Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that his country has never viewed its neighbor Greece as an enemy or adversary, and that there are no unsolvable problems with its neighbors.

This came in an interview with the Greek newspaper Kathimerini regarding relations between Ankara and Athens, ahead of an official visit he intends to make to Greece tomorrow, Thursday, December 7.

Erdogan referred to many outstanding issues between Turkey and Greece, stressing that the two countries are aware of this, but whether or not to allow these problems to raise tension between the two governments and the two peoples is also in the hands of the two countries.

He explained that in this context he recently spoke about “opening a new page” and the “win-win” principle in relations between Turkey and Greece.

He stressed that the “win-win” principle lies at the core of Turkey’s approach to international relations and diplomacy.

Erdogan stressed that addressing differences through dialogue and meeting on common ground will benefit everyone.

He pointed out that Turkey and Greece have recently gained good momentum regarding shaping their relations within the framework of this approach.

He added: “The channels of dialogue between us are open and operating at all levels, and our mutual visits are also intense. We have the desire to develop our cooperation in many important areas for our two countries and our region on the basis of mutual trust.”

He continued: “Now, it is the responsibility of both parties to strengthen this approach, institutionalize it, and advance it further.”

He expressed his belief that “Mr. (Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos) Mitsotakis also has the same will.”

Erdogan stated that this common intention will be clearly recorded thanks to the declaration on friendly relations and good neighborliness scheduled to be signed in Athens tomorrow, Thursday.

He stressed that Turkey has never viewed its neighbor Greece as an enemy or adversary. “We, like all countries, need friends, not enemies.”

Erdogan added: “I say it frequently; we believe that we do not have any insurmountable problems with our neighbors, especially Greece.”

He said: “I think what has changed recently is that the Greek side reconsidered its point of view towards us and began to understand that we are a people who never reject the hand of friendship extended to them.”

He stressed that Turkey never hesitates to respond to attempts to target the security of its people, the integrity of its territory, and its national interests, and at the same time it is open to enhancing cooperation and friendship.

He pointed out that Mitsotakis understood this matter and was able to see Turkey’s sincere desire to overcome existing problems and improve relations with Greece.

Erdogan explained that he was happy to observe a similar approach in Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis.

Erdogan added that there are many problems between the two countries in addition to the issue of the continental shelf, and that they must be viewed together in one package.

He stressed that addressing issues selectively, talking about some and leaving others is not a correct approach because they are all interconnected.

He continued: “We must not leave any problems behind when we resort to international justice, but above all we must speak about all our problems with courage and direct public opinion correctly.”

He said that if Greece offered a similar approach to Turkey, away from foreign interference, a good start could be made towards building a peaceful future for both countries.

Regarding cooperation in the field of energy, Erdogan stressed that there are opportunities and potentials for cooperation between the two countries in the Mediterranean, and that benefiting from them can contribute to the energy security of the countries of the region and the resolution of political issues.

He stressed that attempts to exploit the potential here politically will bring with it the risk of being unable to use the region’s potential energy resources.

The Turkish President added: “We believe that energy is an element of cooperation and common profit between all countries and societies, and we want to resolve differences through dialogue. We prefer cooperation and are ready for it.”

He continued: “For this reason, I had twice proposed organizing a comprehensive conference on the opportunities available in the eastern Mediterranean, but it is unfortunate that the European Union at the forefront has remained silent about this matter, and silence does not solve problems.”

He added: “The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus also proposed that the reserves be operated jointly and revenues be shared until a comprehensive solution is reached on the island, and we support this proposal.”

He said: “What prevents the establishment of cooperation between the two parts of the island at a time when other countries in the region are moving in this direction?”

He also pointed out that there are many issues on which the two countries can cooperate in the Aegean Sea, adding: “Everything for peace and prosperity for our peoples and future generations.”

He continued that the Turkish Republic, which was established on the foundations of tolerance and embracing other cultures, continues to this day to work with a system that protects endowment institutions and their rights and transfers them to the future, pointing out that the endowment that owns the Hagia Sophia Mosque still exists today.

Regarding illegal immigration, Erdogan pointed to the increase in the migration movement in the world for several reasons, most notably political instability, which has led to an increase in the spread of criminal networks that exploit this and achieve very high profits from illegal immigration.

