Day 26 – Tiles, tiles and more tiles

Istanbul, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar

Friday, 11 October 2013

Today we set off early to beat the crowds at the Topkapi Palace and were first in line when they opened at 9am.

Decided to only visit the harem which is a huge complex in itself with beautiful Iznik tiles. It was great to have this almost to ourselves as we were so early.

 

But concentrating on tiles is a tiring business so a reviving stop was needed at one of the Palace cafes with the best views of the harbour for coffee, baclava and borek. Decided that I’ve been overrating Turkish borek as it’s mostly pastry with very little filling.

Then some browsing at the many museum shops around the complex before proceeding to the National Archaeological museum. Unfortunately there was a lot of construction work going on so many areas were closed. However we saw an excellent sarcophagus collection (if you are into sarcophaguses) with the prized Alexander sarcophagus from Sidon.

We also saw a display of archeology from Troy through the ages which would be great for school groups.

In the Asian section were parts of the Ishtar Gate but not as much as in the British Museum.

 

Then an excellent Iznik ceramic collection which I could photograph.

Lunch stop at Madrasa cafe for yoghurt soup with bread and tea. Soup was a little sour but wholesome with fresh bread.

Then to the bazaars.

 

We preferred the Spice Bazaar to the Grand Bazaar as it’s much smaller and less intimidating. We particularly liked the food sections with their noise and aromas where vendors competed, hawking their wares. There were lots of different cheeses including a stringy cheese which tasted delicious and of course lots of varieties of Turkish delight and dried fruits and nuts.

Our Istanbul card got a workout but we still did lots of walking.

Back to our apartment for a rest and shower before heading out along the pedestrian street for dinner at the bustling Konak Kepab. Up to the 3rd floor where we sat at a glass topped, brocade covered table set with paper serviettes. We chose from an extensive menu and had a free appetiser of freshly baked bread and special tomato and cheese. It’s a meat lovers delight with constant flow of customers and wait staff.

 

 

Walked home as leisurely as you can with the constant stream of people and bought some baclava for breakfast.

 

 

 

---

Sent from my iPad by My Vacation HD app (www.myvacationapp.com)