Western Turkey : Religious Education
[Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4, Key Stage 5 - A Level]
Subject related visits
Hagia Sophia/Blue Mosque
These two spectacular places of worship, located across from one another, combine beauty with a testament to the Ottoman Empire's impact on religious practice.
Arap Mosque
Now a Mosque, this was built as a Catholic church in an Orthodox city, illustrating how places of worship change function as the people of the city change their practices.
Topkapi Palace
The fusion of religious and secular power in the Ottoman Empire/Caliphate can be seen in this palace, where personal belongings of the Prophet Mohammed are exhibited.
Church of St Mary of the Mongols
A Byzantine church that remained a church; the nature of religious co-existence and the unique level of religious tolerance in the Ottoman Empire can be explored in a visit here.
Further highlights
- Classical Studies & Archaeology
Guided tour of Istanbul
Take in the wonderful sites of Istanbul which is the only city in the world to straddle two continents. Visit the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrom, the Underground Cistern, Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia.
Troy and Pergamum
Explore the ruins of this legendary city to develop an understanding of the layers of civilisations uncovered here. Transfer on to visit Pergamum, founded by Alexander the Great, to see the ruins of the Acroplois and the Ascelepion, dedicated to the God of healing.
Ephesus
This city of ancient Anatolia is one of the most impressive cities in Europe. Walk along the Arcadian Way and see the theatre where St Paul preached and also take in the superbly preserved library.
Pamukkale
This is a natural site and attraction that encompasses beautiful countryside with thermal springs. You can enjoy the thermal pools or simply take in the breathtaking views. Pamukkale is also known as the Cotton Castle.
- History & Battlefields
Tekfur Sarayi Palace
This is the largest surviving secular Byzantine building in Istanbul. Also known as the Palace of Constantine Porphyrogenitus, its façade reveals something of the power the Byzantine Empire held at its height.
Hagia Sophia/Blue Mosque
These two spectacular places of worship, located across from one another, combine beauty with a testament to the Ottoman Empire's impact on the area, enabling students to reflect on changes and continuities in the city.
Topkapi Palace
Home of the Ottoman Emperors and a symbol of their power, students can reflect on the importance of decisions taken in this building for the development of the Empire and events elsewhere in Europe.
Dolmabahçe Palace
Built in a European style, this palace represents something of the Empire's later development and reform. Students can see the dynamism behind seemingly-monolithic periods.