He added: “I say it again that no country can combat illegal immigration alone,” noting that it is a common test for countries that requires joint efforts.

He stressed the need for the European Union to support Turkey in this regard, stressing that it is necessary to share burdens and responsibilities and take joint steps to prevent migration at its source.

He stressed that the fight against migration should not be limited to cooperation between Turkey and Greece in the Aegean Sea, but rather there is a need for a broad struggle that requires the participation of the entire international community.

We have become the voice of justice and conscience in international relations

President Erdogan pointed out that Turkey and Greece joined NATO together 71 years ago, pointing out that the criterion of being Western or European is not enough to join the European Union.

He explained that Turkey is a founding member of many international organizations such as the United Nations and the Council of Europe.

He stressed that Turkey always stands on the side of justice and the voice of conscience in international relations, stressing that one of his country’s most prominent goals is to stand in the right place throughout history.

He added that Turkey’s standing by the Palestinian people who are being subjected to persecution and inhuman treatment, and its criticism of Israel for violating international law, international humanitarian law, and human rights, are considered a natural necessity for its goal (to stand in the right place throughout history).

He pointed out that some European countries have begun to take increasingly similar positions.

He stressed that “instead of discussing Turkey’s orientations and affiliation, we should discuss the fact that some Western countries sometimes ignore the values that they strongly defend.”

He continued, “The silence on the brutality in Gaza is the most prominent example of this. In fact, by opposing the genocide in Gaza, we are also defending the basic values of Western society.”

He added: “The basic rights of the people of Gaza of all ages are being violated. Where are the values of Western civilization in terms of silence about blatant human rights violations, ignoring people’s property rights, systematically confiscating their homes and lands, and depriving Palestinians of their right to determine their future?”

He added: “Is bombing hospitals, shooting schools, refugee camps, markets, and killing civilians consistent with Western values? Is it acceptable for the West to ask people in Gaza to ‘go south’ and drop bombs on those who go there?”

President Erdogan concluded by saying: “Now I ask: Is Turkey the one who belongs to the West or the Western countries that are deliberately silent about everything that is happening in Gaza?”

The post Erdogan: Turkey does not see Greece as an enemy or adversary appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

On Saturday, the city of Istanbul witnessed a demonstration to denounce the Israeli attacks on the Palestinians.

The demonstration, organized by the “National Will Platform,” came under the slogan “The Great Palestine March.”

The demonstrators gathered in Beyazit Square in the Fatih area on the European side of Istanbul, and later headed on foot to the Grand Hagia Sophia Mosque.

The demonstration included raising Turkish and Palestinian flags and banners supporting Palestine and denouncing Israeli attacks.

The demonstrators chanted slogans of solidarity with Palestine and chants denouncing Israel and its targeting of civilians.

The demonstration concluded with the participants performing the sunset prayer at the Grand Hagia Sophia Mosque, amid security measures that accompanied them during the event.

At dawn on October 7, Hamas and other Palestinian factions in Gaza launched Operation “Al-Aqsa Flood” in response to “the continuing attacks by Israeli forces and settlers against the Palestinian people, their property, and their sanctities, especially Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem.”

On the other hand, the Israeli army began a war on Gaza under the name of Operation “Iron Swords” and is now seeking to displace more than a million people from the northern part of the Strip. This was met with widespread local and international condemnation and was described as “the second forced displacement of Palestinians” after their displacement following the establishment of the State of Israel on lands. Historical Palestine.

The post Istanbul witnesses a demonstration condemning the Israeli attacks appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

The Turkish head of religious affairs, Ali Erbaş, performed the morning prayer at the Hagia Sophia Mosque, on the occasion of the third anniversary of its reopening.

In addition to Erbaş, the governor of Istanbul, Daoud Gul, and a crowd of worshipers of different nationalities participated.

After performing the prayer, Erbaş expressed his happiness after breaking the shackles imposed on the mosque and reopening it on July 24, 2020.

He stated that the Hagia Sophia Mosque is the legacy of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror and the most important symbol of the conquest of Istanbul.

The Hagia Sophia is located in the Sultanahmet district on the European side of Istanbul and was used as a church for 916 years before it was converted into a mosque after the conquest of Constantinople (Istanbul) starting in 1453.

