Turkey Travel Essay (8)

樊 灵感清泉

Part 8: Historical and Cultural Tour of Istanbul

1) Dolmabahçe Palace
2) St. Sophia Cathedral (Hagia Sophia / Ayasofya)
3) Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
4) Topkapı Sarayı (Topkapı Palace)

8-1 Dolmabahçe Palace, Istanbul
Under the blue skies of Istanbul, we slowly entered the Dolmabahçe Palace, a historical palace that witnessed the glory and decline of the Ottoman Empire. Located on the European side of the Bosphorus, it combines the magnificent architectural art of Europe with the nobility of Eastern royalty, like a jewel embedded in the coastline. It was built during the period of Ottoman Sultan Abdulmagid I in 1843-1856; it was the main palace of the late Ottoman Empire with a blend of Ottoman, Baroque and Neoclassical styles; it is extremely luxurious, with the world's largest crystal chandelier inside; and it is the place where the founder of the Republic of Turkey, Kemal Ataturk, resided in his later years. It is now a museum and one of the national reception sites.
Palace Gate Group Photo - Entrance spanning centuries
We posed for a group photo in front of the main entrance to the palace. This ornate gateway, with its cascading carvings, was once the gateway for the Ottoman Sultan to welcome foreign dignitaries and now welcomes travelers from around the world!
Sea Gate - The Palace of Dialogue with the Sea

The most amazing and famous of all Bosphorus "Sea Gate", with its white marble door frame leading directly to the sea, is a dream. With the stone steps of the palace at our feet and the transparent blue Bosphorus Sea in front of us, we stood between time and water.

Main Garden Hall - Everyday Romance for Royalty

The gardens of the palace are quiet and elegant, with a fountain in the pool that mirrors the main hall, and trees swaying as we stop here, where the sultans once held ceremonies and strolled in contemplation, and now leave the world with a sense of seclusion.

Coffee by the Sea - Relaxing Time

Before leaving the palace, we sat at an open-air café by the sea, sipping Turkish black tea and gazing at the silhouette of the city across the river. The sparkling sea in front of us, the sound of seagulls and laughter in our ears - this is the tenderness of Istanbul.

8-2 Sultanahmet Meydanı Square This is Sultan Ahmet Square, the historical heart of Istanbul, a cultural crossroads that unites millennia of civilization and diverse faiths. Right in the middle: the German Fountain, a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II after his visit to Turkey in 1898 and built by the Ottoman Empire the following year, symbolizes the friendship between the two countries. Its octagonal shape combines neo-Byzantine and Islamic styles, and its interior dome is decorated with gold mosaics, making it ornate and dignified; Background: Hagia Sophia / Ayasofya This majestic domed building, originally constructed in 537 A.D., was the grandest Christian church in the Byzantine Empire, and then transformed into a mosque during the Ottoman era. In the 20th century, it became a museum, and in 2020 it will be opened again as a mosque, symbolizing the deep layers of Istanbul's history; the square setting: history dances with life, Sultan Ahmet Square, originally a racecourse in ancient Rome's Constantinople, now serves as the city's cultural core. Surrounded by the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, as well as the Topkapı Palace and the Museum of Islamic Art, the square is a place of history and stories at every step. The Obelisk of Theodosius, an obelisk from Ancient Egypt, is located in Istanbul's Sultan Ahmet Square (also known as "Mosaic Square"), which was originally constructed in the 15th century B.C. and then moved there by the Byzantine Emperor Theodosius I in the 4th century A.D. The obelisk is a symbol of Egyptian hieroglyphics. The body of the monument is engraved with Egyptian hieroglyphics, and the pedestal carving depicts the emperor watching the games. 8-2, Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, located in Sultan Ahmet Square in the Fatih district of Istanbul, Turkey, is a religious building of profound historical significance. It was built in 537 AD, initially as a Christian cathedral of the Byzantine Empire, and was one of the largest churches in the world at the time. Its magnificent dome, approximately 32 meters in diameter, is the building's signature feature, supported by four arched shoulders and two half domes, creating an open and magnificent interior.
The interior of the church was once adorned with beautiful Christian mosaic mosaics, while Islamic calligraphy and decorative elements were added during the Ottoman period.After the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it was converted into a mosque.In 1935, the Republic of Turkey converted it into a museum, and in the year 2020 the building was once again converted into a mosque.
Today's Hagia Sophia, a fusion of Christian and Islamic architectural styles and decorative arts, has witnessed the rise and fall of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires and has become an important symbol of Istanbul's history. With its majestic dome, magnificent mosaics and rich historical layers, it attracts visitors from all over the world and is a globally recognized cultural and religious heritage.
This is the exterior of one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, Hagia Sophia / Ayasofya.

