Istanbul
[birthday trip to] ✈︎
I’ve divided my photos into two sections: one featuring more street-style shots, and another showcasing the historically significant landmarks.
Everyday Istanbul
Historic Istanbul
Obelisk of Theodosius, 4th Century CE
The Obelisk, originally from Egypt (1479–1425 BCE), was re-erected on the Hippodrome by Emperor Theodosius I around 390 CE.
Valens Aqueduct, 4th-5th Century CE
Constructed originally in the late Roman period, and expanded under Emperor Valens in 375 CE, it provided a vital water supply to Constantinople.
Basilica Cistern, 6th Century CE
Built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in the 530s CE, this vast underground cistern was used to store and supply water to the city.
Hagia Sophia, 6th Century CE
Constructed under Emperor Justinian I and completed in 537 CE, Hagia Sophia served as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral and remains a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
Topkapi Palace,
1465–1478 CE
Construction of the Topkapi Palace began shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, serving as the imperial residence and administrative centre.
Rüstem Pasha Mosque, 1561 CE
Designed by the architect Mimar Sinan, this small but ornately decorated mosque was commissioned by the Grand Vizier Rüstem Pasha.
Blue Mosque, 1609–1616 CE
Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, the Blue Mosque was built featuring six minarets and is renowned for its blue İznik tiles.
Ortaköy Mosque, 1854–1856 CE
This elegant mosque was built during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I on the banks of the Bosphorus, exemplifying Ottoman Baroque architecture.