Few cities can boast such a rich history as Istanbul. In some cases, visiting the largest city in Turkey becomes the main goal for tourists, in others-they come here for one or two days as part of an excursion and return to Turkish resorts.
Sultanahmet Square
How to start exploring Istanbul? First of all, many tourists try to visit the oldest area of the city – Sultanahmet Square, because it is in this place that the main attractions of the capital are located within walking distance from each other. Here you can feel the atmosphere of a Magnificent century.
Once upon a time there was a Large Palace opposite the square, which served for many centuries as the residence of Byzantine emperors. The square itself was a huge Hippodrome. Local residents often called it the “Grand Circus”, as it hosted mass entertainment-gladiator fights, and later chariot races. Parts of the historic structure have been preserved in Sultanahmet Square.
Walking through the surrounding area, you can find not only the fragments of the walls of the ancient hippodrome, but also the obelisks “Constantine” and “Egyptian”, located in the center of the architectural ensemble. The composition is complemented by a Serpentine column located between the obelisks.
Later, the Ibrahim Pasha Palace was built to the left of the Egyptian obelisk, which recently became a museum that preserved the relics of Turkish and Islamic culture. Nearby you can see the German fountain of the XIX century-a symbol of the commonwealth of the two countries.
Many beautiful religious buildings are located here, among them the Blue Mosque or Sultanahmet Mosque occupies a special place. In honor of her, the square received its modern name.
Blue Mosque
For more than 400 years, one of the most beautiful and majestic buildings in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque, has been located next to the main square. Iznik ceramic tiles create a heavenly shade. This structure was built at the beginning of his reign by the young Sultan Ahmed.
At that time, the Ottoman Empire was defeated in a war with Austria, and a 16-year-old boy decided to build a mosque in order to appease Allah. If earlier mosques were built only in gratitude for the victory over the enemy, then the Blue Mosque became a symbol of petition, sacrifice to Allah. For such a large-scale construction, ancient buildings had to be demolished.
So, for example, the Grand Palace, which for a long time served as the residence of the Byzantine emperors, disappeared from the face of the earth. The construction was completed in 1616, and since then the flow of believers, as well as tourists who want to visit the center of spiritual culture of Istanbul, has not faded.
Baezid Mosque
One of the most ancient and beautiful buildings can be called the Baezid Mosque (other variations of this name are Beyazit, Bayazid). Previously, many architectural structures were named after prominent personalities of the era. The mosque created by Sultan Baezid II in the XVI century is no exception.
According to legend, the source of inspiration for the creation of the so — called “house of prayer” was the Hagia Sophia. The ruler hired the best architect of that time and for 6 years supervised the construction of the great Muslim shrine. Of course, it was much smaller than the majestic Fatih Mosque.
However, shortly after the construction of the new mosque was completed, a terrible earthquake struck the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Many buildings were destroyed and required serious restoration. So, for some time, the Baezid Mosque became the main religious building of the capital. Each century has made its own changes in the architecture of the ensemble. So, for example, in the XVIII century, minarets that collapsed due to lightning strikes had to be restored.
According to the original idea, there should have been canteens, religious and primary schools, and a general hamam on the territory near the mosque. During the 16th century, these buildings were rebuilt, and now they are a local landmark.
Today, anyone can easily enter the mosque not only for prayer, but also to admire the magnificent interior of the mosque.
Suleymaniye Mosque
Anyone who has ever watched the TV series “Magnificent Century”, upon arrival in Istanbul, strives to visit all the places built during the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The Suleymaniye Mosque, built more than 400 years ago, is no exception. The ruler himself figuratively called it his “heart”, which even after his death will beat forever.
In addition, mausoleums were erected near the mosque, where the bodies of the Sultan and his spouse are buried. Under the leadership of a wise ruler, the Ottoman Empire reached its peak. The “magnificent century” was later called the long years of the Sultan’s reign. For 46 years, he took care of his subjects, carried out various reforms, and erected the greatest cultural monuments.
The sultan commissioned the talented architect Silan to work on the project. You didn’t have to go far for a source of inspiration – Hagia Sophia has long served as a model for many mosques. Since Istanbul was often exposed to earthquakes, it was necessary to take care of the strength of this structure – it took 3 years to create a reliable foundation for the future mosque.
