#Ortaköy Mosque

[turkeyblogblr]

Ortaköy Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey: Ortaköy Mosque, formally the Büyük Mecidiye Camii in Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Turkey, is a mosque situated at the waterside of the Ortaköy pier square, one of the most popular locations on the Bosphorus. It was commissioned by the Ottoman sultan Abdülmecid I and its construction was completed around 1854 or 1856. Wikipedia

[famousinuniverse]

Ortaköy Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey: Ortaköy Mosque, formally the Büyük Mecidiye Camii in Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Turkey, is a mosque situated at the waterside of the Ortaköy pier square, one of the most popular locations on the Bosphorus. It was commissioned by the Ottoman sultan Abdülmecid I and its construction was completed around 1854 or 1856. Wikipedia

[postcard-from-the-past]

Ortaköy Mosque in Constantinople, modern-day Istanbul, Turkey

Ottoman vintage postcard, mailed in 1904 to Paris

[newmosbiusdesigns]

[illustratus]

Istanbul, View of the Ortaköy Mosque on the Bosphorus by Auguste Étienne François Mayer

[mutecevvil]

[gospocki]

through Istanbul 🇹🇷 🌊

[nastyacitrus]

[ismetgurbuz1994]

Ortaköy Camii

[cantadakalanmarketfisi]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kübra (@tomrishatununguncesi)

İstanbul'da bir gün batımı her daim büyüleyici..

[ivan-aivazovsky-paintings]

-Coffee house by the Ortaköy Mosque in Constantinople-

[jadeseadragon]

Auguste Etienne François Mayer (French, 1805-1890), Istanbul, View of the Ortaköy Mosque on the Bosphorus, oil on canvas, 72 x 100 cm. (top)

Kawase Hasui (Japanese, 1883-1957), Kujukushima Island, Shimabara, color woodblock print from the series Selection of scenes of Japan, 1922. (bottom) [source]

[have-you-been-here]

Ortaköy Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey

[interlet]

Before coming to istanbul...

Istanbul is a city with an important place in world history, known for its culture and cuisine. Located in western Turkey, Istanbul is a city that attracts tourists with its historic texture, breathtaking views, traditions, modern buildings, and shopping centers.

Istanbul is famous for its historical heritage. You can see many buildings dating back to the Byzantine, Ottoman, and Roman periods. Historical places such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, and Basilica Cistern are among the most popular places in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia is one of the oldest churches in the world with its 1500-year history and stands out with its architecture. Topkapi Palace, on the other hand, is the former palace of the Ottoman Empire and hosts many works of art from the Ottoman era.

Istanbul's cuisine is also famous for its taste and variety. You can find many traditional Turkish dishes such as lahmacun, döner, kebab, baklava, simit, and börek, as well as world cuisine and vegan restaurants. In addition, fish restaurants are also quite popular. Fish sandwich is a unique dish of Istanbul and can be found in many restaurants along the Bosphorus.

Istanbul has developed transportation with its historic trams, subways, buses, and ferries. Trams and subways allow you to travel easily within the city. The ferry provides a pleasant journey on the Bosphorus.

For shopping enthusiasts, Istanbul is famous for its famous shopping centers such as the Grand Bazaar, Istiklal Street, and the Spice Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest covered markets in the world and you can find all kinds of products there. The Grand Bazaar is famous for traditional Turkish handicrafts, jewelry, carpets, and silverware. Istiklal Street is famous for its modern shopping centers, boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes.

If you are going to Istanbul for the first time or have a travel plan, you may want to take a look at tips that will be useful for you. When it comes to accommodation, it is important to choose a place that suits your travel purpose. The city center is ideal for business trips or nightlife, while the historic peninsula region is ideal for cultural trips.

Places to stay in Istanbul include neighborhoods such as the historic peninsula, Ortaköy, Cihangir, Taksim, and Galata. The historic peninsula is a region where you can visit the Blue Mosque, Chora Museum, Istanbul Archaeology Museum, and Topkapi Palace, buy souvenirs from the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, and enjoy delicious food. Those who want to watch the Bosphorus view can choose Ortaköy. You can try the famous stuffed baked potato of the district while sitting on the shore and enjoying the view. Those who want to be close to the nightlife can choose Cihangir. Taksim is a region that offers cheap accommodation options in Istanbul.

