Back at Sea

The Battle of Gallipoli took place in this area. Australians. Kiwis and Newfoundlanders supported the Allies against the Ottomans. They wanted to open a sea route to Russia through the Dardanelles Strait and capture Constantinople. Lots of casualties ensued and the Allies finally withdrew. Modern Turkey was born and Constantinople was changed to Istanbul.

Istanbul – 2 Days

Bosphorus Cruise
The Maiden’s Tower – a James Bond photo spot
Inside the Blue Mosque
Hanging ostrich eggs keep spiders and subsequently webs, from forming in places they cannot clean
Foot washing area
The Basilica Cistern – another James Bond photo spot
Topkapi Palace
Hagia Sophia Mosque
Spice Market
Grand Bazaar
Fishermen on the Galata Bridge
Rob found a friend
Cats everywhere
Back on board
Happy Hour at sunset

Kusadasi

Bus trip to Ephesus
Mother Mary’s House

Allegedly the home of Mary, where she fled with John after the Crucifixion, and lived the last 12 years of her life. 4 popes have visited here and the latest pope is due here in November.

Prayers of the people
Replica of altar inside the house
The Ruins of Ephesus – one of the grandest cities in the Roman Empire around 1st Century AD. First settled around 1000 BC.
The Library of Celsus. Had over 12000 scrolls and was the third largest library in the ancient world
Cats everywhere
Back in Kusadasi. The best genuine fakes in the world, apparently
Carpet Weaving
The Palace of the Grand Vizier
The glass was as big as my head!
Yum!!!
Rather overly zealous salespeople
Can you spot C and R on our balconies?
Leaving Kusadasi