The Hagia Sophia (St. Sophia) completed in 537 during Justinian’s reign. The minaret’s were added after Mehmet II conquered the city and in praise to Allah converted it to a mosque. Very impressive to view, and definitely the oldest structure I had ever set foot in. The history in those walls could almost be felt….. 

The Blue Mosque, constructed at the bidding of Sultan Ahmet I between 1609-1617. 

The view from our hotel window. Yep, the trams made some noise as they passed. But in the distance you can see two of the six minarets that grace the Blue Mosque. The call to prayer was broadcast from there at 6:00 am was definitely a unique wake-up call…. 

This Medusa’s head is the base of one of 336 marble columns in the Yerebatan cistern, constructed by Constatine. It was a pretty ingenuous engineering fete and is a pretty amazing thing to see…to dark for decent pictures though…you just have to see it. 

For those so inclined, I suggest reading this excellent article (click the title to this post)on just how much progress has been made in Afghanistan. There’s still a ways to go, but there is no question that what has been accomplished in 3 short years is amazing.

Arrgh. One thing about taking time off is getting out of the getting up and going to work routine. I haven’t shaved for a week and am I not looking forward to scraping off those wiskers, putting on the neck tie, and making that long commute to DC. Alas.

Tonight I will post some photos and comments on our trip to Istanbul. An amazing place. See you then.

Hillary making friends at an orphanage…. 

Thanksgiving in Afghanistan 

This is one of my favorites of Hillary in Afghanistan….