Up an at them (again) today, much to see here. First stop was the Topkapı Palace which was the home of the Ottoman Sultans for 4 centuries. From the outside it has the looks of a basic fort that conveys strength to those who see it. One you are inside though you find a more basic and humble place, mush more than one would expect considering how long the Ottoman Empire existed and how large it was. This we were told was due to the Sultans wanting to appear humble before god. I think they succeeded, WR Hearst’s San Simeon is much more opulent. Areas where the sultans did spurge was clothing, accessories (crowns, rings) and other day to day goods. The clothing was magnificent, they apparently never wore the same clothes twice. The crowns, rings and even the basic cups and jugs used in day to day life were crusted in jewels, all on display for us to see. Sorry, pictures were not allowed…
Next up was the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known more well known as the Blue Mosque. It is almost 400 years old and is still in active use today. We managed to slip in just before noon time prayers, an important event during Ramadan. Next up was the Church of Holy Savior in Chora, aka Kariye Museum. It was a Byzantine church then a mosque and now a museum. Simple looking on the outside, it contains some of the best frescos and tile mosaics we have seen. Unfortunately due to time and the cost of changing empires and religions most were damaged or removed however what was left was worth the time to visit and Kim and I were surprised by the quality of what we saw.
The final stop of the day was the Istanbul Spice Bazaar, aka the Spice Market. Many things were for sale there like in the Grand Bazaar, however the basic orientation is to food and there is much for the eye, nose and eventually the mouth to take in. We had a taste of Turkish Delight and my expectations were low would have to admit. But much our surprise it was great and we ate more than we should have.
Crashed at the hotel again tonight, we are at the point where we are beginning to collapse a little. Took Sydney for a swim again, her way of blowing off steam on these trips. Another wedding tonight, more sparks, fireworks this time during ceremony. Sade’s ‘Smooth Operator’ operator was played while the call to evening prayers was on. An odd meeting of lives, Turkey was been interesting on many levels. After the swim we lingered by the pool for a while enjoying the Bosporus enjoying the evening. The ever patient Sydney started to dance in the shallow parts. Can’t add much more to that…