And needless to say, such diligence was rewarded by the fact that no natural cataclysm could destroy Sulaymaniyah. The interior of the mosque attracts the attention of tourists. And of course, you can not pass by the cemetery, where outstanding personalities of the 16th century are buried. Visiting this mosque will bring pleasure not only to believers, but also to those who are fond of history.
Fatih Mosque
Many magnificent mosques adorn modern Istanbul. One of the most beautiful and visited mosques in the city is the Fatih Mosque. The very name of the religious building refers to the era of the reign of Mehmed II, who, as is known, was the conqueror of Constantinople.
The ruler erected the first huge mosque in the city, which towered over all the churches and temples built earlier. By doing so, the sultan wanted to show that a new religion, Islam, would now prevail here. To carry out his plan, Fatih had to make room for the building, and he ordered the demolition of the greatest Christian shrine – the Church of the Holy Apostles.
Here, on the territory of the temple, the bodies of all previous emperors rested. It was all destroyed. Instead of the tomb of the founder of Constantinople, the tomb of Mehmed II now stands here. Schools, canteens, and hospitals were built on the territory of the mosque in the XV century.
The Sultan wanted to attract the best teachers and doctors of his time. In the XVIII century, due to a series of earthquakes, the mosque had to be significantly rebuilt, and although now we can no longer see the original appearance of the building, its beauty attracts tourists from all over the world.
New Mosque
This mosque has another name – Walide Sultan. It is clearly visible from the coast of the local bay. The architectural complex was created at the beginning of the 17th century. In addition to the mosque itself, there were minarets, the sultan’s chambers, a school, a hammam, a fountain, a market and much more. The idea for the construction of a New mosque was suggested to Sultan Murad III by his mother.
However, there were not enough funds to implement the idea, and the janissaries spoke out against the construction. They said that the construction of a religious building is a waste of money. But in reality, they did not like the growing influence on the ruler of valide-Sultan (the title of the mother). For many years after the death of the sultan, construction of the mosque stopped, and only in the middle of the 17th century it was completed by the wife of the new ruler – Turhan Sultan.
Externally and internally, the mosque resembles a majestic palace-the windows are decorated with beautiful stained glass windows, and the walls are decorated with magnificent patterns of faience and porcelain. In a word, even those tourists who profess a different religion can see a lot of interesting things here. It is best to come on an excursion here at a time when there are no services in the temple.
Nuruosmaniye Mosque
No less attractive for a modern tourist is the Nuruosmaniye Mosque. Its name is very poetic and translates as “Light of Osman”. The location of the architectural complex is well chosen – it is located on a small hill near the Grand Bazaar. As well as near other mosques, there is a school, library, kitchen, fountain. Construction began in the middle of the 18th century. It took about 7 years to build this cultural monument.
Like many mosques, Nuruosmaniye required a gradual renewal of the internal and external appearance. The reason for this was the natural conditions, because of which the religious building had to be restored more than once. The mosque was designed by Simeon Kalf, who was of Greek origin. He used the Baroque style to create his creation out of granite and stone.
The architect made a real work of art — many travelers, having visited this temple once, returned here again more than once.
Rustem Pasha Mosque
This building is quite inconspicuous, and it seems that it is lost among the numerous shopping shops. But the interior of the building is quite unusual. In the mosque you can see Iznik ceramics, which has long been a symbol of Turkey.
The initiative to build the temple belonged to the statesman Rustem Pasha. Public opinion about him was very controversial. On the one hand, he helped uncover Sultan Mustafa’s plot against his father. On the other hand, he was known as a bribe taker and embezzler.
But he often spent the accumulated money for charitable purposes, for the construction of structures important for public life.
Shortly before his death, he decided to build a mosque for the Sultan, invited the famous Ottoman architect Minar Sinan.
Religious services are still held in the mosque to this day. There aren’t many tourists here. Perhaps this is due to the fact that the mosque is located quite far from other places of worship. It is also quite difficult for foreign residents to find the entrance to the building. But the interior of the shrine will interest even those who are far from religion.
Hagia Sophia
It can rightfully be considered the main attraction of the city. Many mosques in Istanbul were built on his model. Originally it was an Orthodox church. Subsequently, it was transformed into a mosque, and then into a museum. More recently, services have resumed here again. Hagia Sophia is considered the largest and most beautiful mosque in Istanbul.
