Istanbul, a vibrant metropolis bridging Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait, is steeped in history and culture. The Old City, a treasure trove of ancient heritage, reflects the legacies of the empires that once reigned here. In the heart of Sultanahmet, the Roman-era Hippodrome stands as a reminder of its chariot racing past, adorned with Egyptian obelisks. The majestic Hagia Sophia, with its 6th-century dome and intricate Christian mosaics, remains one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.