The official opening of the Istanbul conference will start with an optional cultural tour of the historical areas of the city and a cruise on the Bosphorous Strait. Enjoy this great opportunity to discover the history of the former center of the Ottoman Empire!
Marvel at the Hagia (St.) Sophia, one of the great achievements of ancient architecture. Constructed as a basilica in the 6th century, it was the largest cathedral in the world for nearly one thousand years. The patriarchal basilica of Constantinople was converted into a mosque in 1453 and is an impressive museum today.
Drink in the majesty of the Blue Mosque, famous for its beautiful tiles and towering six minarets. It is the last great imperial mosque of the classical period. The name comes from 20,000 awe-inspiring blue-toned Iznik tiles decorating its interior walls.
See the ruins of the famous Hippodrome, once the center of chariot races, athletic events, and political activities. Don’t miss the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain.
Be overwhelmed when you enter Kapalıçarşı, the Grand Bazaar. Built in the 15th century, its more than 60 streets and 4,000 shops lie beneath high tile-decorated domes. Discover authentic oriental gifts of all kinds, including leather clothing, rugs, kilims, antiques, jewelry, and hand-woven fabrics. The money traders are also a must-see. Millions of dollars in different currencies are exchanged with dealers yelling over their cell phones on a small side street. In fact, the Central Bank of Turkey is said to establish the daily exchange rate based upon traders in the Grand Bazaar.
Experience Topkapı Palace, the extraordinary residence of the Ottoman Sultans and the center of Ottoman power for nearly 400 years. It is an impressive example of Ottoman architecture, with rich collections of porcelains, weapons, shields, armors, robes, Islamic calligraphic manuscripts, and Ottoman treasures and jewelry.
Relax and sip Turkish tea as you cruise on the Bosphorous Strait. See both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul with a unique view from the water. The Bosphorous cruise passes by Ottoman, Dolmabahçe, and Beylerbeyi palaces, ancient wooden houses, and modern villas that open to the Black Sea.
Wednesday 28 March—09h00-1700. $95.00 ($105.00 after 31 January), lunch not included.
To register for the conference along with the tour, click HERE.
You may also contact the IAES offices at iaes@iaes.org.