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Offered languages
- English
Istanbul, Constantinople, Byzantion… This amazing city, founded upon one of the most strategic positions in the world, was the capital of Roman and Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empires from 330 AD to 1453 AD. Even today, we can see many important Roman sites around the city. This route is all about exploring them.
How did the city change from a small Greek colony to a huge Roman imperial capital? How did the Roman city change from a pagan city to a Christian one? How did the Roman heritage survive and change during the time of the Ottomans?
By visiting various architectural sights, it is possible to trace the marks of these transformations. On this route, we will visit various locations in an attempt to understand how the city has changed over time.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Use "T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar Tram Line" and exit at "Sirkeci" station if you are staying in Galata/Pera, Taksim, Sultanahmet or Laleli areas. Use "Marmaray" and exit at "Sirkeci" underground station and follow gate number "1", if you are staying on Asian side. For help, contact with me via Whatsapp.
Itinerary
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1Yedikule (Castle of the Seven Towers)
Once the 'Golden Gate' of the Romans and then the 'Seven Towers' of the Ottomans, it is now one of the city's most interesting historical sites, offering stunning panoramic views of Istanbul.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included -
2Mevlanakapı
Istanbul's Roman-era walls were the largest and most complex urban fortifications of their time. They remain monumental and impressive to this day. We will visit one of the best-preserved examples on our route.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
3Chora Museum
A real gem of Byzantine art, Chora is one of the top sights in Istanbul. Almost completely decorated with mosaics and frescos, Chora will stay in your memory for a long time after your visit.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included -
4Tekfur Sarayi
Once the palace of Roman emperors, the interior of this building has been reconstructed and turned into a museum, but it has preserved its exterior features very well. We will examine the building from the outside, but we can also visit the inside if you prefer.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
5Fatih Mosque and Complex
The mosque built by Sultan Mehmed, who conquered Constantinople and had the title of Caesar of Rome added to his other titles, is among the most important mosques of Istanbul. Sultan's tomb is also located in the courtyard of this mosque. Apart from its impressive architecture and some elements that remain a mystery, we will visit one of Istanbul's must-see spots with its unusual history that connects the building to a Roman and Christian past.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
6Valens Aqueduct (Bozdogan Kemeri)
Once part of the longest Roman water network, the 4th century Aqueduct of Emperor Valens still impresses its visitors with its monumental appearance.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7Zeyrek Mosque
Despite significant damages caused by strong earthquakes and devastating fires, this 12th Century Roman building still preserves a harmonious blend of Byzantine and Ottoman art within its walls. Another impressive panorama of the city is just one of the surprises that is ready to be explored in and around of the Zeyrek Mosque.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The guide will only provide “tourist guidance service” in accordance with the legal guidelines in Türkiye.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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