Ah, the glorious Hagia Sophia of Istanbul – Turkey. The former church, Ottoman Mosque, official museum and now mosque again has saintly ambiences combined with Islamic and Byzantine architecture. Sitting in Istanbul's old city part known as Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia joins other nearby landmarks belonging to Turkey's UNESCO World Heritage list. The large dome, Christian … [Read more...] about The Beautiful Hagia Sophia of Istanbul and Why You Should Visit
Turkish History
I love learning about Turkish history. The timeline and stories of many people that have shaped this country, have helped me to form a balanced view of my time in Turkey. I especially prefer the Ottoman era, the tales of the sultans, harem, palaces and their dynasty. These articles are a review and thoughts about what I've learned from visiting ancient ruins, museums and reading recommended books.
Guide to the Majestic Ephesus Ancient City and Ruins
Ah, to see the Ephesus ancient city ruins is to see one of the world's most significant historical sites. The colourful timeline of Turkey's history means the country is awash with historical sites dating from many civilizations. Out of all them, Ephesus is probably the most well-known, attracting thousands of visitors every day. Ephesus ancient city is to Turkey what the … [Read more...] about Guide to the Majestic Ephesus Ancient City and Ruins
The Basilica Cistern of Istanbul and the Heads of Medusa
I walked down 55 stone steps, sensing dampness from water as I reached the bottom and the Basilica cistern. Sitting in Istanbul's touristic district near the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, it had been on my bucket list for months. The only sounds were whispers from tourists and odd drip of water. A vendor of souvenir stands in the far-left corner beckoned me over. I could dress … [Read more...] about The Basilica Cistern of Istanbul and the Heads of Medusa
The Impressive Stadium of Magnesia on the Meander
I’d drove past the sign for Magnesia ancient city ruins many times. Hardly talked about or featured in guidebooks, I figured there was not much to see, yet curiosity still made me want to visit. So last month, our hobby photography group piled into the cars and made our way there. Sitting in the Aydin region of Aegean Turkey, it was just an hour’s drive away from my home, and … [Read more...] about The Impressive Stadium of Magnesia on the Meander
Secrets of Yüksek Monastery & Church
Wherever I go, when locals tell me about an attraction or landmark that isn’t in my guidebooks, I fill up with frenzied excitement, and an intense urge to get there. That was my initial feeling when I found out about Yüksek Monastery and Church. On this occasion, my private guide and driver was taking me to the small district of Güzelyurt in the Cappadocia region. I’d wanted … [Read more...] about Secrets of Yüksek Monastery & Church