Haghia Sophia

It didn't take us long to figure out that Allanah's interest in history is non existent. The crowds here are big, entering any historical monument takes quite a bit of energy and before we've even started Allanah has had enough. The pool and ice cream have been our constant bribes. Let's hope this form of bribery works till Friday.

There is only one word to describe Haghia Sophia and that's "wow". Nothing can compare you for the magnificence of this place. Most of the original decorations of Haghia Sophia have been covered up with white wash when Constantinople fell, but in the 19th century portions were removed to reveal the icons made out of mosaics.







It is interesting to see the Arabic calligraphy amongst the Christian icons. It did spark a lot of discussion amongst the kids as to why there has to be a religion at all. We walked the tunnels to the top of Haghia Sophia and discussed how along these tunnels thousands of children were massacred as they spent weeks here hiding until they were discovered.

It makes you wonder if there was no religion could we all live in harmony?







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We have already made our first carpet purchase at the Grand Bazaar without even meaning to. While Lucas and Allanah had a relax with Yiayia and Papou we though we'd have a quick squiz at the Bazaar. Let me tell you those carpet sellers are good. Before we knew it we were looking at carpet after carpet, being served drinks and walked out with a sizable carpet. No tactic John used could out surpass the comebacks of our friendly carpet seller. They say a fair price is when both parties are happy. I was happy, the carpet seller was happy, don't know if John was so happy!

Location:Istanbul