Istanbul – the 2010 European Capital of Culture

Istanbul is the European Capital of Culture in 2010. What better time then to explore this ancient city’s rich and vibrant past? Why not stay at some luxurious Istanbul hotels, immerse yourself in the city’s magnificent heritage, and sample its soul by visiting these three iconic structures.

Topkapi Palace

Built between 1459 and 1465, Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi) is one of Istanbul’s most famed architectural jewels. No visit to the city is complete without wandering the courtyards and halls of this famous building complex, which was home to the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire for some four hundred years. The palace was conceived by Mehmet II the Conqueror. He captured Constantinople in 1453, extending the Ottoman Empire across Europe and Asia. The city was renamed Istanbul and was transformed into the Ottoman Empire’s wealthy capital. The palace was constructed as Memhet II’s grand residence.

A general admission ticket to Topkapi Palace gains you access to the main grounds, gardens, halls and courtyards. The palace treasury and harem require additional entry tickets.

Cemberlitas Hamami

The iconic Cemberlitas Hamami Turkish baths are a must-visit attraction in Istanbul. Dating from 1584 they were designed by Mimar Sinan, chief architect to the ruling Sultan, Selim II. It was however his wife, Nurbanu Sultan, who had the baths commissioned for the reasons of establishing a revenue stream to support the Valide-i Atik Charity. Originally, two separate entrances were in operation – one for the men and the other for the women. Today, just one entrance is used.

A Turkish bath is a unique and invigorating experience. On entering Cemberlitas Hamami you select whether you wish to bathe unattended, or whether you require an attendant to provide an exfoliating scrub and massage. Visitors change in the cold room, and then move through to the hot room with its heated stone platform. There is no time limit for bathing, although an hour and a half is typical. You then leave the bathing area to dry. Well worth a try!

Valens Aqueduct

Spanning Ataturk Bulvari highway in impressive style is the Valens Aqueduct – a Late Roman / Early Byzantine water-carrying system. Its 86 arches, arranged over two stories, is one of Istanbul’s most visually striking constructions, and arguably one of its most easily located architectural attractions. The water bridge now marks the points on the valley sides between Istanbul University and Fatih Mosque. It is thought to have been built under the watchful eye of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, and then later extended during the rebuilding of Constantinople by Constantine I. From whichever direction you approach Valens Aqueduct, it is simply breathtaking.