The Piazzas, Museums and Fountains of Rome

14 June 202524 May 2025

Using my Omnia Roma Pass for the second day, I boarded the Hop On Hop Off bus to visit some of the highlights of the Roman neighborhoods. The Vatican Museum was not yet open, so I started touring the north end of Rome. I had a few hours before heading towards the Port of Civitavecchia for a seven day Mediterranean cruise.

A short walk from the Piazza del Popolo, I arrived at the Spanish Steps where I took a seat on a step to review my map. I found myself distracted by the people around me, but it was a great spot to check out the tourists in the piazza.

The Spanish Steps are popular with both locals and tourists alike. They were designed in the 17^th century to connect the Trinita dei Monti to the Piazza di Spagna below. Francesco de Sanctis was commissioned to design the steps that would one day become one of the most recognized landmarks in Rome. The platforms along the staircase provide great views of Via Condotti in the shopping district. The obelisk of red granite Sallustian stands 43 feet high in front of the church from one of these platforms as well. For a more spectacular view of Rome, tour books highly recommend a climb up the bell tower inside of the Trinita del Monti.

The ruins of Rome are a perfect outdoor museum in itself, but I have always wanted to view the art and archaeological items within the Vatican Museum. Displaying artifacts from over hundreds of years, the inventory was overwhelming and extraordinary. At minimum, I knew I was going to need at least a couple of hours to spend here.

The crowd was thick, pushing me from room to room until I reached the grand finale, Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel!

After having spent about three hours at the Vatican Museum with my thoughts on the Sistine Chapel, I knew it was time for lunch. Since Rome is a maze of unique squares that have a personality of their own, I was looking forward to finding the Campo di Fiore. Translated as the “field of flowers”, this piazza is one of the most colorful squares of Rome and was once a meadow where merchants sold their products. Since the Medieval Period, the Campo di Fiori remains to this day a lively market and meeting place.

Several restaurants border the Campo di Fiori and offer several options for a light lunch. I ordered a glass of Prosecco and the Margarita pizza. I found myself daydreaming and was caught unaware when my meal arrived so quickly. I couldn’t wait to try a slice!

Throughout Rome are souvenir stalls which sell local maps, bus and train tickets, snacks, postcards and tourist information. In contrast to the ancient ruins, it is a modern day necessity.

Back on the bus, I am quickly transported back in time to the entrance of the Roman Forum. This area of Rome was at its peak during the Roman Republic when Julius Caesar was emperor. A set of stairs leads to the Arch of Titus, erected to commemorate the Roman victory over Judea in AD 66. The Forum is the core of the Roman Empire, where decisions were made, deals were struck and death was an everyday occurrence.

To the left of the Arch of Titus is the famous Arch of Constantine which leads into Palatine Hill. The Hill was Rome’s first settlement and was the home of Rome’s founders Romulus and Remus.

The arch’s portico tells the story of Constantine’s Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312 AD. Constantine claimed that he had a vision from God which led to his victory. He swore to legalize Christianity and give his support to Christians.

Another important site in Rome is the Flavian Amphitheater, more commonly known as the Colosseum. After the brutal reign of Nero, it was Vespasian who commissioned the amphitheater as a gift to the Romans. This massive structure could hold up to 55,000 spectators and was built with 80 entrances to allow attendees to find their seats in a record time of 15 minutes.

With only a couple of hours before hailing a taxi to the port, I strolled over towards the Roman Forum for a closer view of the Basilica of Constantine and Maxentius. The three arches are all that remain of the largest building on display in the Forum. The basilica was the central location where the government’s legal and administrative duties were performed.

One final ride on the bus and I have arrived at the Trevi Fountain before taking the subway back to the hotel. This fountain is Rome’s largest and most famous. I took my first glimpse of Neptune rising out of the water with two Tritons and their sea horses and I could not look away. The sculpture is larger than life and the intricate detail and scale of this monolith is nothing less than awesome. I completed my day in Rome by throwing a coin in the fountain, and if the tradition is true, I will one day return to this magnificent place!

