After a restoration period of 2 years the beautiful Museum of Islamic Arts and Crafts has reopened in the Hippdrome. on the edge of the square the museum exhibits valuable Seljuk and Ottoman carpets and other artefacts cover a long period of history from the 7th Century. The one time palace if Ibrahim Pasa who served as Grand Vizier of Suleiman the Magnitificent. He married the Sultans sister, Hatice Sultan and was executed in 1536. The Palace saw many events from revolts, weddings, festivities and celebrations and served as a residence for other Grand Viziers. Even more beautiful after its re opening two months ago it is definitely worth putting on the list of Musuems to visit while in Istanbul.
Last weekend the Vestel 51st Presidential Cycling Tour of Istanbul was held in Turkey with the finish of the 8 day event. The last day Istanbul-Istanbul was 124 km, took place in one of the worlds greats cities and spanned the continents of Asia and Europe crossing the Bosphorus Bridge between these two land masses. Finally ending up in the Hippodrome outside the specatular setting outside Blue Mosque.
The overall winner was Kristijan Durasek however the the stage finish was won by Luis Mas (Caja Rural – sponsored by Vestal a white good brand in Turkey) in a sprint to the finish. Mark Cavendish sponsored by Salcano was second, And Carlos Barbero was third in the stage section completing an excellent TUR for the Spanish Team. Juan Pablo Valencia won the Red Jersey, in 4th place, sponsored by Turkish Airlines.
On a beautiful spring day in the old city the Presidential Medal was presented by the Turkish President Recep Tyabb Erdogan in the Hippodrome!
HAGIA SOPHIA
THE BLUE MOSQUE AND HAGIA SOPHIA WERE AT THEIR BEAUTIFUL BEST AS THE MOON ROSE OVER THE OLD CITY OF SULTANAHMET THIS EASTER!