The mosque is one of the most important architectural landmarks in the history of the Middle East and Eastern Europe, and in 1934 it was converted into a museum and remained in this situation for 86 years, to be reopened for worship in 2020.

In the aforementioned year, the Turkish judiciary issued a ruling annulling the Cabinet’s decision of 1934 regarding the conversion of Hagia Sophia from a mosque to a museum, after a lawsuit filed by the “Permanent Endowments Association and the Service of Historical Antiquities and the Environment.”

On the same day, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed the decree on the reopening of Hagia Sophia to worship and the presidential decision was published in the Official Gazette including transferring the responsibilities of managing Hagia Sophia to the Presidency of Religious Affairs.​​​​​​​​​​

And with the opening of the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque for worship on July 24, 2020, the first Friday prayer in 86 years was held, with a grand ceremony attended by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The post Head of Religious Affairs leads worshipers at Hagia Sophia appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his congratulations on the second anniversary of the reopening of the Hagia Sophia Mosque for worship, adding: We thank God that we have been able to restore it to its origin.

This came in a message he published on his Twitter account on the occasion of the second anniversary of the reopening of Hagia Sophia for worship.

Erdogan described the “Hagia Sophia” as a symbol of the conquest of Istanbul and the trust and will of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror.

He continued, “I congratulate once again on the revival of Hagia Sophia.”

In a related context, the Hagia Sophia Mosque witnessed a great turnout by local and foreign visitors on Sunday, coinciding with the second anniversary of its reopening for worship.

The entrance gate to the “Hagia Sophia” witnessed long queues of visitors wishing to visit the historical landmark.

Speaking to reporters, Turkan Cakir said that she came from Ankara to visit Hagia Sophia.

He added that she was surprised by the size of the crowding and the demand for “Hagia Sophia” on this day.

In turn, Dondo Ghezgin said that she came from Izmir to visit Hagia Sophia, indicating that the scene of the turnout reminded her of the pilgrimage season.

As for Amina Ozcan, she expressed her feeling of reassurance about being inside the Hagia Sophia.

On July 24, 2020, Friday prayers were held in the Great Hagia Sophia Mosque for the first time, 86 years after it was converted into a museum.

In the presence of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Vice President Fuat Oktay, Parliament Speaker Mustafa Shantob, ministers and other officials and party leaders.

Hagia Sophia is located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, and was used as a 481-year-old mosque.

It was converted into a museum in 1934, and is considered one of the most important architectural landmarks in the history of the Middle East.

The post Erdogan: We thank God that we reopened Hagia Sophia for worship appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan congratulated his people and the Islamic nation on the occasion of the Islamic New Year.

In a tweet published on Sunday evening via Twitter, Erdogan said: “I congratulate from the bottom of my heart my people and the entire Islamic nation on the occasion of the new Hijri year 1443.”

He added: “I ask God Almighty to bring him back to all humanity with security and peace.”

Erdogan’s tweet included a picture of the Hagia Sophia mosque in Istanbul.

The post Erdogan congratulates Muslims on the Islamic new year appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

In Sultanahmet Square, you will stand in the middle of history! From time immemorial, people’s voices roared with glee in this square!

To get to know the heart of Istanbul’s history, just take a walk with us slowly in this square, and follow us until the end of the article.

Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul

Sultanahmet Square, known as Hippodrome Square, overlooks the famous Blue Mosque, and is surrounded by other famous places.

In addition to the presence of many different museums such as the Museum of Turkish Islamic Art.

Sultanahmet district is one of the most famous tourist areas in Istanbul, and it is also a popular place to start tourist trips due to the perfect beauty and size of this square.

This square is a very impressive tourist area in Sultanahmet district, similar to the historical peninsula that leads to all the historical sites around it.

Sultanahmet Square is one of the most popular places for all the tourists, you usually find most enthusiastic tourists in this square on the first day of their visit to Istanbul.

Due to the fact that this square has turned into a no-vehicle area, tourists can walk in this square for a few hours, and visit Topkapi Palace, the German Fountain, the beautiful Hagia Sophia, the small bazaar near Sultanahmet and the colorful houses with great views in complete comfort.

