Istanbul
Continuously inhabited for 3,000 years, Byzantium became Constantinople, which became Istanbul. In 330 AD, Constantine founded Constantinople, the Christian capital of the Byzantine (Eastern Roman) Empire. Though almost continually besieged by attackers, the city remained independent until 1453, when the Ottoman Turks successfully invaded and Istanbul was became the capital of the Islamic sultans.
Fun food
Two snacks kids will want to try are simit, a kind of giant pretzel with sesame, and Turkish Delights candy (lokum), flavored with rosewater, lemon, cinnamon or mint.
Topkapi Palace was the administrative center of the Ottoman empire, but also residence of the sultan, his wives and many children. Take a three hour private family walking tour of Topkapi Palace, learn about the secret life of the Seraglio, with activities such as drawing and calligraphy:
