We have arrived in Istanbul

First day in Istanbul-where east meets west

Last night we flew from Izmir to the sprawling ancient city of Istanbul, now home to 15 million people. 

Formerly known as Constantinople and now Istanbul, it truly is the city where Asia and Europe meet, the only city in the world with that distinction.  Separated by the Bosporus Strait, the city is a collection of contrasts, with modern construction in the shadows of centuries old buildings.  We first went to the ancient Hippodrome, once known for its horse races around the oval track.  Today there are remains of ancient pillars, exquisite mosaic gazebos and beautiful gardens in the center of an oval pathway rather than horse track.  From there we boarded a ferry boat for an amazing tour around the Bosporus Strait, getting a bird’s eye view of ancient mosques, universities, palaces and summer homes of sultans on both the Asian and European sides of the city.  Then we experienced the Spice Market, dating from the 1500's, where many of the local people buy their spices, fruit, plants, as well as local handcrafts.  The smell of the spices was enticing, as well as the fantastic Turkish treats, all sorts of fruit bars filled with pistachios and other nuts.  One of the historic sites here are the underground cisterns which provided reserves for the city's water supply from 500 AD.  We were surprised by what we saw as we went down into the cistern area: scores of ancient pillars supporting huge domed ceilings made to allow a huge supply of water to accumulate.  Today the lighted pillars cast an ethereal glow on the shallow water that remains today.  The ingenuity and “recycling” of pillars from other temple locations is amazing.  Then we moved on to the famous Great Bazaar with more than 4,000 shops. We had been prepared for a much more chaotic conglomeration of stalls, but in fact, it seems to have been modernized within the ancient structure in a fairly organized way.  Hundreds of famed Turkish carpets, mosaic and painted tiles, blindingly shiny gold jewelry and scarves of every color and pattern combine in an endless display.  Though there were many visitors and shoppers in both markets, we were surprised that it wasn’t more chaotic and confusing.  It is definitely the place to experience the sights and sounds of Istanbul and where you can soak up the local flavor.  Here Constantine relocated the new center of his empire and declared Christianity as the official religion.  Much has certainly changed since that era as the skyline is now punctuated with minarets of mosques.  This area has experienced such enormous change as power shifts have occurred throughout the ages, and elements of these eras meld into the vibrant city we see today.  We marvel at the rich history of this city and region, realizing that all history is His-story.  Looking back, we are appreciating those who have gone before us, knowing that His hand continues to control the big picture, finding great comfort in His sovereignty.

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