Filed under Turkey

Mount Nemrut, Turkey

Situated between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers, Northern Mesopotamia is actually South East Turkey. With so many worthwhile places to see in this area, one that probably should not be missed is what has been described as the eighth wonder of the ancient world – Mount Nemrut. Now, I think “eighth wonder” might be overstating … Continue reading »

The Sultan’s Harem: Topkapi Palace, Istanbul

The Sultan’s Harem: Topkapi Palace, Istanbul

Ahhhh, Topkapi Palace.  Topkapi Palace was built between 1459 and 1465 by Mehmet II shortly after his conquest of Constantinople.  Rather than a single building, it was conceived as a series of pavilions contained by four enormous courtyards, a stone version of the tented encampments from which the nomadic Ottomans had emerged. It is difficult … Continue reading »

Turkey – Scenes of Istanbul

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) and interior The New Mosque The Blue Mosque The Grand Bazaar and The Spice Bazaar – the ultimate medieval “shopping center,” with over 4000 shops There’s an informal bazaar outside that is possibly even more interesting because of characters like this: And lots of cats Basilica Cistern – Beneath Istanbul lie hundreds … Continue reading »