Apart from the priceless treasury, a distinguished collection of Chinese porcelains, holy relics, sultan’s costumes and imperial weaponry are exhibited in different sections of the palace.

The Hippodrome has been a center for sports and entertainment in the old Constantinople, the Roman capital; as well as very important political center for politics, as sports and politics were closely knitted up at these times. No wonder that the Hippodrome has been a starting point for revolts and political movements throughout the history. Echoes of cries by slaves riding chariots in ferocious races; and the passionate words of intellectuals and poets that lit the flame of public movements are still reminiscent, to those with a powerful imagination.

The “Shrine of Holy Wisdom”, the marvelous Byzantine basilica built in the 6th century Marks the true beginning of the golden age of Justinianus, the conqueror of Africa and Italy, who achieved lasting fame through the complete revision of all Roman law, resulting in what is known today as the Corpus Juris Civilis.

The domed construction of the sanctuary is an architectural innovation; and was so richly and artistically decorated that Justinian proclaimed, "Solomon, I have outdone thee!”. Mankind would have to wait for over a millennia before being able to built a cathedral that would surpass the gigantic size of Haghia Sophia. It was converted to a Mosque following the Ottoman conquest of the city, by the order of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in 1453; as the young Sultan fulfilled a divine premonition by the Holy Prophet Mohammad himself. In 1935 the building was converted to a museum, by the executive order of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.

 It was the dying wish of Sultan Ahmet, who perished at a young age at the 17th century, due to a disease, to finish the mosque so that his name would live forever. It is called Blue Mosque by visitors who fell in the awe of the delicate designs of Ottoman tiles that decorate the walls of the shrine. The floral patterns of the tiles, as well as well-lighted, capacious internal spaces are a testimonial of the eternity of the soul.

The largest and the most attractive covered bazaar in the world; where people have been trading diamonds, carpets, food, perfumes, and, even gossip for centuries !

1) Optional Post Congress Tours are tailor made for the participants of ISBI 2010 only and will be operated for minimum 6 people. If the number of participants for a single tour is less then 6 the tour will not be operated.

2) The price of the tours include air flight tickets, transportation, English speaking official tour guide, entrance fees, lunches during the tours (drinks are not included) and bed&breakfast accommodation in a 4 star hotel.

3) For reservation please fill in the “Registration and Accommodation Form.