| While in Istanbul, we also visited Yerebatan Cistern (Basilica Cistern), a 6th century underground cistern, supported by 336 columns, used to supply the city with water; Dolmabahce Palace, built in the 19th century as the new main residence of the sultans; the Grand Bazaar with its 4000 shops; the magnificent Spice Bazaar; and the 13th century Galata Tower, known for having spectacular views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus Strait, Golden Horn, and Sea of Marmara. Seeing the Bosphorus Strait for the first time was a thrill as this strait, just 21 miles in length, was the strait that separated Europe and Asia and connected the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. Before leaving Istanbul we enjoyed a boat trip on the Bosphorus Strait plus an evening dinner show of Turkish folk dancing. |
