The Best Ways to Experience Istanbul's History and Culture with VNG Property

Istanbul is a city with a rich history and culture, spanning over two millennia. From the Roman and Byzantine Empires to the Ottoman era, the city has seen many different rulers and civilizations leave their mark. For guests staying with VNG Property in Istanbul, there are many ways to experience the city's history and culture. In this blog post, we will provide some ideas for cultural experiences and historical landmarks to visit, including lesser-known sites that are off the beaten path.

Hagia Sophia

A visit to Istanbul is not complete without seeing the Hagia Sophia, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Originally built as a Christian church by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, the Hagia Sophia later became a mosque during the Ottoman era, and today it is a museum. Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate mosaics that tell the story of the building's long and storied history.

Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years and is now a museum that houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Ottoman era. Guests can tour the palace's many rooms and halls, including the harem, where the sultan's wives and concubines lived.

Basilica Cistern

Located just a few steps away from the Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern is an underground water reservoir that dates back to the 6th century. Visitors can walk through the dimly lit corridors and admire the giant pillars that hold up the ceiling. The cistern was used in the filming of the James Bond movie "From Russia with Love" and has been the inspiration for many works of literature and art.

Chora Church

The Chora Church is one of Istanbul's hidden gems, located in the Edirnekapı neighborhood. The church dates back to the 4th century, but the current structure was built in the 14th century. Visitors can admire the stunning frescoes and mosaics that cover the walls and ceilings, depicting scenes from the life of Jesus and the Virgin Mary.

Istanbul Archaeological Museums

The Istanbul Archaeological Museums are a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Istanbul and the surrounding area. The museum complex consists of three separate buildings, housing a vast collection of artifacts from the Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman eras. Visitors can see everything from ancient coins and pottery to sarcophagi and statues.

Spice Bazaar

For a taste of Istanbul's vibrant culture, guests can visit the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. Located in the Eminönü neighborhood, the bazaar is a colorful maze of stalls selling spices, sweets, and other Turkish delicacies. Visitors can sample the many different flavors and scents and buy some souvenirs to take home.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a city with a rich history and culture that is just waiting to be explored. Guests staying with VNG Property in Istanbul have many opportunities to experience the city's past and present, from visiting iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to exploring hidden gems like the Chora Church and Spice Bazaar. With so much to see and do, guests are sure to have an unforgettable stay in this vibrant and dynamic city