World Traveller September 2019

WEEKENDS
CULTURE TRIP
Let us reacquaint you with this
culture spot that's ideally placed for
a mind-nourishing mini break
4
ISTANBUL
Hagia Sophia
HISTORICAL SITES AND MUSEUMS
Comprised of three museums – the archaeological
museum, the museum of the ancient Orient
and the museum of Islamic art – the Istanbul
Archaeology Museums draw history buffs
with their impressive line-up of archaeological
treasures. Just around the corner, Topkapı
Palace offers a glimpse into the grand lives of the
Ottoman Empire’s Sultans during the 15 th and 19 th
centuries by showcasing extravagant relics of the
dynasty’s riches. Widely considered the epitome
of Byzantine architectural expertise, Hagia Sophia
should be your next stop. Marvel at shimmering
gold mosaics, exquisite Arabic calligraphy and
huge domes built nearly 1,500 years ago.
ART GALLERIES
Known for challenging visitors’ ideas about art,
Arter is quickly gaining a reputation as an edgy
platform for Turkish art featuring the likes of Mona
Hatoum, Sarkis and Marc Quinn. More on the
avant-garde spectrum, Rodeo offers innovation in
spades with its cutting-edge take on art. But the
crème de la crème of the city’s art scene is Istanbul
Modern. Blending the city's artistic and cultural
identity with the international art world is what
makes this creative hub a must-see.
THIS MONTH'S HIGHLIGHT
Already listed among the
most visionary art events
of 2019, the 16 th Istanbul
Biennial is taking place this
year between 14 September
and 10 November. Curated
by French art scholar and
writer Nicolas Bourriaud,
the long awaited exhibition
is titled 'The Seventh
Continent' and will aim
to highlight the impact of
ARTISAN FINDS
human activities on the
planet through the brilliant Coffee lovers should make a beeline to
work of more than 57 artists.
Çadircilar Caddesi near the Grand Bazaar
and watch coppersmiths perfect the art of coffee
pot-making. For a swirl of colour, places like Iznik
produce the best ceramic pieces renowned for
their rich and elaborate designs.
LOCAL FLAVOUR
A true classic, Borsa serves up age-old delicacies
with a gorgeous backdrop of the city. Dive into
traditional dishes like döner, kuzu taandır and içli
köfte. Alternatively, Karaköy Lokantası is the place
to go for a taste of home-cooked goodness. The
restaurant invites guests with its cosy ambience
and delicious spread of local specialities.
Traditional coffee-pot
WHERE TO STAY
Live the Sultan life at Hotel Sultania and indulge in
a signature Hammam fit for royals. For those with a
keen interest in history, Eresin Crown Hotel boasts
the title ‘museum hotel’ for its impressive display of
real artefacts from the Ottoman and Byzantine eras.
66 worldtravellermagazine.com