Cultural Activities in Istanbul

IamIstanbul Editor

Oct 31 611 read

Cultural Activities in Istanbul

A journey to Istanbul would be incomplete without learning about the city's rich history. Istanbul's art and cultural events will provide you with an understanding of the city's history, customs, and artwork. While seeing Istanbul's cultural sites is educational, attending its artistic events will keep you amused. Take a look at this list to have a better understanding of Istanbul, which includes everything from cultural acts to historical sites that provide a window into the past. Include these sites in your Istanbul itinerary for a memorable visit.

Explore Hagia Sophia

Due to its tremendous creative and architectural accomplishments, as well as its rich history, religious significance, and stunning beauty, Hagia Sophia is one of the most visited museums in both Turkey and the rest of the globe. The museum, which originates from the sixth century, is known for its intact mosaics, which include 30 million gold tiles, as well as its sixth-century dome. The Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most beloved attractions and a must-see for culture buffs.

The Blue Mosque

The 17th century Blue Mosque, which faces the Hagia Sophia across a tiny park and mirrors its domed form, is a sight to see. Only a few mosques in the world have six minarets, and the city's landmark is one among them. Aside from its stunning appearance, the mosque's interior is known for its tens of thousands of znik tiles. The interior's overall spatial and color impact elevates the mosque to one of Ottoman architecture's pinnacles. Take a walk through the grounds between the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia, where you can view the dueling domes of the two mosques.

Istanbul's art scene

Over the last decade, Istanbul has established itself as one of the world's leading centers for contemporary art, with hundreds of galleries displaying the work of tens of thousands of skilled artists. Istanbul Modern, Turkey's first modern art museum, is a must-see for cultural buffs, where you can learn about local and international painters, photographers, and innovative videographers from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum not only has a large collection of Turkish art, but it also hosts a rotating program of mixed-media exhibits by well-known local and international artists.

Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern, erected by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, is one of Istanbul's most amazing historical structures. Explore this massive subterranean palace replete with ancient treasures including the Medusa stones in the northwest corner and the Hen's Eye Column, which are known as the Medusa stones because of their Medusa head sculptures. This submerged castle has so much to offer that it has been used to film scenes from Hollywood films! For just 20 Turkish lira, you may visit this mesmerizing monument and experience its magical atmosphere, which is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day.

The Amazing Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace, as the city's icon, is currently Istanbul's most visited museum, with approximately three million visitors each year. The Topkapi Palace Museum is noteworthy not only for its architecture and treasures, but also for the Ottoman Empire's history and culture that it commemorates. The Topkapi Palace, which is made up of beautiful green courtyards and elegant kiosks, has a treasury and breathtaking views of the Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus, and Golden Horn. Topkapi Palace is associated with many fascinating tales and legends, so it's well worth a visit in Istanbul if you're interested in learning more about the city's history and culture.