Istanbul: A Childhood Calling

The Ottoman Empire began around 1299 under Osman I in northwestern Anatolia. It grew rapidly, conquering Bursa, Edirne, and eventually Constantinople in 1453, which became its capital.

The empire reached its peak in the 1500s under Suleiman the Magnificent, ruling vast territories across Europe, Asia, and Africa and controlling major trade routes.

From the 1600s onward, the empire slowly declined due to military defeats, internal problems, and rising European powers. After siding with the losing side in World War I, the empire collapsed.

In 1922, the Ottoman Sultanate ended, and the Republic of Türkiye was founded.

Yes, that brief history of the Ottoman Empire from online, history books and historians. What if I travelled back in time? I dreamed of travelling then to Constantinople former name of Istanbul – when I was a kid, I thought that I was living on that year 1299 and I cannot imagine how life would be and as a kid, what should I do then? Since I love anything about World History, I know one day I will step in to the historic city of Türkiye.

Until – May of 2016, that experience happened.

I tried to pinch myself many times if this is really happening or I am stocked still in my dreams. Nope! I’m here. 2016 is a social media era. Taking a lot of photos and videos even though I am still in van from airport to Taksim. Anything that my phone could be recorded, and I am literally living my dreams.

I haven’t experienced Turkish hospitality since I haven’t been in Türkiye itself and no way I have Turkish friends or network too. Let me say, Philippines and Türkiye shared same values and hospitality. The boutique hotel I’ve stayed for two weeks – made me feel that I am home, my second home let me say. I cannot think where I will start – this is my first story, a glance, personal, memorable and I will write this kind of stories or posts specifically the Turkish hospitality, the people.

Navigating the entire city for two weeks was food for the soul.

As a lone traveler, the city is very safe, with massive energy from both locals and tourists. It is also my first time to have Turkish foods – Iskender, Doner, Lahmacun, Pide, Baklava and a lot more since I haven’t memorized the name of the meals due to excitement and I think starvation – let me hold it for a sec.

The map that was given to me still in my box, yeah, seriously and listed below all the Historic Landmarks, palaces, museums, parks that I have visited and explored during my two weeks stay last May of 2016 in Istanbul;

Historic Landmarks & Iconic Sights

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

One of the world’s most famous monuments — originally a Byzantine cathedral (537 AD), later an Ottoman mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again. Known for its massive dome and golden mosaics.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

Famous for its 20,000 blue Iznik tiles and six minarets. A masterpiece of Ottoman architecture built in 1616.

Topkapi Palace

The home of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Features royal courtyards, the Harem, and treasures like the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. (ohaaa!!)

Basilica Cistern

A mysterious underground water reservoir from the 6th century with 336 marble columns and Medusa heads. (chill)

Sultanahmet Square (Hippodrome)

Once the Byzantine Hippodrome for chariot races; now a public square with ancient monuments.

Palaces & Towers

Dolmabahçe Palace

A lavish 19th century palace blending Ottoman and European styles, filled with chandeliers, carpets, and royal collections.

Galata Tower

A medieval stone tower offering 360° panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and Bosphorus.

Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi)

A legendary tower on a tiny islet in Bosphorus, used historically as a lighthouse and watchtower.

Bazaars & Markets

Grand Bazaar

One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets with 4,000+ shops selling jewelry, carpets, leather, and souvenirs.

Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)

A colorful, fragrant market from the 1660s selling spices, sweets, nuts, teas, and Turkish delights.

Parks & Scenic Areas

Gülhane Park

A beautiful historic park beside Topkapi Palace, once reserved for the royal court. Popular for flowers, fountains, and Bosphorus views.

Belgrad Forest

Istanbul’s largest green escape — 1,300 acres of forest with walking trails and picnic areas.

Neighborhoods & Cultural Areas

Ortaköy

A lively waterfront area known for its mosque, cafés, art stalls, and Bosphorus bridge views.

Istiklal Avenue

A bustling pedestrian street full of shops, cafés, galleries, and the nostalgic red tram.

Taksim Square

The modern heart of Istanbul — a major cultural and social hub.

Balat & Fener (from extended guides)

Colorful historic neighborhoods are known for old houses, cafés, and photography spots.

Bosphorus Experiences

Bosphorus Cruise

A must do experience offering views of palaces, bridges, mosques, and the meeting point of Europe & Asia.

Bosphorus Bridge

A massive suspension bridge connecting Europe and Asia — iconic in Istanbul’s skyline.

I am just getting started and . . .

To be continued . . .