Have you ever visited a place that was so exciting but you just couldn’t find the time to see all of the sites? Let me know in the comments section below about your experience and how you handled it! I would also love to hear about your adventures in Rome, any recommendations or suggestions for my next visit! Many thanks for reading about my weekend in Rome and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Trinita dei Monti
Piazza della Trinità dei Monti, 3, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
Telephone: +39 06 679 4179

Admission Fee: There is no fee to enter the church, but a small offering is suggested.
Hours: The church is open from 10AM to 8PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; open from noon to 8PM on Wednesday and from 9AM to 8PM on Saturday.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are provided on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 5PM. Reservation is required and there is a fee associated with the tour: Adults are 12 Euro, Students and Children ages 12 – 18 are 6 Euros and Children under the age of 11 are free of charge.
Scenic View: Beautiful views of the plaza and the Via Condotti from the top of the steps leading up to the church.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several steps (the Spanish Steps lead up to the church, so wear comfortable shoes. Dress appropriately covering your shoulders and knees as you may be denied entrance if not covered up. A small offering may be requested so be prepared.

Vatican Museum
00120 Vatican City
Telephone: +390669881022

Admission Fee: 17 Euros to visit the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel independently. For additional types of tours, visit the website directly.
Hours: The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 9AM to 6PM (final entry at 4PM); Every last Sunday of the month, the museum is open from 9AM to 2PM.
Guided Tours: A long list of guided tours are available and can be researched on the website listed above.
Scenic View: Beautiful views of Rome from the various balconies; amazing artifacts and ancient relics as well as artwork in the Sistine Chapel.
Length of Visit: 5 – 6 hours
Tips for Your Visit: If visiting the museum independently, purchase your tickets in advance. Be aware that the museum is very crowded when the cruise ships are in port.

Roman Forum
Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6
00186 Roma RM, Italy
Telephone; +39 06 0608

Admission Fee: 12 Euros per adult, children under the age of 17 are free; The Admission Fee includes entrance into the Palatine Hill and the Colosseum.
Bus/Train Information: Buses 40, 44, 84, 780 and 810; Metro Station – Colosseo, line B- (blue)
Hours: Open daily from 8:30AM to 3:30PM (closed January 1^st and December 25^th) The ticket counter closes one hour before closing time. Confirm with the Roman Forum’s website: https://turisimoroma.it/cosa-fare/fori
Amenities: audio headsets, tour guides (additional charge)
Audio Guides and Guided Tours: Audio guides are available for a nominal fee.
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours total
Tips for Your Visit: Your ticket to the Roman Forum includes The Colosseum and Palatine Hill. For security reasons, it is strictly forbidden to enter the attraction with backpacks, camping equipment, bulky bags, luggage or trolley. Medium and small-sized backpacks are permitted, but may be screened by metal detectors. Bags may also be opened and visually inspected by security. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your water bottle to refill at the drinking fountains.

Colosseum/Flavian Amphitheater
Piazza del Colosseo, 1
00184 Roma RM, Italy

Admission Fee: 12 Euros per adult, children under the age of 17 are free; The Admission Fee includes entrance into Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Additional fee for a guided tour of the underground. All guests are FREE the first Sunday of the month.
Hours: Open daily from 8:30AM to 3:30PM (closed January 1^st and December 25^th) The ticket counter closes one hour before closing time. Confirm with the Colosseum’s website: www.the-colosseum.net/around/visit.htm
Amenities: audio headsets, tour guides (additional charge), bookstore
Audio Guides and Guided Tours: Audio guides are available for a nominal fee.
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours total (another hour for the underground tour)
Tips for Your Visit: The Colosseum is the most visited attraction in Rome. While the ticket line may be long, you may want to consider purchasing your ticket at the Palatine Hill as your ticket also includes entrance into the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill, located next door. For security reasons, it is strictly forbidden to enter the attraction with backpacks, camping equipment, bulky bags, luggage or trolley. Medium and small-sized backpacks are permitted, but must be screened by metal detectors. Bags will be opened and visually inspected by security. Due to new security measures it is necessary to arrive at least 30 minutes before collecting your reservation at the ticket counter. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your water bottle where you can fill it with water.