It was built by order of Emperor Constantine I. Residents did not believe that ordinary craftsmen could build such a magnificent cathedral and claimed that heavenly forces were involved in the creation. During the reign of Justinian, the temple was burned, and the emperor could not accept such a loss – he erected a new cathedral, precious metals were used in its construction, and many architectural elements were collected from different parts of the world.
The ruler was proud of his creation – he claimed that the cathedral was in no way inferior to the temple created by Solomon. The admiration for Hagia Sophia continues to this day-tourists call it the most beautiful building in the history of mankind.
Egyptian Bazaar
This bazaar is not the largest in Istanbul, but surpasses all others in its attendance. Sellers here communicate freely in different languages of the world, which helps to find out as much information as possible about the products offered. The market building is located not far from the New Mosque and looks somewhat inconspicuous against its background.
But when you enter it, the heart stops with admiration-elegant cream ceilings and fancy patterns on the walls and ceiling attract the attention of visitors. Each of the building’s departments looks colorful because of the variety of products. Especially tourists are attracted to the cafe located on the 2nd floor, where famous rulers and actors visited. And from the windows of the market you can enjoy a magnificent view of the bay.
Some shops are located outside the building. Most of the goods are, of course, edible, but here you can also find furniture, jewelry and beautiful souvenirs. The choice is yours.
Grand Bazaar
If you want to choose unusual and rare souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones, be sure to visit the Grand Bazaar. It is very easy to find it – it is located near the Beyazit Mosque, as well as the stop where public transport stops.
Every day the bazaar is visited by several hundred thousand people and therefore the work in the local shops and shops is always in full swing. Many people do not have enough time to see even half of the local goods, so tourists go here on a guided tour, so as not to miss anything. On all days except Sundays, the bazaar is open from morning to evening.
What products primarily attract the attention of tourists? Of course, these are floor lamps and lamps of extraordinary beauty, exquisite amulets, unique ceramic products, jewelry made of precious metals, spices. And how not to take the most delicious Turkish tea with you? Here everyone can find what they like.
Balat Quarter
Anyone looking for a good place to go for a walk will appreciate the picturesque Balat quarter. Translated from Latin, the name of this area means “palace”. Many researchers agree that the quarter got its name due to the fact that the Blachernae Palace was built nearby.
Jews used to hide in this place from persecution. But then, after they left their homes and moved to Israel, the poor took their place. Since then, local residents have tried to avoid this area. Today, thanks to the art of local designers, the Balat quarter has acquired a new look.
There are cozy colorful houses in a row here, they attract with their variety of shopping stalls, shops, cafes. Among the most famous sights are the Church of St. Theodosius, the ruins of the Blachernae Palace, the Ahrid Synagogue. One of the streets of this area descends to a beautiful bay, on the coast of which you can make wonderful shots. And here everyone can choose the right gift for their loved ones.
Topkaps
Topkapi Palace stands out for its beauty among the extraordinary ancient buildings. Not surprisingly, this place is one of the most visited in all of Istanbul. Translated from Turkish, the name of the palace means “Cannon Gate”. Previously, it was customary to shoot a cannon in honor of the return of the ruler or his departure.
Sultan Mehmed II personally took up the design of the structure. According to the original plan, the harem was supposed to be located outside the walls of the palace, but in the XVI century the layout of the palace had to be changed – the wife of the new ruler wanted to be closer to her husband, and the sultan began to build new premises.
Only in the first half of the XX century the palace lost its direct purpose – the Sultanate was abolished, and Topkapi Palace was made a museum. The magnificent ancient building has turned into a keeper of world treasures – here are collected things that belonged to the Prophet Muhammad himself, the rarest portraits of Ottoman rulers, there is even the staff of Moses.
Now everyone can visit the palace for a small fee, on the territory of which one of the greatest Christian shrines is located – the Church of St. Irene. The path to the palace is preceded by 4 courtyards, which at one time provided additional security for the Sultan and his entourage.
In the last courtyard, you can find a secret underground passage – so that no enemy can harm the ruler. In short, everyone who is interested in history can find a lot of interesting things for themselves.
St. Irene’s Church
It is particularly significant for the entire Christian world. It was here that the text of the Creed, which is still spoken at every liturgy, was supplemented and finally approved. The creation of the temple dates back to the 4th century AD, and many mistakenly assume that the church is named after a saint named Irina.
In fact,” Irina “means” peace ” in Greek. It was he who waited for the entire civilian population during the long-term Civil War, and after its end, Constantine the Great erected this magnificent temple in the IV century AD. However, the church did not retain its original appearance – after the famous “Nika” uprising, many buildings were burned, including the Hagia Sophia.
