Taksim square and the spice market

The next day we hopped on the tram and the New modern Funicular and made a visit to Taksim square, the large square incorporates a statue commemorating the founding of the Republic of Turkey. 

Taksim Square, located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey, is a bustling urban hub known for its vibrant energy, historical significance, and cultural diversity. The square itself is a vast, open space surrounded by modern architecture, but it is also deeply rooted in Turkish history, serving as a symbolic and political focal point.

The main shopping street runs off the square,Istiklal Street, the famous pedestrian avenue that branches off from the square. This lively, 1.4-kilometer street is lined with 19th-century buildings that house boutiques, cafes, art galleries, nightclubs, and some of the city’s most renowned restaurants. The street is a mix of old-world charm and modern life, with its cobblestone pathways and the occasional sight of the historic red trams that slowly glide up and down.

 

We then retuned to the Bosphurus ferry area and wandered around the Old spice bazaar. The Spice Bazaar is located in the Eminönü district, right next to the iconic New Mosque (Yeni Cami) and within walking distance to the waterfront where the Golden Horn meets the Bosphorus. 

The Spice Bazaar itself, built in 1660, is an architectural masterpiece. The building features Ottoman Baroque design elements, with its domed ceiling and spacious interior corridors lined with shops. The intricate tilework, arches, and decorative motifs give the bazaar a historic and almost mystical atmosphere. The interior is slightly dim, adding to the exotic feel of the place.