Palatine Hill
Via di San Gregorio, 30
00184, Roma, RM, Italy

Admission Fee: 12 Euros per adult, children under the age of 17 are free; The Admission Fee includes entrance into the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.
Hours: Open daily from 8:30AM to 3:30PM (closed January 1^st and December 25^th) The ticket counter closes one hour before closing time. Confirm with the Colosseum’s website: https://www.romaexperience.com/palatine-hill/
Amenities: audio headsets, tour guides (additional charge), bookstore
Audio Guides and Guided Tours: Audio guides are available for a nominal fee.
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours total
Tips for Your Visit: The Colosseum is the most visited attraction in Rome. Your ticket also includes entrance into the Palatine Hill, located next door. For security reasons, it is strictly forbidden to enter the attraction with backpacks, camping equipment, bulky bags, luggage or trolley. Medium and small-sized backpacks are permitted, but must be screened by metal detectors. Bags will be opened and visually inspected by security. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your water bottle to refill at the drinking fountains and think about bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds.

Hop On/Hop Off Bus

Where to Stay:

Courtyard Rome Central Park
Via Giuseppe Mosacti 7
Rome 01168 Italy
Telephone: +39 06 355741

Where to Eat:

Antico Caffe del Teatro di Marcelo
Via del Teatro de Marcelo, 42 00186
Rome, Italy
Telephone: +39 06 678 5451

I ordered a margarita panini and it was fabulous! Check out their facebook page!

What to Eat:

Artichokes: steamed or fried
Cacio e Pepe: Cacio is a type of cheese from Rome’s countryside made from sheep’s milk. The dish is served over pasta and seasoned by black pepper.
Carbonara: creamy white pasta served with pancetta and noodles
Gelato: You have not had gelato until you have had it in Rome!
Maritozzi is a popular breakfast pastry with chocolate chips served with espresso. Some maritozzi are filled with cream as well.
Pecorino Romano cheese
Pizza al Taglio is Rome’s answer to pizza with red sauce, meats, vegetables and cheeses. I also love the Italian margarita pizza with red sauce, mozzarella cheese and topped with basil.
Porcetta: Pork wrapped around herbs and roasted on a spit
Saltimbocca is a dish made with veal and sage wrapped in prosciutto, cooked in white wine and butter.
Suppli is considered an Italian snack made of rice and meat with tomato sauce and filled with mozzarella cheese and then deep-fried. It reminds me of arancini in the US.

Where to Drink:

Il Goccetto (for wine)
Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 14
00186, Roma RM, Italy
Telephone: +39 06 9944 8583

Terrazza Borromini
Via di Santa Maria dell’Anima, 30A
00186 Roma RM, Italy
Telephone: +39 06 6821 5459

While the drinks are pricey, it will be worth the cost for the fabulous views.

What to Read:

Imperium, by Robert Harris
Roma, by Steven Saylor
SPQR, by Mary Beard
The Twelve Caesars, by Robert Grave

Photo Guide for Rome:

Campo de’ Fiori for photos of the market
The Colosseum
Monti for upscale boutiques, restaurants and vintage stores
The Pincio Terrace overlooking Piazza del Popolo in northern Rome
The top of St. Peter’s Basilica
Trastevere neighborhood for scenic alleyways, artisan workshops, the piazza at sunset, and tiny boutiques. Find the corner of Vicolo delle Torro off of Via della Lungaretta for photo-worthy pics.
Trevi Fountain

Topkapi Palace: The Luxurious Lives of the Sultans

3 April 20233 May 2025

Once the center of the Roman Empire, Istanbul is the only country that occupies two continents, Europe and Asia, divided by the Bosphorus River. Originally named after Emperor Constantine, this multicultural city is packed with historical attractions and interesting architecture. Surrounding the Hippodrome are the city’s top places of interest which includes the Topkapi Palace.

After Rome’s fall to the Ottoman Empire, the Sultans converted Christian churches into Islamic mosques and built a palace in the center of the city. Surrounded by the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, once the home of the Sultans, is open for visitors to give insight into the luxurious and private lives of Istanbul’s former rulers.

For over 400 years, the Sultans lived in the Palace until moving into the Dolmabahce Palace in the Besiktas district of Istanbul. By 1909, this palatial estate was completely abandoned and later restored to become a museum in 1924.

