To see a dazzling collection of glittery mosaics, go to Santa Kariye. the 5th century Byzantine church. Also referred to as St. Savior in Chora and as the Church of the Holy Savior, the church is richly decorated with 14th century mosaics in excellent condition. The mosaics tell the story of the lives of Mary, Joseph and Jesus. Now operated as a museum, Chora is well worth the taxi trip outside of the center of Istanbul where most of the tourist attractions are concentrated. The church's Greek name Chora signified the fact that when built, it was in the country, outside the walls of Constantinople (Istanbul's former name). Tip: Do I like did, and zero in on looking at the figures' hands. It was great fun to find and photograph so many elongated fingers graced by gold. Address Kariye Camii Sok., Kariye Meydani, Edirnekapi, Istanbul, Turkey
Phone: 0212 631 92 41
Website: www.choramuseum.com