This is the final post of a two-month journey that took me from Istanbul to Athens via the Sea of Marmara, the Turkish Aegean coast, several Greek islands and the Peloponnese. It was not planned in any conventional sense. It started with my aunt Janet, who wanted to visit Constantinople. It ended, as these things sometimes do, somewhere else entirely.
The tram took us over the Golden Horn to Karaköy. My favourite way to cross is by boat, but the tram is faster. We began our day with a plan – to look for churches. Our reasoning was simple — wherever there was a church, there would once have been Greek houses. These were usually…
A visit to Agia Sophia in Istanbul, exploring its Byzantine past, layered history and enduring Greek connections.
Exploring Istanbul’s Asian side in Kadıköy, searching for Greek churches, old houses and traces of a past that still lingers in the streets.
Exploring Büyükada and its Greek connections, from churches and monasteries to old wooden houses that reflect the island’s past.
Exploring Fener and Balat in Istanbul, where colourful streets, historic buildings and layers of Greek, Jewish and Ottoman heritage meet.
A visit to Agia Irene followed by a Bosphorus cruise, with reflections on Istanbul’s contrasts and the realities of travel, including a scam encounter.
A visit to Istanbul’s Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern, exploring their history, atmosphere and the realities of visiting these iconic sites.
An 8 week trip – Istanbul to Athens itinerary following a real route across the Aegean by ferry and bus, with practical detail and key stops along the way.
