TUR11

Become a true expert on the thrilling history of the Byzantine Empire. What nowadays is Turkey and, before that, the core of the Ottoman Empire, centuries ago used to be the eastern half of the Roman Empire. With Istanbul (then, Constantinople) as its capital, it became an empire of its own after it survived the fall of the original Western Roman Empire, thus outliving it. This tour takes you to all of the most interesting remains of this splendid age. Learn about the day to day life of the common folk and the ruling classes of this former empire that, as its ubiquitous ruins testify, won’t give up the ghost. Travel through the magnificent city of Istanbul to learn all about the past art and civilization of the former capital of the Byzantine Empire, a cultural centre from the fourth to the 15th century. This extraordinary tour takes you on a trail of ancient monasteries, churches in ruins, age-old stone houses, even columns and cisterns. If you dare, venture too into the deep creepy dungeons where rich and poor perished alike; these vaults are eerily well preserved and the chill of death lingers within. The highlight of the day is a visit to the Holy Saviour in Chora, an astounding church that used to be a monastery in Byzantine times. Nowadays, it has been reconverted into a museum, to let the world admire the magnificent mosaics and frescoes that adorn its every wall. Languages English. Others As mosques are closed on Fridays, there will only be external visits on that day. Redeem informationVoucher type: Printed and e-VoucherPrinted voucher or E-voucher. Print and bring the voucher or show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.LocationStart point: Hotel pickupEnd point: Same as the starting pointScheduleOpening dates08:00 - 16:30Duration: 8 HoursGuide optionsGuide type: Guide