This is the inner door of Hagia Sophia, which looks out onto the central dome and the view of the nave. Above the doorway are mosaics from the Byzantine period depicting Christ and the saints, a testament to the building's history across many civilizations and religions Located above the south door of Hagia Sophia, this mosaic fresco depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Infant Jesus in her arms, seated on a throne, and to the left and right of her are two important Christian emperors of Byzantium: on the left is Constantine the Great, holding a symbol of the city of Constantinople, which he founded; and on the right is Justinian the Great, dedicating a model of Hagia Sophia, which symbolizes the construction of the cathedral he built. The entire work is set against a gold background, revealing a strong atmosphere of sanctity and symbols of glory.
From a Catholic (including Orthodox) point of view, this image has a profound faith significance. The Virgin Mary is honored as the "Mother of God" (Theotokos), and the Jesus in her arms symbolizes the birth of the Savior, reflecting the Catholic Church's reverence for the miracle of Christ's birth. The dedication of the city and the temple by the two emperors symbolizes the humble submission of earthly authority to God, and expresses the theological core of "power in the service of faith, and all glory to God". The position of the mosaic itself is also symbolic, as it is located above the passageway into and out of the Temple, reminding all who enter: the true King is Christ, and the true glory belongs to God.
This work is not only a treasure of Byzantine art, but also a profound reflection of the Catholic and Orthodox Christian views of the supremacy of God, the veneration of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Christ-centered beliefs, and is an important symbol of the intertwining of faith, art, and politics.
This is a view of the magnificent interior of Hagia Sophia. Huge chandeliers, circular plaques in Islamic calligraphy and a golden dome, surrounded by crowds, emphasize the unique charm and historical weight of this fusion of Christian and Islamic styles. 8-3, the famous Blue Mosque: known as the Sultan Ahmet Camii (Sultan Ahmet Mosque).
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Turkish: Sultan Ahmet Camii), is one of the most famous and spectacular mosques in Istanbul, Turkey, and a representative masterpiece of Ottoman architectural art.
Built by order of the Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I in 1609-1616, it is also known as the "Sultan Ahmed Mosque". Has 6 minarets (minarets), which is extremely rare in the Islamic world, usually only the Great Mosque in Mecca has such a number of towers; the interior decoration using more than 20,000 pieces of Iznik (Iznik) tiles, blue and white as the main color, painted with tulips, lilies and other botanical motifs, so the West called it "Blue Mosque "The dome is magnificent, with many windows and abundant natural light. The main dome is 43 meters high and 23.5 meters wide, demonstrating a high degree of architectural skill.
It is an active mosque with five regular daily prayers; it is also an important tourist attraction in Istanbul and is open to non-Muslim visitors (but avoid service times and be aware of the dress code).
Sultan Ahmad Square in the Old City, facing Hagia Sophia, symbolizes the dialogue and fusion of Islamic and Byzantine cultures
The main entrance to the Blue Mosque (the main gate is undergoing restoration work) reveals the mosque's magnificent front façade and the soaring Minaret, a representative style of late Ottoman Islamic architecture. Visitors and worshippers come and go, reflecting its status as both a religious shrine and a world-class tourist attraction. On the east side of the mosque's courtyard, one of the long colonnades and minarets is in the background. Outside the courtyard, there are large shade trees, and the space is open for visitors to walk through freely, making it a place where many people stop to take photos and meditate on their prayers.
Looking up at the building at this very moment, reflecting the respect and admiration for this historic building, right?
8-4, Topkapı Sarayı (Topkapı Palace):

Topkapı Sarayı is located in the Fatih district of Istanbul, Turkey, on the Sarayburnu headland of the historic peninsula, near Sultanahmet Meydanı Square. It is a prominent location overlooking a breathtaking view of the sea on three sides: the Golden Horn (Haliç) in the north, the Bosphorus (Boğaziçi) in the east, and the Marmara Denizi (Marmara Denizi) in the south. Adjacent to the Ayasofya Cathedral and the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), the palace is a symbol of the former power of the Ottoman Empire.
The palace was built in 1459 by order of the founding sultan of the Ottoman Empire, Mehmet II ("The Conqueror"). At its peak, it covered an area of 700,000 square meters, comparable to a small city. The architectural style is a blend of Islamic, Ottoman and Byzantine features, and the whole is a multi-courtyard, multi-functional complex, including courtyards, pavilions, cloisters, mosques, and imperial dining rooms. The palace is divided into several areas:
- First courtyard: public area with the Imperial Armory and the Palace Gate adjacent to Hagia Sophia.
- The Second Courtyard: The Administrative Center, containing the Imperial Dining Hall and the Imperial Council Chamber.
- The Third Courtyard: The Sultan's private residence, which houses the Treasure House and the Royal Library.
- The fourth courtyard: laid out with gardens and pavilions, it is a place of rest for the Sultan.
- Harem: For the queen, consorts, princes and maids, richly decorated and heavily guarded.
The palace holds many Islamic holy relics, including the legendary holy robes and hair of Muhammad, as well as rare relics such as the staff of Moses, the sword of David, and the footprints of angels.
Since 1924, Topkapı Palace was converted into a museum and opened to the public, and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is one of the entrances to the Topkapı Sarayı Palace in Istanbul. Its Ottoman architecture is emphasized by the tall stone walls, Islamic-style arches and golden Arabic calligraphy decorations. The crowds in front of the gate show its current status as a popular tourist attraction. This is the Staff of the Prophet Moses, circa 13th century B.C.E. This staff is said to be the sacred staff used by Moses in the Bible and the Quran, which parted the Red Sea, turned into a serpent, etc., symbolizing God's power and guidance. (Symbol of faith) This is the Footprint of Prophet Muhammad. This stone, which bears the footprints of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is considered by Muslims to be an extremely sacred relic, symbolizing his true presence and influence. Sword of Prophet David (Sword of Prophet David). Approx. 10th century B.C.E.. The sword is said to have belonged to David (Daud), the king of ancient Israel, who was known for his bravery and justice. The sword symbolizes the power and glory of the warrior king. (Symbol of faith) Topkapa Palace Golden Pavilion (Iftariye Pavilion)

