Istanbul - Kandilli Observatory, Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern, 3/30/2006

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Most viewed - Istanbul - Kandilli Observatory, Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern, 3/30/2006

Path of Totality754 viewsThis large map shows the path of totality of the 2006 eclipse across Turkey. Istanbul was not in the path, so the observatory saw only a partial eclipse.

Blue Mosque - Fountain and Minaret726 viewsOne of the six minarets of the Blue Mosque towers over the fountain in the forecourt of the Mosque.

Monumental Gate724 viewsThe main gate to the courtyard of the Blue Mosque is described as "monumental but narrow."

Entrance to the Blue Mosque721 viewsAdmission to the Blue Mosque is obtained through the forecourt, which itself is entered via this imposing gateway.

Royal Loge717 viewsThe retiring rooms of the Royal Loge were the headquarters of the Grand Vizier during the suppression of the Janissary Corps in 1826.

Tiles706 viewsThe interior of the Blue Mosque is lined with over ceramic 20,000 tiles. These were made in Iznik, the former Nicaea, which was a major center for the production of fine tiles.

First Glimpse of Hagia Sophia692 viewsMarvin and Attila contemplate Hagia Sophia through the frame of a gateway to the forecourt of the Blue Mosque.

Etiquette692 viewsVisitors are required to remove their shoes and carry them in a bag provided free of charge. Both men and women are expected to dress modestly (no short pants or skirts), and head coverings for women are mandatory.

Richmond Hotel Lobby692 viewsLocated on Istiklal Street in the Beyoĝlu district of Istanbul, the Richmond was well-placed to optimize our navigation of the city.

Kandilli Observatory Telescope687 viewsThis venerable 200 mm Zeiss refractor was located in the dome atop the Observatory. It was purchased in 1918, delivered in 1924, and became operational in 1935 with the completion of the observatory building.

Entertainment Value685 viewsThe Basilica Cistern has been featured in a number of movies, including the James Bond thriller From Russia With Love, in which Bond took advantage of its location under the Soviet Consulate to get access to a cryptographic machine. In reality, the Consulate is nowhere near the Cistern.

Basilica Cistern680 viewsThis huge underground cistern was built in the reign of Justinian (527-565 AD) to provide a filtered water supply for the Imperial Palace and surrounding area.

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