Basilica Cistern 

Izmir

Former Library 

Hierapolis Theater

 Evil eyes

Januray 2014

The Basilica Cistern, also known as the Sunken Cistern, is the largest ancient cisterns in Istanbul, Turkey. The cistern was built in the 6th century during the Byzantine era.

Both Ephesus and Hierapolis were Greek cities. The former is located in Izmir and the latter is next to Pamukkale, Turkey.  I saw many Greek and Roman ruins in West Europe, but the ruins in Ephesus and Hierapolis seem to be better preserved than those in West Europe.

The blue charms hanging in the tree are called evil eyes. It is believed by the near and middle easteners that the evil eye can protect the household against evil or misfortune.

Photos taken by Alex Yu