The most suitable months to visit Istanbul are the spring months. Especially May and September are the most enjoyable times to visit Istanbul. The temperature in winter varies between 8-10 degrees and drops to zero degrees on some days.

Be careful not to hit the peak traffic hours. Traffic congestion during weekdays in Istanbul takes about 2 hours from 7.00 am to 9.00 am. Evening traffic congestion usually starts to rise after 4.00 pm.

If you're planning to go shopping in Istanbul, instead of shopping on the first day, take a stroll and do some research to find the right and affordable prices. Bargaining is also possible, but doing so with a handshake can help the other party develop sincere feelings towards you. Historical bazaars such as the Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, Mahmutpasa, and Tahtakale are ideal places for shopping in Istanbul.

Historical Bazaars in Istanbul: Grand Bazaar - BEYAZIT With its 550-year-old history, the Grand Bazaar is one of the most popular places in Istanbul's historical peninsula. As one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar has more than four thousand shops and stores that house a labyrinth of streets and passages, making it one of the most visited places among tourists.

Spice Bazaar - EMINONU The Spice Bazaar is a colorful spice market that both local and foreign tourists show great interest in. Selling all kinds of spices and medicinal plants, the Spice Bazaar is one of Istanbul's popular places and bazaars. It is located right next to the Eminonu Square.

Arasta Bazaar - SULTANAHMET Located next to Eminonu Square in the Sultanahmet district, the Arasta Bazaar is a colorful spice market that both local and foreign tourists show great interest in. Selling all kinds of spices and medicinal plants, the Spice Bazaar is one of Istanbul's popular places and bazaars.

Historical Copperworkers Bazaar - BEYAZIT Located in the area surrounded by the central walls of Istanbul University in Beyazit, the Historical Copperworkers Bazaar is one of Istanbul's oldest bazaars. Here you can find shops selling handmade copper objects and souvenirs.

Cultural Touring: You can find numerous historical sites and museums in Istanbul, most of which are located in the historical peninsula and many are paid. Except for the months mentioned above, there is a lot of crowds, especially during the summer months. The long queues that last for hours can tire you out, so the most suitable time is in the morning hours. Having a guide on these tours can add a lot to your experience. Here are some of the popular tour routes we will offer you:

1- Hagia Sophia Museum 2- Topkapi Palace Museum 3- Basilica Cistern 4- Sultan Ahmed Mosque 5- Sultanahmet Square 6- Dolmabahçe Palace 9- Maiden's Tower 10- Galata Tower

Transportation in Istanbul: Transportation in Istanbul is intense due to its population density and being the metropolis of Turkey. You can comfortably travel from one end to the other with public transport in Istanbul. Due to the density of public transportation, most visitors prefer special VIP vehicles for a more comfortable journey. However, since not every street and avenue is suitable for vehicles, walking would be a great activity that will completely integrate you with Istanbul.

Cuisine: In addition to the traditional Turkish cuisine, Istanbul also hosts select restaurants from world cuisines. The restaurants located in the historical peninsula are among the must-visit places. You can also experience this with a special boat tour with the unique view of the Bosphorus. The most popular choices are restaurants located by the sea. Make sure to reserve your spot in advance.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a world-renowned city with its historical heritage, traditions, cuisine, and shopping opportunities. By visiting Istanbul, you can discover this wonderful city and have an unforgettable holiday experience.

[turkeyblogblr]

İstanbul

City in Turkey

Main attractions

Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul, Turkey

Aya Sophia Mosque in Istambul, Turkey.

Maiden's Tower in Istanbul, Turkey

Ortaköy Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey

A view of Levent financial district in Istanbul from the observation deck of Istanbul Sapphire

Remote view of Galata Tower in Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul tram

Istanbul is a major city in Turkey that straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. Its Old City reflects cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here. In the Sultanahmet district, the open-air, Roman-era Hippodrome was for centuries the site of chariot races, and Egyptian obelisks also remain. The iconic Byzantine Hagia Sophia features a soaring 6th-century dome and rare Christian mosaics. 

