exploring en route (istanbul)

We had decided on a stop-over in Istanbul on our way to Cape Town. Visa delays shortened the stop to just two nights, but we still managed to see a lot of the sights. Jim had studied Byzantine-era Constantinople, and was excited to see the Hagia Sophia, the ancient city walls, and Byzantine mosiacs. Friends had also recommended touring Topkapi Palace and taking a Bosphorus ride, and Jennifer was excited to see the city from the top of Galata Tower. Highlights here!
 

View from the rooftop of our hotel, Neorion, in Sultanahmet.

Hagia Sofia, exterior.

An interior courtyard of the Hagia Sophia.

Interior Nave, Hagia Sophia. Notice how the marble floor has worn over time.