In Search of Constantinople: Walking Tour of Ancient Istanbul
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Age
0+
Group size
1-4
Transport
On foot
Language
English
Duration
2 hours
About this experience
In the middle of the first millennium AD, Constantinople - then the capital of the Roman Empire and Byzantium - was considered the main business center and the largest city in the world. Modern Istanbul is a dynamic metropolis. But the signs of the vanished Byzantine Empire still stir people's minds. We will find its traces together and immerse ourselves in the legends of shrines and palaces.
What to Expect
The mysterious ancient Constantinople is still here, in Istanbul. The Byzantine heritage peeks through among temples, palaces, streets, and squares. Almost nothing is fenced off or labeled. But it can be seen - if you know where to look. In search of traces of the ancient empire, you will need to:
- trace the path from Hagia Sophia to the Basilica of Theodosius and Justinian's Hagia Sophia
- examine the frescoes-mosaics attributed with healing effects
- find traces of the love between Justinian and Theodora
- locate the handprint of the Ottoman conqueror Mehmed and the supporting column where an angel dwelt guarding Hagia Sophia
- study the mosaic plots and discuss interesting details
Walking Route
- Hagia Sophia
- Former Great Palace grounds
- Mosaic Museum
- Acropolis (main square)
- Cisterns (freshwater reservoirs)
- Church of St. Irene
Organizational Details
- Some museum-churches may be closed for restoration, inquire for details when booking
- Women are advised to have a headscarf for entering the church
- Additional entrance fees to be paid:
- Hagia Sophia €25 per person
- Mosaic Museum from €12 per person
- Basilica Cistern 800 lira (around €23) per person. If desired, we can replace it with one of the free small cisterns
- Church of St. Irene 500 lira (around €15) per person. If desired, it can be viewed from the outside
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