Places to Visit in Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet is a historical and touristic district of Istanbul. It contains many important historical and cultural sites. Here are some important places to visit in Sultanahmet:
Hagia Sophia Museum: Hagia Sophia, one of the most important symbols of Istanbul, was built as a church during the Byzantine Empire, then converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Empire and started to serve as a museum in 1935. Hagia Sophia Mosque, which was transferred to the Presidency of Religious Affairs, was reopened for worship on July 24, 2020, with the first Friday prayer after 86 years, with a grand ceremony attended by President Recep Tayyip ErdoÄŸan.
Topkapi Palace: It is the palace where the Ottoman Empire ruled for 400 years. The harem hosts many sections such as the room of holy relics, clothing and weapon collections.
Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque): The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, is an important mosque of the Ottoman Empire built in the early 17th century.
Basilica Cistern: This underground water cistern, also known as the Basilica Cistern, was built during the Byzantine Empire and was used to store water. It is famous for its columns, known as the Column Forest.
Hippodrome Square: This square, which hosted horse races and various events in ancient times, attracts attention with its historical ruins and monuments.
Archaeological Museums: Archaeological Museums, which are a part of Topkapı Palace, consist of the Anatolian Civilizations Museum, the Ancient City Ruins Museum and the Ancient Eastern Artifacts Museum.
Conquest of Istanbul Museum: Located in Sultanahmet Square, this museum exhibits historical documents and artifacts about the conquest of Istanbul by the Ottomans.
Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum: This museum, which exhibits examples of Islamic art, hosts holy relics, manuscripts and works from the Ottoman period.
There are many more places to visit in Sultanahmet. However, the ones listed above are just a few of the most important places that reflect the historical and cultural richness of the district.
