The conservative district of Eyup is named after Ayub Ansari, a standard-bearer to the Prophet and a revered member of Islam’s early leadership. His tomb by the Eyüp Sultan Camii (Mosque of the Great Eyüp) makes this complex an extremely sacred place for Muslims, ranking fourth after the big three: Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. Don’t miss the richly decorated tomb, but make sure you observe Islamic proprieties when visiting (note how pilgrims exit by walking backwards so they don’t turn their back on Ayub Ansari). You should avoid visiting on Friday or on other Muslim holy days.

The original mosque built by Mehmet the Conqueror, just five years after the Conquest, was where Ottoman princes came to gird the Sword of Osman before their accession to the throne. The mosque you see today was built by Sultan Selim III in 1800. It’s a popular place for boys to visit on the day of their circumcision.

 A cemetery meanders up the hill behind the mosque. Follow the path cutting up through the cemetery (or catch the cable car, north of the mosque) to the famous Pierre Loti Café,where the famous French novelist is said to have come for inspiration. And who could blame him? The views over the Golden Horn are magnificent.