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Free booking and cancellationFree payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free
Byzantine Treasures in Islamic Splendor: Discovering Istanbul's Converted Mosques
Hello, I'm Mertcan, a licensed and independent tourist guide from Istanbul. My passion for traveling and exploring new cities has taken me to many different places, but there's nothing quite like guiding tours in my home city of Istanbul. When I guide tours, I take great care to make them as engaging and informative as possible. I understand that visitors to Istanbul may have limited time to see everything, which is why I keep my tours short and packed with interesting information. I focus on the main points of the city's history and culture, giving visitors the chance to explore further on their own if they wish. I limit my tours to 12 people in order to ensure I can attend to each person individually. As a guide, I strive to create a personalized experience for each of my visitors. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family with kids, or a group of friends, I will tailor my tours to suit your needs and interests. I'm also happy to share insider tips and recommendations for other places to visit or things to do in Istanbul, so you can make the most of your time in this incredible city. So if you're looking for a knowledgeable and friendly guide to show you around Istanbul, look no further than me. Join me on a journey through the city's rich history and vibrant culture, and let's create unforgettable memories together :)
Tour description
Walk with me through the Byzantine past of the city and discover the old churches of Constantinople!
The Byzantine history of Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, is a topic that is often given limited attention, despite its significant influence and enduring impact on the city's development.
In this tour, I take you through a number of the most prominent religious buildings that stand as living testaments to the glorious Byzantine era. All of them (except one) are converted into mosques and now serve as mosques.
With every mosque we encounter, we'll witness the vibrant mosaic of cultures that now thrive within their walls. These sacred spaces have embraced a new identity, weaving together Byzantine heritage and Islamic traditions in a harmonious dance of spirituality.
So, join me on this remarkable odyssey, as we embark on a journey to rediscover the soul of Istanbul. Let the echoes of the past guide our steps, as we immerse ourselves in the extraordinary stories hidden within these resplendent converted mosques.
What will we visit on this tour?
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Meeting point:Beyazıt, Ordu Cad., 34134 Fatih/İstan...Beyazıt, Ordu Cad., 34134 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
In front of the Istanbul University's gate, I will be holding my purple umbrella.
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1Outside visitBeyazıt Square / Istanbul University Main Gate
We meet at the historical main gate of Istanbul University at Beyazıt Square (Beyazıt Meydanı).
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2Free admissionThe Church of Theotokos Kyriotissa (Kalenderhane Mosque)
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3Free admissionThe Church of St. Theodoros (Molla Gürani Mosque)
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4Free admissionThe Monastery of The Pantokrator (Zeyrek Mosque)
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5Free admissionThe Church of Aya Theodosia (Gül Camii)
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6Outside visitThe Greek Orthodox Patriarchate
How much does this tour cost?
Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).