Islamic Art & Architecture

Nuruosmaniye Mosque

Nuruosmaniye Mosque is newer than many of the other mosques in Istanbul, and its ornate Baroque style sets it apart.

Rustem Pasha Mosque

Nestled in a market area near the Spice Market, Rustem Pasha Mosque features exquisite Iznik tiles in its compact yet opulent interior.

Lisbon's Castelo de Sao Jorge

Sitting high on a hill overlooking the center of Lisbon, the Moorish Saint George Castle looks exactly how a castle should look, with its imposing ramparts offering spectacular views over the city.

The Imperial Council Hall at Topkapi Palace

These three chambers, between the Harem and the rest of Topkapi Palace, are where Ottoman Sultans met with their imperial councils to conduct affairs of state.

The Blue Mosque

There are good reasons why the Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul's prime attractions and one of the world's iconic religious buildings.

In Istanbul, new is relative. The New Mosque might be newer than the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia, but having been completed in 1665 it is historic in its own right. And it's also stunningly beautiful.

The Tombs of the Sultans at Hagia Sophia

The Tombs of the Sultans at Hagia Sophia show that the Ottomans were as serious about their art and decoration in death as they were in life.

National Palaces Painting Museum

Reopened in a newly renovated space in the Crown Prince's apartments of Dolmabahce Palace, the National Palaces Painting Museum showcases the collection of paintings of the national palaces. 

Istanbul Naval Museum

If I was picking a name for this museum, I wouldn't use the word "naval." Istanbul Maritime History Museum would be a better fit. Or better yet: Royal Water Taxi Museum. But what impressive water taxis they are!

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul's Byzantine Jewel

Hagia Sophia is old. Very old. The building that currently stands on the first of Istanbul's famous seven hills dates back almost 1,500 years and has had a remarkable and colorful history. It's also a beautiful place to visit.

Istanbul's Beautiful Mosques

Istanbul's mosques dominate the city's skyline, and their understated and elegant interiors can be stunningly beautiful.