Frescoes and mosaics

Istanbul is home to many beautiful buildings containing important early art work. As patrons of art, many benefactors supported artists whose work appears on the walls of churches, mosques and palaces. It would be impossible to visit them all, even if one month were available. In my short stay, here are a few images from my ramblings about the city:

The Blue Mosque...

Built 1609-16 and so named for the interior of mainly blue Iźnik tile work. It is one of the most famous religious buildings in the world.

The Church of St Saviour in Chora...

Some of the finest Byzantine work can be found in the church dating from the 11th century.

Hagia Sophia...

More than 1400 years old, with splendid Byzantine mosaics. The dome raises to 184 ft.

Dolmabahce Palace...

Designed by great Armenian architects, 1856, the palace walls and ceilings are adorned throughout with art fresco painting. Another type of painting can be found on the many large tile fireplaces.