Chora Church, now known as Kariye Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most extraordinary monuments, celebrated for its late Byzantine mosaics and frescoes—often considered second only to those of Hagia Sophia. Located near the Theodosian Walls, this compact yet profoundly rich complex captures Constantinople at its artistic and spiritual peak. What makes Chora exceptional is not … [Read more...] about Chora Church (Kariye Mosque) Price & Hours | 2026 Update
MUSEUMS
HAREM (Topkapi Palace) Fee & Hours [Updated → 2025]
Harem Rooms are the most interesting part of Topkapi Palace. The Harem, described by 19th century orientalist painters, looked like a place where women danced all day. However, in reality, Harem was also a school where women from many different parts of the world were educated. The greatest authority in the Harem was the "Mother of the Sultan". The Sultan's mother was known … [Read more...] about HAREM (Topkapi Palace) Fee & Hours [Updated → 2025]
Basilica Cistern Ticket Price & Visiting Hours (2026 Update)
Beneath the busy streets of Istanbul lies the Basilica Cistern, a vast underground reservoir built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian. At first glance, it feels less like infrastructure and more like a hidden palace — a forest of columns rising from the water in carefully measured symmetry. For those of us who explore Istanbul through its Byzantine … [Read more...] about Basilica Cistern Ticket Price & Visiting Hours (2026 Update)
