Istanbul

On return to this city full of history, we took the opportunity to explore a few more places we had yet to see. One being the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, or more commonly known as the Blue Mosque due to all of the blue handmade ceramic tiles that line the interior. The grandeur cannot be captured here,
a truly amazing piece of art.
























The Basilica Cistern was built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian (527-565) and can hold 100,000 tons of water storage. It is right across the street from the Aya Sofia, and of course underground. The two Medusa heads used as column bases are a bit of a mystery, as to where they came from and why they were used, but are excellent examples from the Roman Period.
















We have a new found respect for how carpets are made. Wow.




Our last night in town, views over the Golden Horn and of the Galata Tower.
A great last night in Istanbul...for now.