So far on your family holidays, Turkey has provided you with sun, sea and sand for the best part of your trip. But it seems a shame to go home without having shown the kids some of the fantastic culture on offer in this fascinating country. The majority of the country’s citizens are currently Islamic, but there is a wealth of rich history of other religions and politics surrounding the country. This means that a trip to Turkey can offer you experience of systems of beliefs and history that are very different from your own. So capture the kids before they head down to the beach, and show them the real Turkey with some of Istanbul’s finest buildings.
Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art
Found in Istanbul, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art is a treasure trove of beautiful artefacts. The museum lies in the foundations that remain of a palace built by the Grand Vezir to Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent, Ibrahim Pasha. Pasha met his downfall when the Sultan’s wife labelled him a traitor for not supporting her son as the next candidate for the Sultancy. He was killed and his wealth seized by the Imperial Government. What is left of Pasha’s palace today makes a wonderful home for the collection of artifacts that make up the museum. From religious art, to Turkish carpets, to Nomad’s tents; this museum will take you on a whistle-stop tour through Turkey’s history. When it comes to cultural family holidays, Turkey does not disappoint.
Topkapi Sarayi
Topkapi Sarayi Palace as it is perhaps better known, is an essential inclusion on the itinerary of family holidays. Turkey’s Ottoman Sultans inhabited this palace for nearly 400 years, surrounded by hundreds of servants, concubines and children. Take a few strides in their footsteps as you wander through the harem, into the beautiful and spacious grounds and through any one of the four enormous courtyards. In the third courtyard, you’ll find the treasury; bursting at the seams with incredible gems, pieces of gold and a spectacular collection of artwork, this is well worth a look.
Ayasofya (Hagia Sophia)
Ayasofya, also known as the Church of Divine Wisdom is quite a sight to behold, particularly when you see it lit up after dark. This church was built to outdo the enormous Church of St Polyeuchtos, which it did with little trouble. It then remained the largest church in existence, until the construction of St Paul’s Basilica in Rome over a thousand years later. By far the most impressive building you are likely to see on your family holidays, Turkey’s greatest building was proclaimed a mosque following Mehmet’s conquest of the city in 1453. However, in 1935 it was re-established as a museum, and it remains such to this day. One room is still designated for prayer, and you will hear the call-to-prayer filling the area at certain times of the day. The intricate mosaic tiling found inside the building, only add to its splendour. Undoubtedly Turkey’s most impressive building, the Church of Divine Wisdom is not to be missed.
A perfect location for family holidays, Turkey offers everything from warm weather to stunning sunshine and beautiful beaches. But the finest places you’ll find to visit are those that take you back through Turkey’s history, and allow you to really enjoy the fascinating culture of this country. Be sure to get your kids their fill of culture before you let them drag you back to the beach.
Davide Smith is the Destination Expert for Bargain Holidays Online, a unique holiday website which specialises in cheap, last-minute deals for family holidays Turkey as well as giving you access to over 20 million other bargain holiday deals. Book your bargain holidays with BargainHolidaysOnline.com today and save.
