This is the little street in Sultanhamet where we stayed, hotels, hostels and restaurants line the street on both sides.

Day 1 itinerary consisted of a visit to the ‘Blue Mosque’, the Basilica Cistern and a walk around the park to see the Topaki Palace.

The Basilica Cistern was a fascinating Roman structure built entirley underground for the purpose of holding 100,000 tons of water for supplying the Grand Palace

The reservoir was fed from a river supply 19 kms away.

All the columns are identical with the exception of two which have Medusa heads placed as a foundation. One of the heads is placed sideways and the other upside down. There are lots of theory’s about why but I like Mark’s one that ‘it is to make sure she keeps her chin up’ !

The park was lovely, lots of green, beautiful rose gardens in bloom, and a great view overlooking the Bosphorus river.

The city was very busy and bustling with tourists, can you spot me in front of the palace entrance ?

Finally Lunch in one of the many pretty pavement cafes