As we entered the Topkapi Palace through the Imperial Gate, we approached the Ahmet III fountain. This beautiful water feature is decorated with locally-made tiles, extravagant mosaics and Islamic calligraphy writing.

The Topkapi Palace and gardens are located near the Palace district of Istanbul and the views of the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn are breathtaking.

The courtyard inside of the Imperial Gate is expansive and was designated an area of green space reserved for public officials and civil servants. Also known as the “Courtyard of the Janissaries” the open grounds were congregating spaces for the royal soldiers. These soldiers, elaborately decorated in scarlet, were known for their unique style of music. Their compositions were said to have influenced European classical musicians such as Beethoven and Mozart.

Passing through the first courtyard, our guide pointed out a terra cotta building on the compound which was identified as the only Christian church on the property, the Hagia Irene. The original church was thought to have been built by Roman Emperor, Constantine. It is only one of few Christian churches that has not been converted into a Muslim mosque.

Visitors entering the palace would be required to pass through the Gate of Salutations. Also known as the Middle Gate, this imposing structure was built when the palace was first established in the 15^th century. Resembling a medieval fortress gate, the towers on each side housed the Head Gatekeeper who guarded the entrance. Above the door is an Arabic inscription from the Koran. Everyone, with the exception of the Sultan, would be required to dismount their horse before entering this gate.

Above the entrance to The Gate of Salutations is the imperial signature (tugra) of Sultan Mahmut II and a passage from the Koran written in Arabic calligraphy. The Turkish flag has been raised in the center above the entranceway, leading to the Second Court where the palace museum is located.

A large tower to the right is the Divan Tower, which was once the most important center of government in Europe. Across from the Divan Tower is the Imperial Harem Entrance, which was the quarters for the sultan’s mother, his wives and concubines as well as his children and servants. Four hundred rooms make up the harem, which requires an additional fee to enter. Approximately twenty of these rooms are available to tour.

The Divan Tower is exquisitely designed with colorful tiles and features accented in gold overlay. There were many meeting rooms, but one of the most important spaces was that of the Grand Vizier, the prime minister. The Sultan was known to eavesdrop on the meetings of the Grand Vizier through a window with a metal grill, known as the “Eye”.

Along the perimeter of the courtyard is the kitchen. Noticeable by its tall chimneys, this building is located in the Second Courtyard on the right, facing the Gate of Felicity. The kitchen offers three different exhibits: the Chinese Porcelain Collection, the Dessert Kitchen as well as the kitchen Dormitory which houses the silverware and the European porcelain. We were offered the opportunity to explore the three sections of the kitchen which included the location where the food was cooked, the halva kitchen and the dormitories which housed the cooking staff.

The Gate of Felicity, also known as the “Gate of the White Eunuchs”, provided entrance into the third courtyard, which was the residential areas of the palace. Entrance through the Felicity Gate required the permission of the Sultan. If he was not residing at the palace, this area was off limits.

The third courtyard is surrounded by the treasury that displays some of the most amazing riches from the Sultan’s collection. The first room showcases the imperial thrones and the divans. The second room contains jade objects and jewels. The third room houses treasures from the 16^th century, and the 19^th century candlesticks which adorned the tomb of the Prophet Mohammed. The fourth room is probably the most interesting with its Emerald Dagger and the 86-carat pearl-shaped diamond.

In the Fourth Court is located the Room of Circumcision.

A nearby café sells Turkish coffee and the popular Apple Tea while providing gorgeous views of the Bosphorus River.

The Baghdad Pavilion was built to commemorate the conquest of Murad IV in 1636. Made of marble, colorful tiles and intricate inlay, the inside of this kiosk is an example of an ideal Ottoman space and classical palace architecture.

