Enchanting Türkiye: A 7-Day Odyssey for Families Amidst Ancient Wonders
Turkiye, where the tapestry of history unfolds amidst vibrant bazaars, turquoise coasts, and otherworldly landscapes, a 7-day journey awaits adventurous families. As the sun sets over Istanbul, casting its golden glow upon minarets and ancient structures, the promise of an unforgettable exploration begins. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the azure shores of Fethiye and the magical landscapes of Cappadocia, this itinerary unveils the perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and awe-inspiring wonders for families seeking a memorable escape. Days 1-3: Istanbul – Where East Meets West Day 1 Blue Mosque First, start off at the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque). Entrance is free. Both men and women are allowed to visit and explore the Blue Mosque. There are separate prayer areas for men and women. Visitors are required to dress modestly. For women, this typically involves covering their hair with a scarf and wearing clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Scarves are provided at the entrance. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I and designed by architect Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, construction began in 1609 and was completed in 1616. The mosque’s construction aimed to display the wealth and power of the Ottoman Empire during a period of both economic prosperity and military expansion. The mosque stirred controversy when it was built with six minarets, a number only surpassed by the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. This led to criticism, as it was perceived as an attempt to rival the holiest mosque in Islam. To resolve the issue, Sultan Ahmed I sent a gift of a seventh minaret to Mecca, thus easing tensions. If someone wanted to send me a minaret, I would not refuse. Please send me one. Aya Sofia Next, pay a visit to Aya Sofia (Hagia Sophia), right across from the Blue Mosque. It’s a monumental testament to Istanbul’s rich and diverse history. Once a church, later a mosque, then a museum, and finally a mosque again, its colossal dome and intricate mosaics are a mesmerizing blend of Byzantine and Ottoman influences. The highlight of this most holy site was the second floor, with all the Christian mosaics and stunning views. Sadly, the second floor is now closed to the public. Initially commissioned by Emperor Justinian I of the Byzantine Empire and completed in 537 AD. Designed by architects Anthemius of Tralles and Isidore of Miletus, it was the largest cathedral in the world for nearly a thousand years. In 1453, the Ottoman Empire, under Sultan Mehmed II, conquered Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) and converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque. Minarets were added, and its Christian iconography was covered or removed. Many pieces were uncovered at a later date. Ice Cream Love it or hate it, it’s an experience getting an ice cream in Istanbul. Definitely something for the kids, not for impatient adults. https://youtu.be/Hsn5DKGCAlA Don’t Forget your daily ice cream! Day 2 Archaeological Museums Start at the Istanbul Archaeological Museums (The Main Archeological Museum; Museum of the Ancient Orient; and the Museum of Islamic Art): Tucked away from the bustling streets, the Archaeological Museums offer a deep dive into Turkey’s historical treasure troves. From ancient artifacts to mesmerizing sculptures, each piece tells a story of civilizations long gone. It’s a quiet refuge where the whispers of the past beckon you to unravel the mysteries within. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=/i4pNle_TQgQ Here are five noteworthy artifacts that have garnered significant attention from the main Archeological Museum: Sarcophagus of Alexander the Great: This sarcophagus, dating back to the 4th century BC, is one of the museum’s most famous pieces. Although it’s not proven to be the final resting place of Alexander the Great, its intricate carvings depict scenes from the life of Alexander and showcase exceptional Hellenistic artistry. The Alexander Sarcophagus. This sarcophagus, discovered in the Royal Necropolis of Sidon (modern-day Lebanon), is celebrated for its intricate relief sculptures. Depicting scenes from the life of Alexander the Great, it stands as an exceptional example of ancient Greek artistry and storytelling on a monumental scale. The Tiled Kiosk: The Tiled Kiosk, also known as the “Museum of Islamic Art” within the complex, is a structure with impressive tiled decoration from the 15th century Ottoman period. The exquisite Iznik tiles showcase intricate geometric patterns and floral designs, highlighting the sophistication of Ottoman tilework. The Istanbul Mummy: Known as one of the museum’s intriguing exhibits, the Istanbul Mummy is the preserved body of a woman from the Roman period. The mummy provides insights into ancient burial practices and offers a tangible connection to the people of the past. The Siloam Inscription: This ancient Hebrew inscription, dating back to the 8th century BC, was discovered in Jerusalem. The inscription describes the construction of a tunnel to bring water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam and is a crucial historical document related to water engineering in ancient times. Basilica Cistern Next, descend into the mystical depths of the Basilica Cistern, where ancient columns rise from still waters, and the soft glow of lights reflects off the rippling surface. It’s a cinematic setting that feels straight out of a Dan Brown novel (maybe because it was in a movie from a Dan Brown novel) —a secret underworld beneath the bustling city where history and mystery intertwine. The Basilica Cistern, also known as Yerebatan Sarnıcı in Turkish, is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. It was constructed in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. The cistern is supported by 336 columns, most of which were recycled from earlier structures and showcase various architectural styles. Among these columns, two are particularly famous—the Medusa heads. The Cistern featured prominently in the movies From Russia with Love, starring Sean Connery, and Inferno, starring Tom Hanks. Whirling Dervish This can be a pretty magical experience if you have the time. Some restaurants will have free shows, like the one we caught here. https://youtu.be/r8pESHNsRbg Take in a Whirling Dervish Show Day 3 Topkapi Palace First, start at Topkapi Palace, with