Turkey (Istanbul)
Northern Turkey, past the really neat border with Bulgaria in the mountains. A definite change
in climates!
Entering the outskirts of Istanbul, the most populated city in Europe.
The Hagia Sophia (ca. 532); formerly a basilica, then a mosque, and now a museum. It's
considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture and one of the most beautiful
buildings in the world
The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmet Mosque (1616).
On a ferry on the Bosphorus strait, taking a quick trip to Anatolia/Asia! Istanbul is the only
city in the world located on two continents (Europe and Asia).
Galata Tower (1348), a medieval Genoese citadel, at the northern side of the Golden Horn
Ouds, lutes and baglamas at a really cool music store. I want the black electric one to the right!
Valens aqueduct in Fatih, Istanbul; constructed by the Romans during the 4th century.
The Obelisk of Thutmosis III at the Hippodrome of Constantinople was brought from the
Temple of Karnak in Egypt by Theodosius the Great.
Taking a siesta; absolutely worn down by all the walking and travelling
Maiden's Tower (Turkish: Kız Kulesi).
Gardens at Topkapı Palace.
The Clock Tower at the Dolmabahçe Palace.
The evil ATM that ate my bank card. Imagine being stranded in Istanbul w/o money!
Wasted an entire day at the bank, unsuccessfully trying to get it back...
Gardens in Dolmabahçe Palace.
