May 17 - Boarding, Browsing, Bargaining, and Boating on the Bosphorus

We had  a very early flight this morning from Antakya to Istanbul. Istanbul was known as Constantinople in ancient times. Airport security here was interesting, and a little different than ours.  I'm not sure what set off the xray, but a few of us got a VERY thorough pat down.  Overall, things went very soothly, and we arrived in Istanbul with enough time to squeeze in a trip to Hagia Sophia. It is Saturday in Istanbul and there many student groups and tourist in general. For you kids at home, they take field trips on the weekend.  It does not mean a day off from school. 

  

The Hagia Sophia started out as a massive church built in the fourth century A.D. About 900 years later, the Turks captured Constantinople and converted it to a mosque.  Thankfully, they didn't destroy or deface the Christian mosaics like they did in many places.  They simply covered them with plaster.  In 1935, the first president of Turkey converted it from a mosque into a museum.  It is a contradiction today, like many things we have learned about in Turkey.  They have uncovered many of the beautiful Christian mosaics and they stand in close proximity to giant round medallions that are inscribed with the names of Muslim prophets.  The ceiling, columns and walls are ornately carved and painted. The floors are smooth marble, sculpted over time with the footsteps of millions.  Some of the walls are covered in a patchwork of  multi-colored and patterned marble.  The pictures cannot begin to capture the size and workmanship, and artistry.  

We spent a little time shopping in the world famous Grand Bazzar.  It is an experience.  I would imagine it was a nightmare for most of the men.

Next was a private boat ride down the Bosphorus.  This is the straight where the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara meets. It is part of the border that divides the Asia and Europe. The water is partly salt and partly fresh water and eventually dumps into the Mediterranean. Along the water are ancient palaces, famous "wooden homes" that are worth many millions, and even a hunting lodge.  We even passed a group of women on a boat celebrating an upcoming wedding.  It seems to be something akin to a bachelorette party.  

We had a wonderful dinner followed by an interesting walk through the nearby streets. I'll tell you that story another time.  I'm a day behind and will post more picture after dinner