these, and the general appeal of the museum, 3.4 million people visited the building in 2015 alone. In recent years, this has dropped slightly but it still has the appeal for both locals and tourists. 

For museums, the exhibitions and artefacts are important. However, the Hagia Sophia Museum boasts powerful architecture to keep the eyes moving from one magnificent sight to the next. As well as the huge dome in the center, the decor is remarkable and visitors will see features such as the Marble Door, the Emperor Door, the Nice Door, mosaics, the Wishing Column, and plenty more besides!

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