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ATOL Protected
All of our holidays that include flights are protected by the ATOL scheme from the moment you book. So if one of our suppliers fails, you’ll get your money back. If you’re left stranded abroad, a flight home will be arranged at no extra cost. Our ATOL number is 11806
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ABTA Protected
As proud ABTA members we deliver the highest standards when it comes to our holidays. So if you book with us you’re guaranteed the best service. Our ABTA number is P8283, Y6720.
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Secure trust account
Unlike many other travel companies we operate on a trust account model. Once we’ve paid the airline for your flights, the rest of your money is held in a trust account. We do not have access to this directly and can only withdraw funds when you are back home from holiday
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Go and see one of world’s most unique historic buildings with a visit to Hagia Sophia. Built in the 6th century as a church and later converted to a mosque in 1453, you’ll see features of both religions in this ornate museum in the heart of Istanbul.
Arriving at Hagia Sophia, you’ll be greeted by huge stone cannonballs used during the 15th century during a battle for the city. Going through the entrance, you’ll come into the ground level where you’ll see Islamic decor, including the marble mihrab and the minbar pulpit. This contrasts with Christian mosaics of Christ, the Virgin Mary, the Archangel Gabriel and a barely visible Archangel Michael.
After exploring the entrance and main hall, where emperors were crowned in ancient times, go up to the galleries. During its time as a mosque, this was where the women would sit during the service. Now you can take in the views to the nave below and the dome above, and see the spot where the empress’s throne once stood.
Going into the South Gallery, you’ll see more ornate Christian mosaics, including one of the Last Judgement, before heading outside to the mausoleums, the baptistery, and the remains of Theodosius II’s church which dates all the way back to 405.
Before leaving, go to the Imperial Door where you’ll see the ‘Weeping Column’. Legend has it if you put your finger into the hole, said to be blessed by St Gregory the Miracle Worker, it can help to heal physical ailments and illnesses.
More Things To Do ideas
Find more Things To Do in Istanbul: Basilica Cistern | Bosphorus Cruise | Grand Bazaar | Topkapi Palace