TURKEY
Country Overview:
"Turkey, a captivating blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy, where delectable cuisine and a resilient spirit intertwine."
My journey to Istanbul in August 2020, during a time of limited travel options, was a serendipitous escape. The city embraced me with open arms, its rich history, bustling streets, and culinary delights leaving a lasting impression. I spent nearly three months exploring Istanbul's hidden corners, immersing myself in the local culture, and savoring every bite of its world-renowned cuisine. Although my time in Turkey was shorter than I would have liked, the memories of its welcoming people, breathtaking landmarks, and mouthwatering street food will forever hold a special place in my heart. Turkey is a destination that truly captivates the senses and nourishes the soul.
Hagia Sophia // Istanbul
Hagia Sophia was never really on my bucket list of things to see, but hey, when in Turkey…
Hagia Sophia was built in 537 as the patriarchal cathedral of the imperial capital of Constantinople, it was the largest Christian church of the eastern Roman Empire and the Eastern Orthodox Church. In 1453, after the Fall of Constantinople to the Ottoman Empire, it was converted into a mosque. In 1935 the secular Turkish Republic established it as a museum. In 2020, it re-opened as a mosque.
It was built by the eastern Roman emperor Justinian I as the Christian cathedral of Constantinople for the state church of the Roman Empire between 532 and 537, the church was then the world's largest interior space and among the first to employ a fully pendentive dome.