Highlights
Istanbul's Historical Neighborhood: Balat
Balat, which hosts many cultural differences, also hosts local and foreign tourists during the day. Balat, which has a charming atmosphere with its old buildings, friendly people and children running around in the streets, draws attention as one of the sweetest neighborhoods of Istanbul.
Located in Fatih district of Istanbul, right on the shores of the Golden Horn, Balat neighborhood is also neighboring Ayvansaray and Fener districts. In addition to its historical texture, it is one of the most favorite places for photographers because its view is also attractive.
Alleys and colorful buildings
Timeless houses, wooden buildings, buildings that adorn today's architecture with their colorful facades, children playing ball and jumping rope on the street, laundry laid out on ropes stretched between two houses, shopkeepers joking, neighbors chatting on the sidewalk...
As you stroll through the alleyways of Balat, you will feel as if you are experiencing a scene from a period series. It should also be noted that some series were filmed here. Recently; While the series İçerde and Çukur have made a big impact, some Turkish-made series on Netflix were also filmed in Balat. In Balat, which has a unique street architecture, you can capture beautiful shots with your camera or phone on the steep and long streets with stairs. While exploring the streets, you can also browse the auctioneers you will often encounter and participate in auctions if you wish.
By the way, if you are planning a trip to Balat, we recommend you to wear more sporty shoes instead of shoes or heels. The street floor made of large stones and very steep streets will make your feet very uncomfortable.
Authentic Cafes
The cold structure that we are used to in classic cafes is not so much in this neighborhood. Authentic chairs, stools and tables will greet you in any café you enter. Cast iron stoves, large bookcases, sitting groups that used to be in our homes and long wooden coffee tables placed in the middle of them. In Balat, where there are many cafes that will make you feel at home or even in a village environment as soon as you step inside, the friendly staff also adds peace to the environment.
Mosques dating back to Mimar Sinan
Home to 500 and even 600 year old mosques, Balat stands like a hand extended to us by history. Worshipping in the same place for centuries, the architecture and atmosphere of the mosques are quite impressive. Fethiye Museum Mosque, Gül Mosque, Ferruh Kethüda Mosque built by Mimar Sinan, Hazreti Cabir and Hirami Ahmed Pasha Mosque are among the main mosques of Balat.
Byzantine churches
The churches, which have never been destroyed and have been preserved with great care, are one of the most visited spots by Christian citizens and tourists. Also, if you like taking photos, "Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate" will take its place among the most beautiful photo albums of your gallery with its location and exterior. The patriarchate, built with tile-colored stones specially brought from France, crowns the landscape with its magnificent structure.
