Today, the group embarked on its first day of sightseeing. We visited Topkapi Palace (more info available here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topkapi_palace), where we were in awe of the intricacies of the courtyards and the beautiful mosaic patterns that adorned many of the walls and ceilings. We learned about the history of Mehmet the Conqueror and of subsequent Sultans that lived in the palace.
Aya Sofya was up next- an old Byzantine church that was turned into a mosque and now serves as a museum. Aya Sofya is gorgeous, huge and very, very old. Right across from Aya Sofya is the Blue Mosque. Its real name is Sultanahmet Mosque, but it's called the Blue Mosque because of it's stunning, largely-blue tile-work inside the domes. Lunch consisted of meze and kofte at a nearby restaurant that is famous for its excellent kebab.
We lastly toured the Basilica Cistern, also in the old Sultanahmet area of Istanbul, before taking care of some logistical issues, like exchanging dollars for liras and obtaining phone cards so that everyone can call home.
Next up is dinner at a local restaurant. Hopefully everyone can stay on top of jet lag and enjoy tomorrow, when several students and teachers will be featured on a live, national Turkish TV broadcast. Iyi aksamlar from Istanbul (good evening)!
- Sarabrynn
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