We start our program with Hagia Sophia, former Greek Orthodox patriarchal cathedral, an imperial mosque during Ottoman Period, a museum since 1935 until 2020, and recently has been turned back into a mosque. Then we will see the German Fountain - a gift of Kaiser Wilhelm 2, and listen the stories of his liaison with the orient. We continue with Blue Mosque, another imperial mosque from 17th century. Next place to see is the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the center of Byzantine civic life, from political and theological controversies to chariot races and riots. We will see Topkapı Palace from outside before we drive to Suleymaniye Mosque.
We will have a walk starting from the historical Sirkeci Train Station. We will pass by the fishermen on the Galata Bridge and reach Karaköy District, the financial center of the Ottoman Empire, in other words the Ottoman Wall Street. We drive first to Dolmabahce Palace from here, then continue to Taksim Square to finish our day with Istiklal Street.
