Cruising a museum and the Bosphorus

Looking for a low key last day in Istanbul, I went to the Archaeological museum and also a cruise along the Bosphorus River.

Bosphorus River cruise

The cruise went from a port near the bazaars, further up the Bosphorus, then  down to the sea of Mármara through an area known as the Golden Horn, before returning.

The minaretes of the two mosques: the Hagia Sophia on the left and the Blue Mosque on the right.
Camlika Mosque on the top of the hill.
Dolmabahce Mosque.
Houses on a hill along the riverside.
Dolmabahce Palace
The Maidens Tower has been present since 1000 AD though past tiers have been destroyed in earthquakes, fires, etc. Some versions also connected to walls which are still visible in parts under water.
The view of the Sea of Mármara from the veranda of my hotel. What a beautiful view!
After passing the pier on the tour, i stopped at the first place I saw for a fish sandwich. Freshly caught, grilled, and put together quickly. So yummy.
The glass with red juice is actually pickled veggies.

Archaeological museum

So many cultures and empires in Constantinople/Turkey history, it is difficult to put it all together quickly but I like picking up pieces here and there.

Did you know that in some cultures it was thought that the sarcophagus was your home as you lived in your afterlife, therefore they were often shaped as houses?

3rd century BCE sarcophagus.
The stairs on the right is that of an eagle (head missing)
Limestone sculpture of Bes 7th to 6th century BCE
Sculptures from 3rd century BCE
2nd century sculptures
Statue of Emperor Hadrian, 2nd century
Statue of Alexander the Great, 3rd century BCE
Gigantomachy (Battle between Gods and giants).   2nd century.
Great statue of Zeus 2nd century

Excavation of Troy found that there are 10 distinct periods of culture in the city. This picture is of Troy 6 from 1700-1350 BCE. The oldest period is 3500 BCE and the youngest is from 13th to 14th century.

Pottery samples from Troy.

Macedonian pottery found in Troy dating back to 13th century BCE shows trading between t HH e two regions goes far back in history.

Greek influence.
Crowns from Byzantine and Constantinople reigns. First century.
Alexander sarcophagus, 300 BCE. Sarcophagus of the lasr King of Sidon. The artwork is the winning of the battle of Issus which gave Alexander a gateway to Syria and made the deceased the king of Sidon.
Sarcophagus, late 5th century BCE