The Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace

There are a crap ton of people who visit Istanbul. I knew this, of course, but it was really highlighted for me when we went to visit these two popular sites. There were people everywhere and it was hard to get decent photos without Instagram photoshoots or other random wanderers getting in the way. I wish I had lived during the time of these places’ heyday so I could have experienced them as they were, not as an attraction to be ogled at by the masses, but it is what it is. These places were cool regardless, so enjoy!

The Basilica Cistern

Built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, the Basilica Cistern served as a water filtration system for the Great Palace of Constantinople. It continued to be used after the Ottoman’s took over all the way in to modern times. Now it is used as a great location for people to take Instagram photos. They’ve also jazzed it up by putting art sculptures down there, but they are pretty cool.

Topkapi Palace

After the conquest of Constantinople, the construction of this palace was ordered by Sultan Mehmed the Conquerer in 1459. It became the place where nearly 30 sultans ruled from until the construction of a new palace took its place. Now it houses various collections from the Ottoman Empire, including clocks, weapons and kitchen utensils.

Hagia Eirene

An Eastern Orthodox church located within the courtyard of the Topkapi Palace. Originally built by Constantine, it is the oldest church of the Byzantine empire. After the Conquest of Constantinople, it was used as an armory by the Ottomans and has basically fallen into disuse.