After the suppression of the rebellion, the restoration of the relics of Constantinople was taken up by the Emperor Justinian. Therefore, the appearance that is known to tourists now – was recreated only in the 6th century. Of course, the Christian shrine also underwent changes due to the earthquakes that struck it, but in general it retained its architectural appearance. After many years, the church was turned into an armory, and then into a museum.
Now everyone can visit the temple. Many people need only 20 minutes to study it to the smallest detail — the building itself is quite small, and its interior is ascetic. Only the cross on the viper and verses from psalms written in colors attract attention. Often, because of the good acoustics, concerts were held here.
Basilica Cistern
One of the most ancient cultural monuments in Istanbul. From Greek, the word “cistern” is translated as “reservoir”. The magnificent structure began to be built during the reign of Constantine I, and was completed under the Emperor Justinian. According to legend, about seven thousand slaves worked on the creation of the Cistern, but the grandiose construction was started for a reason. The reservoir holds about one hundred thousand tons of water in case of drought or siege of the city.
The “sunken Palace”, as it is otherwise called by the Turks, is famous for its beauty. Columns can be viewed for a long time, as each ornament is unique. Two of these monuments depict the heads of Medusa the Gorgon, who has been terrifying since ancient times. One of them is turned upside down, and the other is on its side.
This was done so that people would not be afraid to look at her image. After all, if you believe the myths that have come down to us from Ancient Greece, looking into the eyes of this monster, a person could turn into a stone himself.
No less popular among tourists is the so-called “Column of Tears”, which” cries ” for those slaves who died during the construction of the reservoir. Until the 16th century, the Cistern was used for its intended purpose, but due to the capture of Constantinople, the reservoir was abandoned. And only in the XX century it began to be restored, a museum was opened, and a swimming pool was restored. They even shot episodes of films here.
Gulhane Park
It was once part of the Topkapi Palace. Its name translates as “Palace of Roses”. And indeed, the garden is full of magnificent samples of this type of flowers. But do not think that only roses reign in this park. Next to them are flowerbeds with fragrant tulips, and in winter you can enjoy the view of delicate forget-me-nots.
Gulhane has its own centuries-old history. Once upon a time, various celebrations were held in these places. During the Ottoman period, the gardens of the Topkapi Palace were located here. Fruit trees and flowers grew in them, and vegetables were also grown here, which were served to the Sultan on the table. Most of the pavilions located in these gardens were destroyed by fire. And in the XX century, the garden completely fell into disrepair.
At the beginning of the XIX century, the park was decided to be reconstructed. And now many travelers love this corner. Tourists often come here to enjoy a cup of tea with a view of the Bosphorus Strait.
Archaeological Museum
If you want to immerse yourself in the history of Istanbul, be sure to visit the Archaeological Museum. It houses valuable relics dating back to different historical eras. The idea of building the museum belonged to the famous artist, archaeologist Osman Hamdi Bey. In the XIX century, he advocated for the preservation of cultural monuments, sought to ensure that national values were not exported to other countries.
Initially, the building contained only a tomb dating back to the 4th-5th centuries AD. Gradually, the museum began to expand, and halls dedicated to the Ancient East were opened. Later, during the reign of Mahomed II, a medieval pavilion of tiles appeared in the complex.
At the end of the 20th century, a six-story building was added to the museum, in which the lower tiers are intended for storing exhibits.
Currently, three sections have been opened: tile, Ancient Eastern, and archaeological. There is a children’s museum for schoolchildren, which allows teenagers to immerse themselves in the history of the Ottoman Empire.
Visitors are interested in busts of Octavian Augustus, Alexander the Great, ancient chariots, precious coins, a statue of a lion, a part of the sculpture of Aphrodite that has come down to us, and much more. Everyone will find something to their liking.
Galata Tower
It is known for being visible from all points of the Beyoglu district. In height, it reaches 70 meters. This cultural monument is interesting not only for its history. Many tourists want to visit the observation deck, because from here, from a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area of Istanbul.
The tower’s history dates back to the reign of Emperor Justinian. At that time, it was a wooden structure, as stone construction was not developed. And only in the XIV century, the tower began to acquire a familiar, modern tourist appearance.
