Turkeymap

Turkey

I flew Turkish Airlines.  If you have a layover of between 6 and 24 hours, you can either get a night in a hotel free or a free tour including dinner.  I decided to take the tour with my nearly 18-hour layover.  While it was a nice offer from TA, it just made me want to go back and explore. Which was probably the intention!
Img 5274

Interesting building

These appear to be restaurants. I liked the look of them. Unfortunately, since my time in Istanbul was short, I didn't get a chance to try any of them.
Img 5275

Obelisk of Theodosius

The obelisk of Pharaoh Thutmose III was erected during the 18th dynasty of Egypt. It was moved to Istanbul (then known as Constantinople) in the 4th century. 
Img 5292

Marble pedestal of the obelisk

When Theodosius had the obelisk erected in the 4th century, this pedestal was created showing scenes from his time. 
Img 5293

German Fountain

This commemorates anniversary of the second visit of German emperor Wilhelm II To Istanbul in 1898. It was built in Germany then reassembled here in 1900.
Img 5282

Sultan Ahmet Mosque

Also known as the Blue Mosque.  It was constructed between 1609 and 1616. It is the only mosque built with 6 minarets. The silhouette of this mosque has become the symbol of Istanbul. 
Img 5295

Haga Sofia

There were two versions built previously that both burnt down. This version was built between 532 and 537. During its long history, it was used as a church for 916 years and as a mosque for 481 years. Since 1935, it has been a museum. 
Img 5287

My first cat sighting in Istanbul!

Istanbul has a sizeable feral cat population. 
Img 5291

Second cat sighting!

The cats clearly see the city as their own property. 
Img 5298

Another cat!

Estimates of the cat population range from 100,000 to over a million. So I have to stop photographing every one I see.