Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Located in the historic district of Sultahnamet, the Aya Sophia Cathedral, or Hagia Sofia in Greek, is perhaps Istanbul's most famous monument. It was built by Emperor Justinian on the site of Byzantium's acropolis and completed in 537. After its completion, it was the world's largest cathedral for nearly 1000 years. One of its highlights is the massive dome, which stands 100 feet above the ground level. Numerous architectural features and innovations, such as flying buttresses, were incorporated to help it withstand earthquakes and the wear and tear of passing years. The cathedral has survived marauding crusaders, natural disasters and foreign invaders, and today remains a highlight of any trip to Istanbul. As of 2011, tickets cost $16.
Istanbul is, culturally as well as geographically, divided between the Asian and European continents. Take a ferry boat across the river to the Asian side and proudly tell your friends back home that you "visited" Asia. Numerous landmarks are situated on the Asian side as well, including the Anatolian Lighthouse, the Anatolian Castle and Cannon Hill, known for its great views overlooking the metropolis. You can take in an auto race at the Istanbul Park racetrack or go shopping in the busy commercial district of Kozyatagi. Uskudar, located right on the ferry docks, has some historic mosques and lively shopping streets as well. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Beylerbeyi, a majestic Ottoman palace. To reach the Asian side, take a ferry from Eminonu. Ferries depart several times an hour.
Beyoglu is Istanbul's "new town," although it is a couple hundred years old. Located on Galata Hill, this neighborhood was once prime real estate and has since fallen on hard times. However, in recent years, the neighborhood has undergone a revival and is now a tourist draw for its restaurants, interesting streets and historic architecture. It also offers striking views from atop the hill. Taksim Square is a busy plaza where you can people-watch and take pictures of the Monument to the Republic (1928) or take in a show at the Opera House. The Sheraton Hotel is also centered on Taksim, where a drink on the terrace will provide memorable views.
This is one of the world's largest and most ornate mosques and a symbol of Istanbul. Named for its bluish domes, the massive mosque has 260 stained-glass windows and 20,000 tiles inside. Its construction was commissioned in 1609 by an Ottoman Sultan, who is also buried beneath the mosque. It is renowned for its architectural beauty and intricate detailing, including ornate pattern work and fanciful calligraphy. The mosque was originally designed with six minarets, but a seventh was added to distinguish it from the Elharam Mosque in Mecca, which also has six. Muslims and non-Muslims alike are welcome to visit the mosque, though proper cultural decorum is expected. As of 2011, entrance is free, and visiting hours are daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though the mosque may not allow visitors during prayer times.