Beautiful trees, ponds, fountains and vibrant greenery around the square would be perfect for taking some photographs, as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque would be all smiling in the background. (Best photobomb ever)

History of Hippodrome Square

This square was once the most famous and busiest place in the Eastern Roman Empire, hosting many famous historical sites as well as many events and adventures.

The Egyptian Stone Column, Snake Column, German Fountain and many more were among the most crowded places, which we eagerly visit today.

The Hippodrome was built by Constantine the Great in the 4th century after the official proclamation of Istanbul as the capital of Eastern Rome, and this is exactly what we call today Sultanahmet Square.

The Hippodrome was an equestrian venue during the Roman Empire, where contestants ran around the racetrack seven times to win the race, and people watched the performances with excitement.

Things to do in Sultanahmet Square

Walk around Sultanahmet Square, I promise it will be one of the most beautiful moments of your life.

Enjoy the historical atmosphere that includes the most prominent places, museums, mosques, churches, fountains and historical sites in Istanbul all together.

Then relax in one of the restaurants and cafes around the square, and enjoy a cup of tea or Turkish coffee while watching these great historical places.

The most important places to visit

• Egyptian Stone Pillar.
• Hagia Sophia.
• Topkapi Palace.
• Serpent Pillar.
• German Fountain.
• Istanbul Archaeological Museum.
• Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts.
• The blue Mosque.

The Egyptian stone column

The obelisk or stone pillar that was brought from Egypt in 390 is one of the mysteries of history, and archaeologists have not been able to discover and read the mystery of the tablets written on these pillars.

Some of these obelisks are spread all over the world. From Argentina to Italy and even Sultanahmet Square!

This stone pillar dates back to 1450 BC by the Egyptian pharaoh.

If you visit this column, know that you are standing in front of one of the oldest places in Istanbul.

The monument stands on a marble pillar and depicts the Byzantine emperor, who used to watch matches around it.

Nowadays, tourists with this obelisk take funny pictures like pushing the pillar or leaning on it and then smiling at the camera! (Yep, everyone does that)

Istanbul Archaeological Museum

Istanbul Archaeological Museum has an important collection of prehistoric artifacts from Greece, Rome and Byzantium, which are very beautifully displayed.

The entire collection has been transferred from Topkapi Palace to the Museum.

After visiting the museum, take time to walk in Gulhane Park, which was once a garden for the Ottoman kings.

The garden extends over wide green areas, decorated with flowers, tulips and tall trees.

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)

The Blue Mosque is one of the most important mosques and tourist attractions in Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul.

This mosque was built in the seventeenth century between 1603-1617 by Sultan Ahmed I.

The name of this mosque is derived from the beautiful and eye-catching Iznik tiles used in its interior design.

This mosque is a fine example of Islamic architecture and one of the most visited places in Istanbul.

When you go to this mosque, remember to wear appropriate clothes, so that you do not have to use the general covering of the mosque.

Serpent Column

One of the most unusual buildings in Istanbul, this column was brought to Istanbul from Delphi, Greece.

And this spiral column was made from melting military equipment of the enemy army as a sign of the victory of Greece over the Persians.

After the victory in this war, this pillar was presented as a gift to the Delphi Apollo Monument to show their gratitude for this place.

On this blue pillar you will see three intertwined snakes with their heads cut off.

The only surviving snake head is on display in the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, which is located just a few steps from the Sultanahmet Square, do not forget to visit it while you are there.

Hagia Sophia

Known as one of the best architectural examples in the world, the Hagia Sophia will undoubtedly amaze you both from the outside and inside.

According to the Turks, it is the eighth wonder of the world, although this claim is a little exaggerated.

In fact, this building was a nickname in the Roman era, as it was at that time the largest church in the world.

And then it was converted into a mosque when the Ottomans entered, and when the Republic of Turkey was declared, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a museum for many years by order of Ataturk.

Currently, Hagia Sophia has been converted into a mosque after a new law from the Turkish government, which means a free visit for tourists!

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is one of the biggest and most famous tourist attractions in Istanbul, this building was built between 1466 and 1478 by Sultan Mehmed II.

The palace was considered the political center of the Ottoman Empire from the fifteenth to the nineteenth centuries, and it continued in this state until the construction of Dolmabahce Palace.

You can enjoy a charming view of the Bosphorus and the Asian side of Istanbul from the beautiful balconies of the palace.