Area: 5,461 km²

Postal code: 34000 to 34990

Area codes: +90 212 (European side); +90 216 (Asian side)

Districts: 39

Istanbul, Turkey (by Maria Teneva)

[bosphorus-dinner-cruise-istanbul]

Istanbul: A City of Wonders

Introduction

Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents—Europe and Asia—is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history and culture. As the largest city in Turkey, Istanbul has been a crossroads of civilizations for centuries, serving as the capital for empires such as the Byzantine and Ottoman. With its rich heritage, stunning architecture, and dynamic lifestyle, Istanbul is a captivating destination that attracts millions of visitors each year.

Historical Significance

The history of Istanbul dates back thousands of years. Originally known as Byzantium, the city was founded by Greek colonists in the 7th century BC. It later became known as Constantinople when the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great made it the capital of the Roman Empire in AD 330. This marked the beginning of a new era, as the city became a center of Christianity and a hub of commerce and culture.

In 1453, Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Empire, led by Sultan Mehmed II. This event transformed the city once again, as it became the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Under Ottoman rule, Istanbul flourished, with the construction of magnificent mosques, palaces, and bridges. Notable landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque were built during this time, showcasing the city’s architectural grandeur.

Cultural Heritage

Istanbul’s cultural heritage is a tapestry woven from its diverse influences. The city is home to a blend of Eastern and Western traditions, reflected in its cuisine, music, art, and festivals. The local food scene is a vibrant fusion of flavors, with dishes such as kebabs, mezes, and baklava tantalizing the taste buds of visitors. Street vendors offering simit (sesame-encrusted bread) and roasted chestnuts create an authentic culinary experience.

Istanbul also hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and dance to film and literature. The Istanbul Film Festival and the Istanbul Jazz Festival are just a couple of examples of events that attract international talent and audiences. These festivals showcase the city’s artistic vibrancy and its position as a cultural hub.

Architectural Marvels

One of the most striking features of Istanbul is its stunning architecture. The skyline is dominated by the minarets of grand mosques, palaces, and historical buildings. The Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is perhaps the most iconic structure in the city. Originally built as a cathedral, it later became a mosque and is now a museum. Its impressive dome and intricate mosaics attract visitors from around the world.

Another architectural gem is the Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets. The mosque is a functioning place of worship and a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors with its beautiful courtyard and prayer hall. Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the empire. Its lavish courtyards and stunning views of the Bosphorus make it a must-visit.

The Bosphorus Strait

The Bosphorus Strait, which divides the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, is one of the city’s most scenic features. Taking a ferry ride across the Bosphorus is a popular activity for both locals and tourists, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline, palaces, and waterfront homes. The strait is not only a vital waterway for trade but also a picturesque backdrop for leisurely boat trips.

Along the shores of the Bosphorus, charming neighborhoods such as Ortaköy and Bebek offer a lively atmosphere with cafes, restaurants, and markets. These areas are perfect for enjoying a meal while watching the boats pass by. The view of the Bosphorus Bridge, especially when illuminated at night, adds to the enchanting ambiance.

Modern Istanbul

In addition to its historical charm, Istanbul is a thriving modern city that embraces innovation and contemporary culture. The city has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and performance spaces showcasing both local and international talent. The Istanbul Modern Art Museum is a key player in promoting contemporary art and hosts exhibitions featuring prominent artists.

Shopping in Istanbul is a delightful experience, with a mix of traditional markets and modern malls. The Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, offers a maze of shops selling everything from carpets and ceramics to spices and jewelry. In contrast, contemporary shopping centers like Istinye Park provide a sleek environment for luxury brands and gourmet dining.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Istanbul’s nightlife is as dynamic as its history. The city boasts a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Areas such as Beyoğlu and Kadıköy come alive at night, offering everything from traditional Turkish taverns to modern nightclubs. The live music scene is thriving, with venues hosting performances from local and international artists.

One unique aspect of Istanbul’s nightlife is the rooftop bars that offer stunning views of the city. Enjoying a drink while watching the sunset over the Bosphorus is a quintessential Istanbul experience. The atmosphere is often lively, with music and dancing continuing into the early hours.

Conclusion

Istanbul is a city that effortlessly blends its rich history with modern vibrancy. From its architectural wonders and cultural heritage to its bustling markets and lively nightlife, there is something for everyone in this captivating metropolis. Whether you are wandering through the ancient streets, enjoying a meal by the Bosphorus, or experiencing the energy of its arts scene, Istanbul promises an unforgettable journey. As a city that has been shaped by centuries of history and diverse influences, Istanbul continues to inspire and enchant all who visit.