One of the more helpful topics of the cultural training we had before this tour began was a brief explanation of certain aspects of Islam. They touched upon the fact that there is an audible call to prayer. It happens four times a day: morning, afternoon, sunset, and evening. What they did not manage to convey is that it is loud! From my hotel room I can hear the call loud and clear and there is not a mosque within several blocks. Upon closer inspection one discovers that most minarets are equipped with speakers of some sort, and trust me you do not want to be under one of those minarets when the call happens! Aside from the volume, we have yet to find out if the call is performed live or if it is a recording. Regardless the call is actually beautiful to listen to helps add to the charm and mystique of being in Istanbul.

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