Byzantine Istanbul

Submitted by Jarek on Wed, 03/21/2018 - 19:29

The map presented in the article shows the location of the Byzantine-era monuments of former Constantinople, now known as Istanbul. By clicking on the marker, you get the name of the monument. Some of these structures are very well known, for example Hagia Sophia or the Basilica Cistern. On the other hand, there are also rather obscure locations where not much is visible for the visitors today. As the map is a work in progress, we would appreciate all the feedback - as we are willing to expand the map or make the necessary corrections. Hopefully, this simple plan will make the exploration of Istanbul much more enjoyable, while hunting for the traces of the Byzantine Empire.

Ayşe Kadın Mosque in Edirne

Submitted by Iza on Wed, 03/14/2018 - 08:47

Ayşe Kadın Mosque is one of these historical mosques in Edirne that are rarely visited by tourists. It was erected between 1468-1469 for Ayşe Kadın. It is believed that the builder responsible for the construction of this mosque was the Ottoman architect Hayrettin. His more famous work in Edirne is Sultan Bayezid II Mosque Complex.

Kilitbahir

Submitted by Iza on Wed, 03/07/2018 - 10:29

Kilitbahir is a small town and fishing harbour in the southern part of Gallipoli Peninsula. Its importance for tourism is due to the presence of the vast Ottoman fortress and the existence of the ferry terminal that enables crossing the Dardanelles to the Asian shore.

February 2018 in Turkish archaeology

Submitted by Iza on Thu, 03/01/2018 - 08:57

The biggest archaeological news in February was the publication from a research team led by volcano biologist Hardy Pfanz explaining how Plutonium in Hierapolis - "Gate to Hell" - killed its victims with a cloud of deadly carbon dioxide. Moreover, the past month fell under the shadow of approaching inundation of Hasankeyf, one of the most fascinating historical sites in Turkey.

Bedesten in Edirne

Submitted by Iza on Wed, 02/21/2018 - 12:47

The Bedesten is the oldest of Edirne historical bazaars as it dates back to 1418. The founder of its construction was Sultan Mehmet I who had it built immediately after the completion of the Old Mosque. The covered market was to serve as a source of income for the mosque as a part of the vakıf - a religious foundation - to provide the upkeep of the mosque and salaries of its staff.