Tim and I took an unforgettable journey to the ancient city where East meets West. Formerly known as Constantinople, the clash of faiths in this city provides a spectacular backdrop for learning about Islam, the Ottoman Empire and the eventual spread of Christianity to the world. We spent 5 days in Turkey, staying in the new town near Galata Tower and discovering the treasures of old places like Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia. We also took a boat to the Asia side of Istanbul and enjoyed a meal on the Bosphorus River.

Istanbul, Turkey

Hanging out in front of the Blue Mosque, Istanbul

An afternoon meal of fresh seafood served riverside

The Bosphorus

rickety houses on the shores of the Bosphorus

Galata Tower from the boat

Street vendors prepare fresh fish daily

Turkish men love to enjoy lunch at these little tables set up around town

The spices of the Grand Bazaar–probably the largest and busiest market I’ve ever been to

Galata Tower as seen from Topkapi Palace

Egyptian obelisk, Istanbul

Woman in prayer, Blue Mosque

Interior dome, Blue Mosque

Courtyard view of Blue Mosque

Intricate mosaics line the upper balcony of Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

Minbar

Signature of a great ruler…Hagia Sophia

Basilica Cistern, an underground church in Istanbul

Currrent fashions for Muslim women

Admiring the fountain of youth, Topkapi Palace

These Turkish tiles have vivid turquoise and blue colors

Topkapi Palace, where the king and Harem resided

Topkapi Palace with view of Bosphorus in distance

Turkish flag hangs from buildings lining Indepence Blvd, the night spot for city dwellers

Mosque at night, Istanbul