Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is one of the top attractions in Turkiye. — Photos: MELODY L. GOH/The Star
At a small park by the entrance of a historical neighbourhood called Hamamonu in the Turkiye capital of Ankara, lies the statue of an overweight ... actually, an extremely obese white cat. Close by is a replica of a cannon, or perhaps it is an old cannon that no longer works today. I have no idea why they are at the park, as there are no plaques or signboards around the area to explain their existence.
Honestly though, I also couldn’t really be bothered to find out why but I was rather amused by the statue as it reminded me of the famous cat meme, “Oh lawd he comin’!”
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Attractions in Istanbul and Ankara, Turkiye
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is one of the top attractions in Turkiye. — Photos: MELODY L. GOH/The Star
While making your way to Hagia Sophia, you will walk through the Hippodrome, where you can find this German Fountain, built in n1898.
The Blue Mosque is still undergoing restoration works.
The peninsula area in Istanbul is a great place to hunt for souvenirs.
The Galata Tower is an ancient watchtower that still stands today. It was first built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinianos in early 6th century; the tower has undergone several reconstructions, renovations and preservations over the centuries.
The Taksim Mosque is situated right in the middle of the busy square.
The historical Galata Mevlevi Lodge, currently a museum, was built in 1491 and is the first Mevlevi house in Istanbul.
Istiklal Avenue in Istanbul is a touristy area surrounded by heritage buildings that have been repurposed as cafes, retail outlets and event spaces.
This is how kebaps are usually served in restaurants in Turkiye. Slices of grilled meat (usually lamb) are served atop a piece of flat bread, alongside some grilled vegetables. Sauce is then poured on top (in this case, a tomato-based sauce), as well as hot melted butter.
A vendor selling simit at Taksim Square in Istanbul.
The ancient Roman Baths in Ankara is a fantastic archaeological site.
The ancient Roman Baths in Ankara is a fantastic archaeological site.
One of the relics on display at the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations in Ankara.
The Turkish Hall is located within the Ankara State Art and Sculpture Museum.
The Republic Museum in Ankara is also known as the Second Parliament building, where parliamentary proceedings once took place.
The mysterious fat cat statue at Hamamonu in Ankara.
In Hamamonu, Ottoman-styled houses were preserved over the decades and are now being used as restaurants, shops and even offices.
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