This tour will allow you to see Istanbul in all its historical splendor. The program includes the following landmarks: Ibrahim Pasha Palace (Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts), Hippodrome Square, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hurrem Sultan Bath (exterior view), and German Fountain.
Hagia Sophia: This ancient monument of Byzantine culture is now one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was an active church until the fall of the monarchy. On July 24, 2020, Friday prayers were held in Hagia Sophia for the first time in 86 years. Its official name today is "Great Hagia Sophia Mosque."
Blue Mosque: One of the most significant symbols of Istanbul. It was built in the 17th century by order of Sultan Ahmed I, and it is a masterpiece not only of Islamic architecture but also of world architecture, and one of the largest mosques in the world.
Ibrahim Pasha Palace: Ibrahim Pasha was a childhood friend and the right hand of Sultan Suleiman. He was known for his exceptional diplomatic talents, was multilingual, and an excellent strategist and commander. He was married to Hatice Sultan, the sister of Sultan Suleiman I. The palace was a wedding gift from Sultan Suleiman himself. It is located on the grounds of the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople (now Sultanahmet Square). The exact construction dates are unknown, but it is known that the building underwent renovation in 1521. After Ibrahim Pasha’s execution, the palace became the residence of subsequent grand viziers. Later, it housed embassies, tailor workshops, military bands, and a prison. Since 1938, it has been home to the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts.
Hippodrome Square: It occupies part of Sultanahmet Square. The construction of the Hippodrome was initiated by Roman Emperor Septimius Severus in AD 203, back when ancient Byzantium stood where Istanbul is today. The square preserves ancient architectural monuments, including the Egyptian Obelisk made of white-pink Aswan granite (dating to the 16th century BC) and the Serpentine Column, symbolizing the Greek victory over the Persians in 478 BC.
Hurrem Sultan Bath: Built in 1557 by order of Sultan Suleiman for his beloved wife Hurrem Sultan. After restoration work in 2011, the bath was reopened and looks just as it did 450 years ago. It currently operates and is known as the most expensive and elite bathhouse in Turkey.
German Fountain: Located in the central Sultanahmet Square, the fountain was a gift from the Germans to the Ottoman Empire in memory of Kaiser Wilhelm II's second visit to Istanbul in 1898. It is built in a neo-Byzantine style with eight columns and is adorned with golden mosaics on the inside.
