Day 5: A Familiar Chill

Weather Update: Sunny Periods, Snow. High -2°C

Elevation Above Sea Level: 40 Metres

The morning greeted me with a sense of déjà vu, as snow began to fall softly just as I sat down for breakfast. However, the weather couldn’t keep me inside for long. By 10 AM, the sky had cleared enough, and I ventured out to explore Istanbul once again.

Exploring the Majestic Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque)

My first stop was the iconic Sultanahmet Mosque, better known as the Blue Mosque. Unlike the Hagia Sophia, which has an entrance fee, the Blue Mosque welcomed visitors free of charge. Standing before it, I couldn’t help but be in awe of its grandeur. The mosque’s design is breathtaking, with sweeping curves created by an ascending system of domes and semi-domes. The central courtyard is vast—almost as large as the mosque itself—and surrounded by towering columns. Six minarets, the most of any mosque in Istanbul, create a striking silhouette, especially when the mosque is lit up after dusk.

However, despite its majestic exterior, the interior felt surprisingly understated when compared to the Hagia Sophia. The central dome, which spans 23.5 meters in diameter and rises 43 meters high, is impressive in its own right. Yet, the architect opted for four massive supporting pillars, nicknamed "elephant feet," which provide stability, unlike the Hagia Sophia’s seemingly unsupported dome. What truly captivates visitors, however, are the 20,000 handmade Iznik ceramic tiles adorning the mosque's walls, each one bearing a unique tulip design. These tiles give the mosque its distinctive "blue" appearance, and the variety of designs—from traditional patterns on the lower level to vibrant depictions of flowers, fruits, and cypresses in the gallery—adds an extra layer of beauty.

Intriguing Details and Stories of the Blue Mosque

The mosque’s interior is also lit by more than 200 stained glass windows, as well as several chandeliers. Fun fact: ostrich eggs are placed on these chandeliers to ward off spiders and prevent cobwebs from accumulating! The floors are covered with carpets, generously donated by the faithful, and are regularly replaced when worn out.

A Quick Visit to the Basilica Cistern

Next, I decided to check out the Basilica Cistern, which had an entrance fee of 900 TL (around $40 USD). I had planned to skip it if there was a long line, but to my surprise, the place was not crowded. So, I purchased a ticket and descended into the depths of this underground wonder.

The Mystical Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern, or Yerebatan Sarnıcı, is one of many ancient cisterns hidden beneath the streets of Istanbul. Built in the 6th century under the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, this subterranean water reservoir once served the vast city of Constantinople. It earned its name because it sits beneath the ruins of a great basilica, constructed between the 3rd and 4th centuries. After a fire in 476, the basilica was reconstructed, and in the 6th century, it was transformed into a cistern.

Today, the cistern is largely dry, but it still evokes an eerie sense of history. The space, which once housed a colonnade and gardens, now stands as a monument to Byzantine ingenuity. According to ancient texts, the cistern was enlarged after the Nika Riots of 532, during which much of Constantinople was destroyed. Historians also claim that around 7,000 slaves were involved in the construction of this underground marvel.

Looking Ahead: Next Stop, Cyprus

As I reflect on today’s experiences, tomorrow marks the next chapter of my journey. I’ll be leaving for Cyprus, eager to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of the island. Stay tuned for the adventures ahead!

Final Thoughts

This trip has been a journey of discovery, filled with awe-inspiring landmarks and fascinating historical insights. I look forward to continuing my exploration of this beautiful region and sharing more of my experiences with you.