Day 2 and still no sign of our luggage!
We decide to head out to Topkapi Palace early to beat the crowds and that was a great move. Once we got our museum cards and got in, it was like we had the place to ourselves, which made for some stunning photographs.
The sheer size and scale of this palace and the different style of architecture make this a must see attraction in Istanbul. The tiles are colourful and opulent yet the design of the place is actually quite simple. There were excellent views of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn from the palace. Walking around this place full of history was an incredible feeling.
Highlights were the armoury and treasury that contained the treasures of the sultanate. The Harem was also stunning in terms of the gorgeous tiles used. I did find it a tad depressing as it was really lacking in light and at times reminded me of a gilded prison.
Next up was the Hagia Irini or the church of the Divine Peace. This ancient building was a Christian church and had not been converted into a mosque. The cross still remains as do some fragments of mosaic tiles. Otherwise it is a bit of a depressing sort of place which is stark and not richly decorated.
We strolled to the Hagia Sophia next door. We couldn’t go in because it was closed today but we were treated to the midday call to prayer. It was an amazing soundtrack to view this spectacular piece of Christian and later Islamic architecture.
Feeling peckish we grabbed a simit and made our way to the grand bazaar. WHOA! I knew the bazaar was big but this was INSANE! From the peace and quiet of Topkapi, the bazaar was an assault on the senses and we instantly felt overwhelmed by the jewelry, leather, spice, sweet and clothing vendors. We tried to get out and got lost doing so. Not surprising as it is the oldest and largest still running covered market in the world.
We made our way out and had a donner kebap wrap from a small street café. Best value for money every! $2.50 for a chicken wrap – it was delicious.
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