The Topkapi compound is an overwhelming system of open courtyards and hundreds of rooms and chambers. With only limited time to explore the Palace, it would take hours to fully experience the beauty and culture of this amazing museum. It was my first opportunity to explore the architecture of the Ottoman Empire and I am beyond ecstatic to see more examples of Turkish design.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul? What did you find most fascinating? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my experience at the Topkapi Palace! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Topkapi Palace
Cankurtaran Mh.,
34122, Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 512 04 80

Admission Fee: The museum ticket is 60 Turkish Lira. There is an additional fee in the amount of 35 Turkish Lira to visit the harem and 30 Turkish Lira for the Hagia Irene.
Hours: The museum, harem and Hagia Irene is open from 9AM to 4:45 PM and the last entrance to the museum is 4:00PM between October 30 – April 15. The museum, harem and Hagia Irene is open from 9AM to 6:45PM and the last entrance to the museum is at 6PM between April 15 – October 30. Note that the hours of operation may change during religious holidays.
Amenities: Museum, café, restaurant, audio guide for rent, bookstore
Scenic View: The restaurant has spectacular views of the Bosporus River
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Photographs inside of the exhibition halls are not permitted. Strollers are also not permitted into the museum sections. Appropriate dress is required for the Sacred Relics Department: no shorts, mini-skirts, tank tops or strapless clothing.

Where to Stay:

Fer Hotel
Mollafenari Mahallesi
Turbedar Sk. No. 12
34120 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 522 50 80

Where to Eat:

Cozy Pub & Restaurant
Alemdar Mh., Divan Yolu Cd. No. 60
34110 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 520 09 90

We loved sitting in the alleyway at red and white checked clothed tables. We ordered Efes beer and appetizers which included hummus, tzatziki sauce, pita bread and spring rolls. Ask your server to let you go up the small elevator for an amazing view of the Blue Mosque!

What to Eat:

Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
Gozleme is a type of bread that is shaped in a square and stuffed with various fillings such as meat, cheese, potatoes or vegetables and then cooked over a griddle. The cheese and spinach reminds me of spanikopita.
Iskender Kebab: thinly sliced lamb is smothered in tomato sauce and served with traditional bread, then topped with yogurt and butter.
Mezze is a sample of several small bites that may include yogurt with herbs, hummus, olives, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), meatballs, eggplant, white cheese and warm bread.
Simit is a fun street food bread that is similar to a pretzel.
Turkish Apple Tea is absolutely amazing and was one of my favorite drinks while visiting Turkey.
Turkish Delight: a delicious dessert is made up of dates, pistachios, hazelnuts, which is pink in color.
Turkish Ice Cream, also known as Dondurma, is a little thicker in consistency, but it will not melt. A must try.
Turkish Pizza is outstanding and tastes so fresh. Made from Turkish Pide (a type of pastry), it is similar to a flatbread with a variety of toppings.
Turkish Ravioli: dumplings stuffed with beef or lamb served with yogurt.

What to Read:

Istanbul: Memories of a City, by Orhan Pamuk
The Bastard of Istanbul, by Elif Shahak
My Name is Red, by Orhan Pamuk
Istanbul Passage, by Joseph Kanon

Photo Guide for Istanbul:

Galata Tower for views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus River
The Blue Mosque for its amazing blue tiles
The Rainbow Stairs at Sali Pazari Yokusu
The Rooftop Terrace of Seven Hills Hotel for views of the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace AND the Hagia Sophia
Rooftop Terrace of Cozy’s Restaurant for views of the Blue Mosque
Inside the Hagia Sophia in the afternoon when the light shines in from the windows
The Grand Bazaar
Balat for colorful structures in the former Jewish neighborhood

For more information about the beautiful, exotic country of Turkey, check out the following links!

The Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia
Spice Bazaar and Hippodrome
Ephesus, Turkey: A Journey Back in Time
A Turkish Carpet Demonstration
Kusadasi and its Symbol of Peace
The Theater of Miletus
The Baths of Miletus

A Gate in the Topkapi Palace

A Beautiful Courtyard at the Topkapi Palace

The Beautiful Architecture of The Divan

The Ornate Interior of the Divan

Seeking Holy Wisdom in Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia

27 March 202325 May 2025

My first visit to Istanbul was on a summer girl’s trip. Our plans were to start out in Istanbul, Turkey, explore the beautiful coast and sail to a few of the nearby Greek islands. With only a couple of days in the capitol city, I was disappointed that we had such little time to visit more of Istanbul’s historical sites. I remember how fascinated I was to see the mosques, the Hippodrome and the Bosporus River all the while watching the city celebrate the Ramadan holiday.

