Turkiye 2013 day 3 in Istanbul

The third day in Istanbul dawned bright and sunny, as all of them were. We actually experienced a phenomenal weather, mostly sunny and pleasant, not too hot, not too cold, no rain. My forever image of the Middle East in general is being the land of perfect weather. LOL

After a breakfast on the terrace of the hotel—a place with phenomenal views to start with—our group visited the famed Topkapi Palace. What can I say about the size and beauty and magnificent and history? We entered through the Imperial Gate into the first courtyard and then on. The main highlights are the relics (both Christian and Islamic), the Imperial Council Chamber, the Imperial Treasury (yeah!), and, of course, the Harem and associated buildings. The place is astonishing, full of beauty and history and human foibles, triumphs and pain as well. As all places in Turkiye, I cannot recommend it highly enough for a visit.

We took a break at a restaurant on the palace grounds, with accompanying photos, naturally. J I got to drink rose water and felt very special and decadent.

After lunch, we visited the Archeological Museum in Istanbul. There are thousands of various Hittite and other artifacts, Byzantine, from other periods as well. I was particularly fascinated by the Babylonian lions and gazelles from the procession street. They are made out of glazed bricks and date to the Nabuchadnezzar era. For some reason, that seems older than many of the other artifacts, in terms of completeness and workmanship, as well as the exciting historical period of the mystical Babylonia. This really brings home the history and cultural significance of the region and highlight the exquisite works of arts several thousand years old. I also took photos of various sarcophagi and other artifacts. Another fascinating place is that of Sidon, historical town that I was not familiar with before. This is a place that I could spend hours at, love museums and actually could spend days there. J

There are four photos of two boys beautifully dressed as sultans. According to the explanation given, this is the happy occasion for the boys before their circumcision. With local anesthesia. I think this might be the only instance where I actually feel sympathy. JJ