There was a lighthouse at the top to keep the ships on course. In different epochs, the tower served as an observatory, a calanche, and even a place of incarceration of prisoners. There is a legend that it was here that the experimenter Ahmed Celebi created an aircraft in the form of wings and, jumping from the top of the building, flew over the Bosphorus.
Today, the Galata Tower has become a museum object, it is visited by tourists from all over the world.
Galata Bridge
It has long been a symbol of the city for tourists. Everyone who comes here tries to walk along it, enjoy the view of the Golden Horn Strait and taste local fish dishes.
This bridge serves to connect the old and new parts of Istanbul. Its length is slightly less than 500 meters, but lovers of walking are only happy with this length. The unique feature of the Galata Bridge is that it is two-storeyed. The first, lower tier, is designed for those who want to walk at a leisurely pace with their friends, relatives or be alone. There are areas with cafes and cozy restaurants.
The second floor is intended for cars and other means of transportation. When large ships pass through the strait, the bridge is pulled apart. Galata Bridge has its own centuries-old history. Initially, it was made of wood, and for the passage you had to pay a certain amount. Subsequently, it was reconstructed several times. Its fifth version has survived to this day.
Fishermen especially liked this place. Tourists can also spend a good time here and rent a fishing rod. Those who are constantly engaged in this craft, immediately sell their catch. Locals bring fried fish sandwiches with them. This delicious dish is literally sold out.
Pantokrator Monastery
A unique monument of Byzantine architecture that has come down to us. Among religious buildings, it is the second largest and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The monastery in honor of Christ the Almighty, as it is otherwise called, was built during the reign of Empress Irene Komnene. Its successor was Emperor John II, who added to the monastery the Church of the Merciful Icon of the Mother of God and the Chapel of the Archangel Michael, which now houses the relics of representatives of the imperial family.
One of the tragic pages in the annals of the monastery was connected with the establishment of the Latin Empire. Emperor Baldwin built his own palace on the site of the place of worship. But after the expulsion of the Latins, Orthodox life returned to the monastery.
After the fall of Constantinople, the monastery was transformed into a mosque. Now the complex consists of two churches and a chapel that once belonged to the Orthodox culture, and a small building made in the Byzantine style. Tourists can visit the complex and appreciate the Byzantine architecture.
Museum of Photography
For the first time, the Museum of Photography opened in Istanbul not so long ago – in 2011. This event took place thanks to the Photo Lovers ‘ Association and the Fatih County Administration.
The museum is located in the building of the Center for Art and Culture. In addition to 4 exhibition halls, it also has its own library. Our employees organize exhibitions not only of professional photographers ‘ images, but also of amateur works.
There are also about 1,000 cameras and, according to the founders of the museum, all of them work. The oldest of them researchers refer to the end of the XIX century. These devices are hand-made, with a wooden case upholstered in leather.
In addition to cameras, you can see photos, tripods, and much more in the museum. The museum is open all week except Mondays. Admission is free for children under 14 years of age.
Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art
Lovers of Oriental culture will be interested in visiting the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, located near Sultanahmet Square. The collection includes ancient manuscripts, rare books, works of decorative and applied art, as well as unique carpets.
The complex was opened at the beginning of the XX century and has been constantly developing since that time. It received high marks from the Council of Europe and UNESCO.
Visitors can get acquainted with the Arabian, Ottoman and other cultures. The museum’s collection includes more than 40 thousand exhibits. They are divided into 7 departments.
For example, in the Department of art products made of wood-collected interior items brought from Muslim countries, the exhibition also presents carved tombstones. In the room intended for storing ceramics and glass, there are not only fragments of ancient dishes, there are also richly decorated sets, elegant lamps, fragile vases and much more.
Recently, a Department of artistic metal products was opened here. Visitors look with interest at objects made of brass and silver-these are dishes, combs, homemade jewelry. Everyone will find something interesting for themselves.
Railway Museum
It would seem that it is quite small in area, it is very popular with both tourists and locals. There is a lot to see here for people from young to old. Antique lovers will be amazed by the abundance of items that contain the spirit of the past. Young visitors try to look inside the unusual transport for them. In addition, many tourists are attracted by the fact that admission is free.
Another advantage is a good location. It is close to attractions such as the New Mosque and Topkapi Palace. The Railway Museum was recently opened at Sirkeci Railway Station in 2005. This is where the most famous train, the Orient Express, once ran. In just one year, the exhibition was visited by more than 50 thousand people, mostly foreigners.
