Impressions of Istanbul
The images of Istanbul which I remember the most clearly are the domes and rich patterns painted with light. The palaces and mosques all combined texture and light, though sometimes with garish results.
Tiles of all colors and carved screens with intricate patterns fill Topkapi Palace, the original sultans’ residence.
Blue and gold floral tiles with dozens of patterns cover the interior of the Blue Mosque, which is not as blue as I expected.
European designers and craftsman attempted to make Dolhambace Palace more opulent than any European palace. The ballroom features the world’s second largest chandelier (Jordan now has a bigger one). Many of the rooms simply look gaudy, but the beauty of a few elements stood out.