A couple of years later, I returned to Istanbul on a Footsteps of Paul cruise and I was thrilled to be back for two full days in the city. Happy to visit the Blue Mosque and the Spice Market, our first stop was the Hagia Sophia.

The Hagia Sophia (eye-ah soh-fee-yah) has been described as one of the greatest sites of worship for both Christians and Muslims. Initially built by Emperor Constantine in 537AD as a Christian church, the site was later converted into a mosque when Islam became the country’s central religion. I imagine all of the thousands of Christians arriving to the Hagia Sophia to worship in such a beautiful place. Considered one of Istanbul’s most impressive attractions, nearly three and a half million guests visit this historical site which is now an educational museum.

Upon entering, all guests are required to remove their shoes and the women must cover their hair. We approached the Hagia Sophia through the vestibule on the western side where we were then led into the open expanse of the former church. The central bronze doors were brought to the site from an ancient temple in Antioch. Known as the Emperor’s entrance on special occasions, the spectacular mosaics decorated the transom dating over 1500 years to the time of Justinian.

Measuring nearly 250 feet long, 230 feet wide and towering 90 feet high, this space is exceptionally large. Its architecture is influenced by both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. An outer narthex leads into the inner narthex (a porch area of the church) and finally reaches the nave in the center, where the congregation would have met.

The half domes display colorful mosaics of Mary holding the infant Jesus which were later concealed when the church became a mosque. Once the facility became a museum, the images were discovered during a restoration project and ongoing renovations continue to uncover extraordinary artwork.

The impressive dome is held up by its walls and arches that strategically distribute the weight of the dome to create a pendentive. Reaching a height of 185 feet and measuring 100 feet across in diameter, there are 40 ribs made from bricks of clay imported from the Greek island of Rhodes.

When the Hagia Sophia was built, it was constructed with the finest materials that were imported from all over the ancient world. The large green column was removed from the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus as a spoil of conquest (spolia). The two alabaster urns are from the Hellenistic Era of Pergamon and the purple columns behind each urn are older than the Hagia Sophia itself.

The panel on the walls and the inlay on the floor are a collection of purple porphery from Egypt, green stone from Thessaly, black stone from the Bosporus, yellow stone from Syria, white stone from Cappadoccia and golden stone from Libya. The green marble circle, called the Omphalion, was the spot where the emperors were crowned.

Within the Hagia Sophia are a few Muslim elements that remain on display. The mirhab, known as the prayer niche, oriented the Muslim’s direction so that he could position himself to pray towards Mecca.

The Mimbar (meem-behr) is the raised pulpit in a mosque where the imam would stand halfway up the stairs to deliver his sermon.

The upper galleries with their arched open spaces are accessible by a ramp near the Narthax. This second level was designated for women who came to the mosque to worship and we learned from our guide that there are beautiful mosaics on display.

When the church became a mosque, many of the mosaics and frescoes depicting people were covered as required by the Islam religion. While the building was undergoing restoration, seraphims in the upper corners were recently unveiled. It was estimated that they had been painted in the 14^th century AD.

There are a total of eight medallions suspended from the arches overheard. The Arabic writing documents the names of leading Muslim figures, as images of people were forbidden to be displayed in a mosque.

As I exited the Hagia Sophia, I noticed the reflection of the Donation Mosaic in the mirror above. The mosaic is on the opposite side of the wall where Mary is holding Jesus in her lap. Jesus makes the sign of the trinity with his three fingers of his right hand and holds the Gospels of the Bible in his right hand. Two men stand beside the Virgin Mary and Jesus, with arms outstretched offering them gifts. On the right is Constantine presenting them a model of the city of Constantinople and on the left is Justinian gifting them the Hagia Sophia, Our guide pointed out that the Hagia Sophia was painted as it would have looked when it was a church without the minorets and a cross at the top of its dome. This 11^th century mosaic dates back to the reign of Basil II, an emperor of the Byzantine Empire.

What amazed me about the Hagia Sophia was seeing the combination of Christianity and Islam in one location. I was also intrigued by the recent findings and the uncovering of Christian artwork that had been hidden for so many years. Researchers are optimistic that they may find more of these extraordinary treasures and It will be interesting to learn what they will discover.

