Today is traveling day! We all packed the night before and woke up extra early so that Mohammad, Baba-jan, and I could visit Topkapi Palace before we left for the airport.
Entrance to Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace was constructed in 1459 and served as the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans for approximately 400 years. The above picture is of the empirial gate. It is inscribed, "By the Grace of God, and by His approval, the foundations of this auspicious castle were laid, and its parts were solidly joined together to strengthen peace and tranquility. May God make eternal his empire, and exalt his residence above the most lucid stars of the firmament." Inside, the Palace holds perhaps the largest collection of Islamic artifacts including Prophet Muhammed's (PBUH) cloak and sword.
After our quick tour of Topkapi Palace Baba-jan, Mohammad, and I met Vahid and Madar-joon at our hotel and checked out. We went to McDonald's for lunch (has to be the nicest McDonald's I have ever seen) and then headed for the airport.
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At the airport Mohammad's plane departed a few hours before ours, so Vahid and I walked Mohammad to his departure gate then said our goodbyes. It's a good thing Vahid was there to walk me back to Baba and Madar-joon! After a few hours of trying to sleep on airport benches, we finally boarded our plane to Iran! I felt nervous, excited, and a bit anxious. I kept watching the flight map and I remember the exact moment we crossed into IranI air space! We also crossed over Tabriz, the home of some of our dearest friends!
Tabriz from my window seat. BTW, those white things are not clouds! There was lots of snow!
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