Fener & Balat: Istanbul’s Most Colorful Neighborhoods

 

 

The Private Fener Greek High School, also known as the Phanar Greek Orthodox College, was once the school for important Greek (Phanariotes) and other Orthodox families in the Ottoman Empire. This amazing building was designed by the Greek architect Konstantinos Dimadis. Thanks to its impressive look and red bricks brought from Marseille, France, the school is also known as The Red Castle.

Even though the visitors can't go inside the school, it's still impressive to see it standing proudly, almost looking over the Fener neighbourhood.

 

Merdivenli Yokuş Evleri is a steep street lined with colorful houses. Walking here feels like stepping back in time to the Ottoman era! You'll also find cute cafes along the way. It is an interesting spot if you're already nearby. It is also very close to the Colorful Stairs.

 

The Patriarchal Cathedral Church of St. George is Istanbul's main Eastern Orthodox cathedral. While the church has been rebuilt many times throughout history, Patriarch Timothy II famously rebuilt and made it larger in 1614. Inside, you'll find a very well-kept church, and its patriarchate throne dates all the way back to the 5th century

 

The Bulgarian St. Stephen Church, also known as the Bulgarian Iron Church, is a Bulgarian Orthodox church famous for its unique construction. It was built from prefabricated cast iron parts in a Neo-Byzantine style. An Austrian company constructed the church in Vienna in 1896, and it was put together in Istanbul's Fener neighbourhood in 1898. This is a truly unique and beautiful church, standing right across the Golden Horn.

Saint Mary of the Mongols is the only Byzantine church in Istanbul that was never turned into a mosque and has always remained open to worshippers. Located near the impressive Phanar Greek Orthodox College, it's a worthwhile visit if you're already in the area.

The church gets its name "Mongols" because in 1281, it was commissioned by the Byzantine princess Maria Palaiologina, who was the widow of a Mongol Khan, Abaqa. She also built a nunnery here and lived there until her death.

 

 

Historically, this was the old Jewish bazaar of Balat. Today, it is a shopping area filled with antique shops, restaurants, and all kinds of small, unique stores. If you enjoy antique shops and are in the area, it might definitely be worth your visit.

 

The Balat Toy Museum is a small but impressive museum filled with vintage toys. You can even find a traditional Karagöz and Hacivat shadow theater inside. It's especially a fun visit if you have children, and the museum sometimes holds workshops.

 

The Colorful Stairs stand out with their rainbow-colored steps, charming old buildings, and cozy cafes. It's perfect for exploring on foot, grabbing a coffee, and taking pictures in one of Istanbul's most beautiful traditional neighborhoods. A great spot to discover if you're already nearby!