The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts displays one of the most important Turkish and Islamic art collections in the world.

These holdings belong to the Umayyad, Abbasid, Mamluk, Seljuk and Ottoman eras and include rare artifacts such as stone, ceramics, metal, silver, copper and wood, as well as jewelry, manuscripts, calligraphy, carpets and many more…

German Fountain

The German Fountain is located between Sultanahmet Square and the Blue Mosque.

It is a very beautiful fountain with great architecture, with beautiful columns and domes.

Do not forget to see it during your visit to Istanbul.

Tips for a pleasant visit:

• Official guide can make Sultanahmet Square more beautiful for you. Get help from them and know the exact date and details of each building. But beware of unofficial guides, the guide should have an official logo.
• Take good care of your bags and pockets, as this place is always crowded.

The post Sultanahmet Square – one of the best places to visit in Istanbul! appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

The 568th anniversary of the occupation of Istanbul was celebrated through special visual events held in famous places in the city.

The Communications Directorate organized an event in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism on the occasion of the anniversary of the invasion of Istanbul, which changed the course of history.

A special show commemorating the 568th anniversary of the conquest of Istanbul

Activities that began with Quran recitation continued at the Great Hagia Sophia Mosque with a demonstration conducted using light and video mapping technology in the Galata Tower.

The display featured the image of the conqueror, Sultan Mehmed Han, on horseback, who conquered Istanbul at the age of 21, opened and sealed the era, and transformed the Ottoman Empire into a global empire.

In the celebration, where information about the conquest was also expressed, images of the conquest were reflected in the sky of Hagia Sophia, the symbol of the conquest.

And using the video sky mapping method, which was applied for the first time in Turkey.

The post A special show commemorating the 568th anniversary of the conquest of Istanbul appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, “We show that we have protected the heritage of the ancestors by opening the Hagia Sophia for worship last year, putting the Great Camlica Mosque into service the previous year and holding the first Friday in the Taksim Mosque yesterday.”

President Erdogan sent a video message to the Ninth International Conquest Cup Program of the Archers Foundation.

Erdogan said: “My dear nation, dear children of Istanbul, our esteemed athletes, our dear guests, who met in Ok Maidani on the occasion of the Ninth International Conquest Cup.

I greet you all with my heartfelt feelings and loyalty, “and I hope that the 568th anniversary of the Istanbul conquest will be useful.

Erdogan said, expressing his gratitude to every member of the blessed army, especially the conqueror Sultan Mehmed Han, who conquered Istanbul and made it the Eternal City of the nation.

“I congratulate all our martyrs, veterans and heroes who sacrificed their lives without blinking for this land to be our home for a thousand years.

I wish the best of luck to our 200 athletes who came from more than 30 countries, especially in Turkey, and participated in the Archery Cup competitions.

I would like to express my special thanks to our archers who brought the spirit of conquest to the present with their arrows saying “Hey Hack”.

“We protect trust by developing and beautifying our Istanbul”

Expressing that the competition is not just a sports competition, Erdogan said, it is a cultural festival in which the meaning of the great turning point that opened and closed the ages is transmitted from generation to generation.

“Although we cannot realize this with the enthusiasm we desire due to the epidemiological conditions, I believe that the excitement of the conquest embodied in the Cup of Fath surrounded the hearts of all our youth, and we show that we protect the ancestral heritage by performing the first Friday.”

With its streets and bridges, Marmaray and the Eurasia tunnel, metro and parks, and most of all, we protect our confidence by developing and beautifying Istanbul through our many services that we provide directly to our people.

In this context, we admire the activities carried out within the Okçular Foundation, which is the First Fatih Foundation in Istanbul.

Which aims to keep the memory of our ancestors and our ancient traditions alive and to bring our youth together with sports. “

“We are building a great and strong Turkey step by step with our youth”

President Erdogan said, noting that the youth inside the institution are proud of their successful work starting from Malazhert to Istanbul, and from there to events abroad.

“We, with our youth, express the courage of Alp Arslan in Malazgirt, Osman’s dream, Gazi in Sogut, Fatih in Istanbul.

“We are building a great and strong Turkey step by step by living the revolution of the Turkish Republic, the power of Gazi Mustafa Kemal in Ankara, and the will to protect its independence on July 15th.

