Konya was the capital of the Seljuk Empire, forerunners to the Ottomans, and it remains a centre of pilgrimage and learning for devout Sunni Muslims. The citizens are renowned for their piety and alcohol isn't sold in shops or restaurants, although ironically one of Turkey's biggest malt factories is located here and driving in we passed an Irish pub!
In the centre of town we came across the first anti Gaza war protestors we've seen but it was quite peaceful.
It was late afternoon by now and so we made a whistle stop visit to the Alaeddin Mosque which is part of the hilltop citadel complex and served as the main prayer hall for the Seljuk sultans. Rather a nice water fountain leading up to it.
And a few shots of the inside, shoes off of course.
Beautiful carpet.
The tiling was exquisite.
And just look at the ceiling, unfortunately I clipped the edges but I didn't think lying on the floor would be appropriate.
There's only one comment to make really - "Bottoms Up!"
The view from our 5th floor room in the dry Hotel Bera. We were very glad of our secret supplies and didn't let on to anyone, others hadn't done their research and were a bit miffed to find no wine on offer with dinner.
The way of building is quite strange; housing is 99% multi storey and never just one block on its own; as in this case where there are 8-10 buildings and not particularly attractive either.
The following morning we firstly visited the Madrasah or Karatay, an Islamic school built in 1251 and now a ceramics and tiles museum.
The colours on the ceiling were amazing.
I'm not entirely sure what this is but I think it's another dome.
These are most definitely wall tiles with gold leaf. I think I've already said how blue (or turquoise) was the most highly prized colour.
The tomb of the school's founder, Celaleddin Karatay.