Iftariye Pavilion in the fourth courtyard of Topkapır Palace: a small, delicate, open pavilion structure with a gold-plated dome at the top, hence the name "Golden Pavilion"; supported by four thin pillars, the design is elegant and fully reflects the lightness and dignity of Ottoman royal architecture; the pavilion is surrounded by a marble balustrade, providing a wide view and one of the best high points in the palace. The pavilion is surrounded by marble balustrades and has a wide view, which is one of the best high points in the palace. Built in the late 17th century or early 18th century, for the Ottoman Sultan ** in Ramadan to enjoy Iftar (Iftar) ** when used, so called "Iftariye". It was also used by the Sultan as a royal platform for viewing fireworks, fleets, and cityscapes during festivals and celebrations. The pavilion not only symbolizes royal glory, but also serves as a symbolic meeting point between power and landscape.
The Iftariye Pavilion in the fourth courtyard of the Topkapa Palace is the perfect place to capture a panoramic view of the First Bridge and the Straits.
The Golden Pavilion, located on the topmost observation deck of the palace, was the place where the sultan rested and looked out over the Bosphorus.
The golden domed pavilion symbolizes the royal power and glory. The Golden Horn and the new city of Istanbul can be seen in the background. (e.g., Galata Tower, Independence Avenue area.)

This is the garden area of Topkapır Palace: the stone balustrades and red brick walls of the palace are in the foreground, and the lush garden vegetation is in the back. The blue waters of the Bosphorus and the Istanbul skyline are still visible in the distance. The unique perspective of Topkapı Palace - overlooking the confluence of Europe and Asia in the midst of lush greenery - is demonstrated. Topkapa Palace with a view of the Bosphorus and the Eurasian Bridge.

Panoramic view of the Bosphorus and Turkey from the observation platform of Topkapır Palace.
The first transcontinental bridge linking Europe and Asia, the Bosphorus Bridge (15 July Martyrs Bridge /
(Boğaziçi Köprüsü). Straddling Europe and Asia, it is a symbol of Turkey's geographic and cultural crossroads.
The left side is labeled as Europe and the right side as Asia, clearly showing the geographical charm of the "Crossroads of Europe and Asia
This is information on Turkey's three transcontinental bridges connecting Europe and Asia

1. Bosphorus Bridge (Boğaziçi Köprüsü)

AKA: July 15 Martyrs Bridge (15 Temmuz Şehitler Köprüsü)
Address: connecting Beşiktaş on the European side with Üsküdar on the Asian side
Date of completion: October 29, 1973 (to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkey)
Length: 1,560 meters; main span 1,074 meters
Historical significance: The first transcontinental bridge in Istanbul and one of the first bridges in the world to connect two continents, it was renamed in honor of those who lost their lives during the attempted coup d'état that took place here in 2016.

2. Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (Fatih Sultan Mehmet Köprüsü)
AKA: Second Bosphorus Bridge
Address: connecting Sarıyer on the European side with Beykoz on the Asian side
Built: 1988
Length: 1,510 meters; main span 1,090 meters
Origin of the name: Named after Sultan Mohammed II, the Conqueror, who captured Constantinople in 1453.
Role: Mainly for long-distance and transit traffic, easing traffic in urban centers.

3. Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge (Yavuz Sultan Selim Köprüsü)

AKA: Third Bosphorus Bridge
Address: The northernmost point of the Bosphorus, connecting Garipçe and Poyrazköy.
Built: August 26, 2016
Length: 2,164 meters; main span 1,408 meters
Features: It is a railroad-highway shared bridge is currently one of the longest rail-highway hybrid bridges in the world.

Origin of the name: Named after the Ottoman Sultan Selim I (Yavuz Sultan Selim), who first brought the caliphate to the Ottoman Empire.
Turkey Travel Essay

Parts 1-8

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