Istanbul enjoys a unique situation by the edge of the sea, at the crossroads of two continents, several cultures and civilisations. The atmosphere of its streets is light, busy and above all vibrant. But what would Istanbul be without its architectural splendours?
Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosquee, the Tokapi palace and the other wonders of the city are not only the physical records of an incredibly rich and agitated history; they mark the layers of time, they give a special window to each of the successive kingdoms, religions and visions of the world that have been carved into the face of Istanbul. They made it what it has become today. This is probably why Istanbul still holds this very special sense of mystery and sacred.