About this experience
Embark on a journey through the past of Istanbul! In the Archaeology Museum, you will see the gods of Greece and Rome and learn why there were no remains of Alexander the Great in his sarcophagus. In the Basilica Cistern, you'll understand why Medusa Gorgon deserves sympathy. And in Gulhane Park, you'll hear what happened to the women from the harems after Atatürk became president.
What to Expect
Archaeology Museum – gods, emperors, and the mystery of Alexander
Archaeology Museum is statues of Greek and Roman gods and heroes, sarcophagi with burials, the hall of ancient Troy, and a chronology of eras from ancient times to the present day. You will see the close connection between Olympic gods and Roman emperors. Examine the appearance of the determiners of human destinies. Peer into tombs and inspect the mummy skeleton.
You will learn how the greatest adventurer of the century discovered the mysterious Troy, with whom the gods of Olympus fought to protect people, and why there were no remains of the general in Alexander the Great's sarcophagus.
Basilica Cistern – aqueducts, the first settlement, and Medusa Gorgon
You will uncover the secret of vanished Byzantium through the example of the Basilica Cistern. Descend into the twilight of the underground and hear about the times when the city's water was stored in huge reservoirs and supplied through mighty aqueducts. You will also learn the legend of the founding of the first settlement in present-day Istanbul and understand why it was later called Byzantion or Byzantium.
You will sympathize - yes, it's not a mistake! - with Medusa Gorgon. Her head is located in the cistern and is turned in a way that people won't turn into stone by staring into her terrifying eyes.
Gulhane Park – dissent, the love of Suleiman and Atatürk
Next, you will stroll through Gulhane Park - a favorite place of Istanbulites. We will tell you about the Ottomans, the conquerors of Istanbul. We will mention Mehmed the Conqueror and explain who he was - an enlightened sultan or a ruler intolerant of dissent.
We will tell you about the love of Sultan Suleiman and Roxelana - perhaps they declared their love to each other in the gardens of Gulhane? We will also share the indulgences of harem women closer to the 19th century and what happened to them after the first President of Turkey, Atatürk, came to power.
Organizational Details
- You can adjust the program to your liking. Details can be clarified via correspondence.
- The museum halls are periodically closed for restoration, which will not hinder our study of the available artifacts
- The tour will be conducted by me or another guide from our team
Additional Expenses
- Admission to the Archaeology Museum (200 lira per person, children under 14 free)
- Admission to the Basilica Cistern (800 lira per person)
- Food, drinks, souvenirs (optional)
