Extended Itinerary — May 25-28, 2012
Days 1-5 | Days 6-10 | Days 11-14
May 25: Pergamum, Troas
Travel north to Pergamum (modern Bergama), a spectacular site whose acropolis includes the Temple of Trajan, ruins of a world-famous library, as well as a massive theater carved into the steep hillside. Also visit the Red Basilica and the Asklepion in the valley below. Drive to Troas on the shore of the Aegean Sea to view the recent excavations and stand on the beach where Paul set sail for Europe after seeing the Macedonian vision (Acts 16:6-10). Continue to Canakkale for a beautiful view of the Dardanelles straits. Overnight in Canakkale.
May 26: Troy, Bursa
Explore legendary Troy and see an enormous reconstruction of the wooden horse made famous by Homer in The Iliad. Travel south of the Sea of Marmara to the city of Bursa to visit the Green Mosque, the Green Mausoleum, the Grand Mosque, the Grand Bazaar with the historical Silk Bazaar, and if time permits, the Muradiye Complex. Overnight in Bursa.
May 27: Nicea, Istanbul
Tour Nicea (modern Iznik) to see the ruins of the Senate House where Constantine convened the First Church Council in 325 (producing the important Nicean Creed), Haghia Sophia Cathedral (site of the Seventh Church Council in 787), the ancient Roman theatre and the walls of the old city. Return to Istanbul to shop at the Grand Bazaar and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus between Europe and Asia. Conclude the tour with a farewell banquet and evening worship service. Overnight in Istanbul.
May 28: Return to U.S.
Return to New York City (JFK).