And these young people are the ones who will raise our civilization that we installed on these lands. We made it our home by watering them with our blood and sweat and bringing it to the top.

Today, we are repeating the saga we wrote with archers yesterday with our unmanned aerial vehicles, our programs, our production and our exports.”

President Erdogan said that they implemented all of this, taking into account the importance that grandparents attach to archery and shooting that they attribute to it, and President Erdogan concluded his speech as follows:

“The inability to enter Okemedani without ablution, and the fact that the competitions must start with Basmalah and the ability to use stocks in the exams.

Observance of morals and personality also shows us the way we should follow today.

A tree that has lost its roots cannot survive, and a society that has lost its ties to the roots of its faith and culture cannot survive for long.

We expect our young people to practice sports and traditional arts such as archery, horse riding, sword, calligraphy, lighting, and all kinds of social and cultural activities today with this understanding.

We look to our future with more confidence as we see our young people thinking mentally, feeling their heart and building with taste.

With these feelings, I hope the ninth International Conquest Cup will succeed, I would like to express my gratitude to all of our young people who have taken care of our traditional sports branches in your presence.

I congratulate from the bottom of my heart all the athletes from all over the world who are participating in the Conquest Cup. Once again, I greet you all with affectionate respect.”

The post “Fatah” message to the Turkish people from President Erdogan appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

Istanbul is currently one of the most popular tourist cities among tourists around the world.

As this Turkish city receives millions of tourists every year from all over the world, and many tourists come to visit its archaeological sites.

Meanwhile, there are many people wanting to visit museums in this city, and the Turkish government has provided facilities for tourists, including the Istanbul Museum Pass.

With the purchase of the Istanbul Museum Pass, you no longer have to pay every time you visit a museum in Istanbul, and you can also go to museums without having to wait in long lines to enter.

Follow us in this article to inform you about the advantages of the Istanbul Museum Pass.

Istanbul Museum Pass

As mentioned earlier, the Istanbul Museum Pass is one of the facilities provided by the Turkish government to the city’s tourists.

With this card, you can visit the most famous tourist attractions in Istanbul at the lowest cost, and you should know that many buildings and historical monuments in Istanbul have been converted into museums today, so through this card, you will be able to see different places closely.

You should know that each museum card is for one person only, and you do not need to get an Istanbul museum Pass for children under 12 years old.

With the museum card, you can visit each attraction only once, and if you leave the museum, you cannot re-enter it.

This museum entry card provides access to 10 museums in Istanbul, which only belong to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey.

Is the Istanbul Museum Pass the same as MüzeKart +?

No, not the same, the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism created the MüzeKart + card in 2008, it was and still a great success among Turkish citizens and foreigners residing in Turkey.

But tourists are not allowed to buy one, and the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism has created a separate card for tourists, the Istanbul Museum Pass.

The MüzeKart + card is valid for more than 300 museums all over Turkey, which only Turkish citizens and foreigners with a residence permit can obtain.

Therefore, as a tourist to Istanbul, Museum Pass Istanbul is the only card that you can apply for!

Museums that you can visit using the Istanbul Museum Pass

• Topkapi Palace Museum
• Harem Apartments in Topkapi Palace Museum
• Hagia Sophia Museum
• Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
• Istanbul Archeology Museum
• Chora Museum and Church
• The Great Palace Mosaic Museum
• Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam
• Galata Tower Museum
• Rumeli Hisar Castle Museum

Pros of the Istanbul Museum Pass

• The Istanbul Museum Pass will save you the cost of visiting the most famous museums in Turkey, about 45% of the cost
• With the Istanbul Museum Pass, you do not need to stand in line and you can enter the museum without delay

The price and validity of the Istanbul Museum Pass

The Istanbul Museum Pass is valid for 5 days, and the start time is exactly the same time you use the card for the first time.

The price of the Istanbul Museum Pass is 360 Turkish liras (about 40 euros).

How to get the Istanbul Museum Pass?

You can prepare the Istanbul Museum Pass in person or by applying online. Below, we will explain to you how you can obtain the Istanbul Museum Pass:

Getting the Istanbul Museum Pass in person

You don’t need to go to a special place to buy an Istanbul Museum Pass, all you have to do is plan to visit one of the most famous attractions in Istanbul and get the Istanbul Museum Pass from the ticket office.