At first, the collection consisted of just under 300 exhibits, but now the number has doubled. This is mainly due to the fact that railway workers ‘ families donated items that had been stored in their homes for years to the museum.
But despite the fact that there were significantly more items, the area, on the contrary, decreased. Previously, all the items were located in the large hall, which later had to be given to other tenants, and all the exhibits were moved to the building of the former Tourist Office.
The museum can be visited on any day of the week, except Mondays and public holidays.
Post Office Museum
Istanbul has a museum dedicated to the history of the post office, telegraph and telephone. The main post office of Istanbul is located in the same building.
The official postal service in Istanbul dates back to the 19th century. The building was located in the courtyard of the New Mosque, at the same time strict supervision of the post office was conducted. Later, the telegraph and telephone appeared. At the beginning of the XX century, the construction of the Ministry of Post Office building began. And already in 2000, the RTT (post, telephone and Telegraph) museum was opened.
The exposition is quite interesting. Here you can see a collection of postage stamps, clothes worn by postmen during the Ottoman Empire, watches and scales associated with the work of the post office and telegraph, and other outlandish things. The walls are decorated with portraits of post office managers from the time of the Ottoman Empire to the present day.
You can visit the museum on any weekday, admission to the premises is free, but it is worth noting that you need to take your identity documents with you.
Eminenyu Square
It translates from Turkish as “Before justice”. Presumably, the name of the square is connected with the Ottoman legal proceedings.
Located in the center of the eponymous district, it is considered one of the most picturesque corners in Istanbul and, at the same time, the busiest of the squares. Oddly enough, it is difficult to define its clear boundaries. It borders the Galata Bridge, the Golden Horn Bay, the Egyptian Bazaar, and the Rustam Pasha Mosque.
Invariably, the square becomes a kind of point of attraction for every tourist who decides to get acquainted in detail with all the corners of Istanbul.
In summer, tourists can sit at the waterfall, take a walk with their children, and enjoy the view of the embankment. Those who are hungry can go to one of the cafes, of which there are countless. Local food is also often sold on the streets – balyk-ekmek (or as they would call it in Russia – a fish sandwich). This is a surprisingly delicious dish, according to local residents. In addition, it quickly satisfies hunger.
Eminenyu also serves as a transport hub, making it easy to get to different parts of the city. And while tourists are idly spending their time, locals are rushing to the ferry or tram. Tourists can visit the Egyptian Bazaar, which sells all sorts of souvenirs, spicy herbs, oriental sweets and much more.
Ahmed III Fountain
Of course, Istanbul is not for nothing called the city of “flowing water”, because it is famous for its numerous fountains, which seem to compete with each other. But the most beautiful in the city is rightly recognized as the fountain of Ahmed III. Some people even remember the time when it was printed on Turkish 10 lira banknotes.
The fountain is dedicated to the famous Ottoman Sultan, who during his reign laid many gardens, built libraries and other cultural structures. The main purpose of the fountain is to provide water for travelers. As a sign of gratitude, local poets made tablets in which they praised their emperor in verse form.
The final phrase on the fountain calls all those who have ever tasted water from this spring to pray for Sultan Ahmed.
Aqueduct of Valens
For a long time there was an acute shortage of fresh water in Constantinople, as there were few sources available for drinking on its territory. In order to provide local residents with water, it was decided to build aqueducts (water pipes), thanks to which clean drinking water was supplied to citizens from the Belgrade Forest.
The decision that aqueducts should be built on city estates was made in the II century. But Constantinople gained the status of a capital city only in the 4th century during the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great. It was under his leadership that the old aqueducts began to be reconstructed and new ones appeared. All the rulers followed His example. At the initiative of the Emperor Valens, a new 900-meter aqueduct was built, which was named after the one who created it.
During the siege of the city, thanks to the spring, the inhabitants made water reserves so that the enemy could not starve out the city.
Surprisingly, time turned out to have almost no power over the building. The aqueduct was used by the townspeople for many centuries. The pipes that used to deliver water to the city are still preserved.
There are many attractions near the aqueduct: Pantokrator Monastery, Shehzade Mosque and others. Therefore, after getting acquainted with the unique architectural structure, you can visit other equally significant sights of the city.
Thus, in the Fatih area, you can see a lot of interesting objects. Therefore, it is better to allocate at least a couple of days for inspection, so as not to miss anything important. The old neighborhood will surprise you.
