Historical areas of Istanbul

Istanbul is a magnificent city with a rich historical and cultural heritage, located where the Asian and European continents meet. Some districts of Istanbul have a very old history and have hosted civilizations. Continue reading this article to learn more about the historical districts of Istanbul.

The ancient city has many different views, from the Maiden’s Tower to the Prince Islands, from the Historical Peninsula to its 7 hills. The civilizations of Istanbul’s past have left great legacies to Istanbul’s present. Istanbul, which was once the favorite city of states such as the Eastern Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman states and the capital of some of them, is now the most populous city of the modern Republic of Turkey.

So, where are the historical places in Istanbul today? Which are the distinguished districts of Istanbul from its past and oldest settlements to the present day? Discover the historical districts of Istanbul…

Eminönü

Eminönü, one of the oldest settlements in Istanbul, is also a culturally and historically very rich district. Eminönü, which is a point of attraction for local and foreign tourists who come to visit the city, includes iconic places such as Süleymaniye Mosque, Beyazıt Square, Vefa High School and Spice Bazaar.

Cağaloğlu

Cağaloğlu district, which hosts the historical Cağaloğlu Bath, attracts attention with Gülhane Park. There are many museums and historical buildings in the region. Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern are among the most important historical buildings. The lively streets of the neighborhood are full of various hotels and restaurants.

Çemberlitaş

Çemberlitaş district takes its name from the Çemberlitaş Column located in its center. Çemberlitaş, where there are many historical buildings and hotels and restaurants in these buildings, also includes historical buildings such as the Şerefiye Cistern.

Galata

In Galata, which was a colony of the Genoese in history, there is the Galata Tower and walls dating back to the Genoese. There are also many historical churches, synagogues and mosques in the Galata district. Galata, one of the most notable tourist districts in Istanbul, is one of the lively districts of Istanbul with its popular shops and bars.

Karaköy

Located at a unique point where the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn intersect, Karaköy takes its name from the Karay Turks who lived in this region in the past. Karaköy hosts Istanbul’s historical port and shipyard, as well as many offices and business centers. With Galataport AVM, another modern shopping center and attraction area has been created in the region.

Ortaköy

Ortaköy has become one of the interesting places in Istanbul over time. Its popularity has gradually increased, especially as it is one of the places where many photos are shared on social media by tourists. There are many churches, synagogues and mosques in Ortaköy, where Greeks and Jews lived in the past. Ortaköy, with its unique Bosphorus view, is one of the meeting points especially for lovers today.

Prince’s Islands

Located off the Anatolian Side of Istanbul, the Prince Islands are known for their ostentatious mansions where the Ottoman elite spent their summer holidays in the past. Today, it is a frequent destination for those who want to have a holiday without going too far from the city. Aya Yorgi Church and Azap Hill on Büyükada and the Seminary on Heybeliada are known as notable places in the region.