Ep 14. At the Center of It All
- February 19, 2019
At the Center of It All is the fourteenth episode of the third season of the popular television series, Cities of the Underworld. This episode takes viewers on a journey deep into the heart of one of the most fascinating and mysterious cities in the world - Istanbul.
Istanbul has a rich history that spans over 2000 years. Built on seven hills, it was once the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. It has been a center of trade and culture for centuries, and its underground tunnels and chambers are a testament to its complex and fascinating past.
In this episode, host Don Wildman takes viewers on a tour of Istanbul's underground world, exploring the hidden chambers and tunnels that lie beneath the bustling city streets. From the ancient cisterns that once supplied water to the city, to the mysterious underground passages that connect the city's most famous landmarks, viewers will discover a world that most people never get to see.
The episode opens with a visit to the famous Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir that once supplied water to the inhabitants of Constantinople. Built in the 6th century by the Emperor Justinian, the cistern is an architectural marvel, with over 336 marble columns supporting the roof. Don explores the vast chambers of the cistern, discovering hidden tunnels and passageways that were once used by city residents to escape from invaders.
Next, Don visits the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. Beneath the maze of shops and stalls lies a network of underground tunnels that were once used to transport goods and people throughout the city. Don explores this hidden world, discovering secret chambers and hidden rooms that were once used by merchants and traders to store their wares.
The episode then takes viewers on a tour of the Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower that dominates the skyline of Istanbul. Built in the 14th century, the tower was once used as a watchtower and then as a prison. Don climbs to the top of the tower, enjoying an amazing view of the city below. He then descends into the tower's underground dungeon, where prisoners were once kept in cramped and dark cells.
The final stop on this fascinating tour of Istanbul's underground world is the Hagia Sophia, one of the city's most famous landmarks. Built in the 6th century, the Hagia Sophia was once the largest church in the world, and then later a mosque before becoming a museum. Don explores the underground passages and hidden chambers of this amazing building, discovering ancient mosaics and other treasures that have been hidden away for centuries.
At the Center of It All is an amazing journey into the heart of Istanbul's underground world. From the ancient cisterns and tunnels to the hidden chambers beneath the Grand Bazaar, viewers will be fascinated by the secrets and mysteries that lie beneath the surface of this amazing city. Don Wildman is the perfect guide for this journey, bringing his energy and enthusiasm to every step of the way. This episode is a must-see for anyone who loves history, architecture, or adventure.
