The first notes for today were recorded in a cafe at the Galata Bridge, where I enjoyed an early afternoon beer. I had spent the morning wandering around the city, soaking up the sights and sounds. It was so noisy and vibrant, the characterful hawkers broadcasting the wonders of their wares, the man playing his flute, the cobbled streets, and two large German women in blue summer dresses photographing the small street stalls.
I visited the Basilica Cistern, a huge underground reservoir built in the 6th century. The roof was supported by over 300 marble columns and the cistern could hold up to 80 million litres of water.
The Galata Bridge I saw was the fourth incarnation of the bridge crossing the Golden Horn. It was built as a floating bridge in 1912 but was badly damaged by fire in 1992. They towed it upstream, but part of the bridge collapsed. They somehow also lost three pieces of it after the towing.
I had a lovely piece of freshly caught and fried fish down by the bridge, with a chunk of bread. 2 lira (6p) well spent!
So, not much action on Day 24, but one to stimulate the senses. No clues for tomorrow – I will buy some time and remain constant and hopeful in Istanbul. Oh, that was painful even by my standards!
Psychologist on the Move 