Istanbul day 2

Next was the Bascilla Cistern built by the Romans to store water and still in beautiful condition. Hundreds of columns support the ceiling, hundreds of carp swimming the water now.

Note Medusa at the base of the column ..... upside down because if you look into her eyes the myth is that you will turn to stone.

Afternoon visit to Topkapi Palace, used by the Sultans adorned by beautiful ceramics. We also followed the footsteps of courtesans and concubines behind the harem walls.

Whirling Dervishes ...... A cult and tradition, apparantly they put themselves into a trance to be closer to God.

Ike made more new friends in a cafe on the Bosphorus.