In general, you can find the Istanbul Museum card in museums such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul Archeology Museums, Palace of the Mosaic Museum, Khora Church, Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam.

Setting up Istanbul Museum Pass online

As you know, these days we can use the Internet to fulfill most of our needs, so you can also apply for an Istanbul Museum Pass online, and by registering and providing your hotel’s address on the website, they will send the card to the hotel for you.

Istanbul Museum Pass Website: www.muze.gov.tr

Other Istanbul Museum pass types and prices

Istanbul Deluxe Welcome Card

This card is delivered to your hotel for free when you buy it online, and it will be ready for use upon your arrival, you can also get it from both airports in Istanbul.

Istanbul Welcome Card enables you to skip long queues in 9 museums, and a tourist guide is included with 3 of them, a Bosphorus cruise, 20 free rides on public transport (metro, bus, tram …), and a digital guide book and a map .

Museums include:

Topkapi Palace, Galata Museum, Great Mosaic Palace Museum, Hagia Sophia, Istanbul Archeology Museum, Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, Rumeli Hisar Castle, Museum of Science and Technology in Islam, and the Basilica Reservoir.

Tour guides include:

You will have a guided tour of Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Reservoir with one of Istanbul’s historical guides.

• Hagia Sophia: Tour duration: 60 daily minutes at 10:30
• Topkapi Palace: Tour Duration: 90 minutes daily at 12:00, except for Tuesday
• Basilica Reservoir: Tour duration: 30 minutes, daily at 12:00, 13:00, 15:00
• Bosphorus cruise: Tour duration: 90 minutes, daily at 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, and 17:00

Card validity and price:

It is valid for 7 days from your first visit.

Price: 85 euros.

You can buy the Istanbul Deluxe Welcome Card through its official website by clicking here.

MüzeKart + card

There are about 300 museums in Turkey, and if you want to visit them all, you can get a MüzeKart + card that cost 60 Turkish liras, which is valid for one year, but this card is only available to Turkish citizens and foreigners residing in Turkey.

To purchase a MüzeKart + card click here.

The post Istanbul Museum Pass, an economic opportunity to learn about Turkish history appeared first on Move 2 Turkey.

Whether it is walking the ancient city walls, wandering in the bazaars, visiting the Ottoman mosques, watching the sunset in the Golden Horn, or even relaxing in one of the traditional Turkish baths, there is always something you can do in the old city of Istanbul.

The Sultanahmet district in Istanbul is home to the most historical sites in Turkey, and one of the best tourist areas in Istanbul, and it is one of the most crowded areas of Istanbul that are crowded with tourists from all over the world.

Sultanahmet is located on the historical peninsula that stretches across the Bosphorus to Asia, and was formerly the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

The area was named after Sultan Ahmed I, who died in 1617 AD, and was buried in a mausoleum near the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul.

In our article, we will get to know about many things that you can do to make the trip to Sultanahmet more enjoyable, stay with us!

Walk the ancient city walls from the Sea of ​​Marmara to the Golden Horn

The Great Walls of Theodosius kept the city safe from any attacks for a thousand years before it fell to the Ottoman Turks in 1453, and it stretched 6.5 kilometers (four miles) across the historic peninsula.

From the Sea of ​​Marmara to the Golden Horn, these Roman walls have survived and remain a tourist attraction visited by thousands of tourists, wander the neighborhoods around the wall, and sample Turkish food and tea from the restaurants and cafes located there.

Major attractions include the Chora Church (Kariye Museum) that is famous for its mosaics, the beautiful Ottoman Mihrimah Mosque and the former palace of Byzantine Emperors Blachere (Tekfur Saray Palace).

Note: Out of caution, avoid walking along the walls at dusk, and at the end of your walk take the ferry down the Golden Horn from Ayvansaray.

Refreshing steam bath in Istanbul

Hygiene is an integral part of Islam, and in the days before homes got their own water supply, the traditional Turkish bath played a major role in the lives of residents in Turkey, as the sultans created huge dome places for cleanliness between the wooden houses of the city.

Visitors to the Turkish baths today have come to get the distinct Turkish bath experience, lounging on the hot marble, washing themselves with warm water from elegant copper dishes and having a perfect massage.