What was your experience like at the Hagia Sophia? What were some of the aspects of the museum that interested you? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Hagia Sophia
Sultan Ahmet Mahallesi
Ayasofya Meydani
34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 522 17 50

Admission Fee: 60 Turkish Lira
Hours: The museum is open April 15 – October 31 from 9AM to 7PM, with the last entry at 6PM; November 1 – April 15 from 9AM to 5PM, with the last entry at 4PM. They are closed on Mondays. Last tickets are sold an hour before closing.
Amenities: Audio guide (30 TL) can be accessed at the museum’s entrance provided in the following languages: Turkish, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Arabic, Japanese, Persian, Greek, Russian and Korean
Scenic View: Splendid views of the museum from the upstairs gallery
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The Hagia Sophia is located in the Sultanahmet District across from the Blue Mosque. Arrive early in the day as crowds to purchase tickets can be long. Dress appropriately as you may be turned away for not covering your knees and shoulders. In addition, there are several ways to purchase tickets ahead of time, which will allow you to skip the ticket queue. According to tradition, if you “turn your thumb” in the historical pillar, all of your wishes will be granted. Gil is the name of the resident cat who lives within the museum. Private tours can also be purchased at the door. Don’t forget to visit the upstairs gallery for additional displays.

Where to Stay:

Fer Hotel
Mollafenari Mahallesi
Turbedar Sk. No. 12
34120 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 522 50 80

Where to Eat:

Cozy Pub & Restaurant
Alemdar Mh., Divan Yolu Cd. No. 60
34110 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Telephone: +90 212 520 09 90

What to Eat:

Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
Gozleme is a type of bread that is shaped in a square and stuffed with various fillings such as meat, cheese, potatoes or vegetables and then cooked over a griddle. The cheese and spinach reminds me of spanikopita.
Iskender Kebab: thinly sliced lamb is smothered in tomato sauce and served with traditional bread, then topped with yogurt and butter.
Mezze is a sample of several small bites that may include yogurt with herbs, hummus, olives, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), meatballs, eggplant, white cheese and warm bread.
Simit is a fun street food bread that is similar to a pretzel.
Tarihi Osmanli Macunu (Traditional Ottoman Candy): Made of five different flavors of thick taffy spiraled deftly around a stick and then sprinkled with fresh lemon juice, creating a delicious and savory lollipop.
Turkish Apple Tea is absolutely amazing and was one of my favorite drinks while visiting Turkey.
Turkish Delight: a delicious dessert is made up of dates, pistachios, hazelnuts, which is pink in color.
Turkish Ice Cream, also known as Dondurma, is a little thicker in consistency, but it will not melt. A must try.
Turkish Pizza is outstanding and tastes so fresh. Made from Turkish Pide (a type of pastry), it is similar to a flatbread with a variety of toppings.
Turkish Ravioli: dumplings stuffed with beef or lamb served with yogurt.

What to Read:

Istanbul: Memories of a City, by Orhan Pamuk
The Bastard of Istanbul, by Elif Shahak
My Name is Red, by Orhan Pamuk
Istanbul Passage, by Joseph Kanon

Photo Guide for Istanbul:

Galata Tower for views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus River
The Blue Mosque for its amazing blue tiles
The Rainbow Stairs at Sali Pazari Yokusu
The Rooftop Terrace of Seven Hills Hotel for views of the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace AND the Hagia Sophia
Rooftop Terrace of Cozy’s Restaurant for views of the Blue Mosque
Inside the Hagia Sophia in the afternoon when the light shines in from the windows
The Grand Bazaar
Balat for colorful structures in the former Jewish neighborhood

For more information about the beautiful, exotic country of Turkey, check out the following links!

Topkapki Palace
The Blue Mosque
Spice Bazaar and Hippodrome
Ephesus, Turkey: A Journey Back in Time
A Turkish Carpet Demonstration
Kusadasi and its Symbol of Peace
The Theater of Miletus
The Baths of Miletus

A Seraphim that was uncovered in 2010

The Dome, the Seraphim, the Medallions and the Scaffolding