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Istanbul, 4.02.2025—Today was a day of discovery as we embarked on a memorable trip to Istanbul. We started with an early 7 a.m. breakfast before boarding our bus at 8 a.m. Our first destination was the historic heart of the city, where we explored the Hippodrome of Constantinople, once a center of chariot racing and civic life in the Byzantine era. Standing in the heart of the ancient grounds, we marveled at the Egyptian Obelisk, a relic brought to Constantinople in the 4th century by Emperor Theodosius I.
Our knowledgeable guide shared fascinating details about the Hippodrome’s rich history, before leading us to the majestic Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque. We were awestruck by its architectural beauty, with its intricate tiles, vast domes, and towering minarets. The mosque was bustling with tourists, all admiring the grandeur of this iconic structure.
Next, we had a chance to view the Hagia Sophia, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture that has served as a church, mosque, and now museum. Its massive dome and stunning mosaics left us in awe, as we stood at the crossroads of history.
A delicious, traditional Turkish lunch followed, offering a perfect opportunity to recharge before continuing our exploration. The vibrant streets of Istanbul’s city center were our next stop, where we strolled through lively markets, taking in the sights, sounds, and aromas of this fascinating city.
After a long day of exploring and learning about Istanbul’s rich history, we returned to our hotel before 6 pm, tired but grateful for an unforgettable experience.
- hector pascua