Hürrem Sultan, Cağaloğlu and Çemberlitaş are among the best Turkish baths in the old city of Istanbul.

Note: The above three hammams have separate sections for men and women, for a mixed session with traditional Turkish baths try the Sulaymaniyah Hamam.

Walk around the colorful streets of Balat and Fener!

The narrow cobbled streets of these two areas, which descend from the hill to the waterfront of the Golden Horn, were once the preserve of the Jewish, Armenian, and Greek communities of the city of Istanbul.

Then some old European style houses were bought and renovated in the late nineteenth century, coinciding with the emergence of a large number of old-style cafes around the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Saint George, making it a tourist attraction.

Balat and Fener are great areas to wander around and take lots of photos, don’t miss the recently restored Bulgarian Church of St Stephens.

Note: Ferries leave from the dock in Karakoy, and you can also reach them from Sultanahmet neighborhood, and they stop at Fener and Balat.

Dive into Istanbul’s old Bazaars

The Grand Bazaar with more than 4000 shops and the Spice Bazaar is perhaps the most square of the old markets in Istanbul, and it attracts a lot of visitors every year.

Dive into the maze of the Grand Bazaar in search of everything from handcrafted Turkish clothing and rugs to leather jackets and traditional gold jewelry, as well as dried fruits, nuts and Turkish sweets everywhere in the Bazaar.

Note: Exit the Spice Bazaar via its western gate and stroll the bustling Hasırcılar Sokak Street (Straw Makers Street), while smelling the delicious aroma emanating from Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, one of Istanbul’s leading coffee roasters.

Enjoy a Turkish coffee on the roof with a panoramic view of Istanbul

Experience the multiple terraces of Ağa Kapısı Café at sunset to enjoy the stunning views across the domes and minarets of the old city from Galata Bridge to the Bosphorus.

The place serves Turkish coffee and tea and also offers some types of juices.

Explore the Galata neighborhood at sunset

Head to the crowded market area spanning Galata Bridge at sunset to see how the Golden Horn got its name.

You will see the mesmerizing reflection of the sun at sunset, and have a cold drink at one of the many cafes built on the bridge itself.

Note: Be sure to walk along the Galata Bridge to take beautiful pictures, the bridge is also surrounded by local fishermen so you can have a nice chat with them.

Discover the famous Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque

More than a thousand years of history separate these two colossal and iconic buildings, rising proudly 500 meters (1640 feet) in the heart of Sultanahmet.

Start with Hagia Sophia, which was built in 527 by order of Justinian I (Byzantine Emperor), then with the fall of the Byzantine Empire and the entry of the Ottomans it was converted into a mosque.

Today, the Hagia Sophia is a museum and mosque, and one of the great buildings in the world, with its stunning central dome and interior architecture covered with golden mosaics.

A short stroll through a green square decorated with a beautiful fountain takes you to the domed Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), which was deliberately built opposite the Hagia Sophia to simulate the wonders of the previous structure, its name largely derived from the blue Iznik tiles, as more than 20,000 pieces adorn the interior.

Note: Be sure to visit the square between the two buildings at night to see their dimly lit architectural beauty.

Buy vegetables for the week at Çarşamba Market (Wednesday)

The oldest, largest and most lively street market in the city has given its name to an entire region.

Çarşamba (Wednesday in Turkish), a large market that stretches for many miles along the streets, there is stall after stall filled with fruits, vegetables, household utensils and clothes.

Note: Çarşamba is known for its conservative attitude, so expect to see lots of shoppers in traditional and modest clothing.

Visit Topkapi Palace, the center of the Ottoman Empire

Topkapi Palace is a whole series of buildings nestled between picturesque gardens, and a half-day visit barely suffices to do it.

From here, various Ottoman sultans ruled an empire that stretched from the Balkans to the Arabian Peninsula and from North Africa to the Crimea.

In Topkapi Palace you will find many beautiful rooms, charming gardens, armories and spacious kitchens to discover, and the view of the Bosphorus at the top of the palace will captivate you with its beauty.

Note: To get quick entry to the palace and many other museums without having to wait hours in a long line and at the same time at a lower price, get an Istanbul Museum Card for five days, which can be purchased online, from hotels, or in the museums themselves.

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