Istanbul attractions are popular among the tourists coming to Turkey. Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, Dolmabahce Palace, Grand Bazaar, Beylerbeyi Palace and Turkish and Islamic Art Museum are some of the chief attractions in Istanbul that contribute immensely to the economy of the country.
Istanbul Attractions represents the cultural diversity of this city of Turkey. The attractions of Istanbul serve as the backbone of the tourism industry of the city. They attract tourists from the different parts of the world and thus generate a huge revenue for the country.
Given below are some of the most visited tourist attractions at Istanbul:
- Ayasofya – Ayasofya was world's largest Catholic church during the 16th century. At that time, it was considered to be synonymous with the city. This church of Istanbul was constructed on the ruins of two former churches by two famous architects, Isidorus of Miletus and Anthemius of Tralles. The construction of the church was completed in 537 AD. It was in 1204 AD that the church was destroyed by the Crusaders. Furthermore, in the 15th century it was transformed into a mosque by Mehmet II. The mosque was once again transformed into a museum in 1935 by Ataturk.
- Blue Mosque – Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmet Camii, is one of the most outstanding monuments in Istanbul. It was constructed by Sultan Ahmet I between 1607 and 1617 and is regarded as a specimen of Ottoman architecture. The mosque is famous for its intricately designed interiors. The Blue Mosque is decorated with Iznik tiles with floral motifs, typical of the Ottoman style.
- Turkish and Islamic Art Museum - Turkish and Islamic Art Museum was the residence of Ibrahim Pasa, Grand Vizier of the Sultan. At present, the venue houses rich collection of art works and sculpture that reveal rich cultural heritage of the city. This museum of Istanbul also presents an unparalleled collection of Islamic artifacts. Some of the items that constitute the rich display of the museum are Koran cases, illuminated manuscripts, textiles, ceramics and metalworks.
- Topkapi Palace Museum - Topkapi Palace Museum is located atop Istanbul's seven hills. It was constructed as a palace for the Sultan. The palace was the seat of the Ottoman Caliphate for about 400 years. It also served as a royal residence, harem and military barrack.
Yerebatan Cistern, Mosaic Museum, St Savior in Chora, Hippodrome, Galatasaray High School, Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, Grand Bazaar, The New Queen Mother's Mosque, Church of Theotokos Pammakaristos, Beylerbeyi Palace and Beyazit Mosque are some of the other sites that attract tourists from the different corners of the world.
