The Beyoglu area of Istanbul is famous nationwide for its modern vibes entwined with an intriguing historical background. Sitting in European Istanbul, next to the Golden Horn, Beyoglu presents another face, away from the Sultanahmet district with the UNESCO World Heritage sites that people flock worldwide to see.
Previously called Pera until the 20th century, the district includes smaller neighbourhoods, all of which are a delight to explore. In addition, Beyoglu commands high prices per square meter on the housing market, but home buyers tap into an authentic district with much to offer.
About the Beyoglu Area of Istanbul
History of Beyoglu
Although the history stretches back centuries, the Genoese and Venetian periods sparked international recognition, as merchants worldwide and European traders flocked to trade goods. However, things changed when the Ottomans invaded in 1453. The Genoese sided with the Byzantine Empire.
Although they were allowed to stay in Pera, their rule and dominance were replaced. By the 19th century, Pera was still a central trading point for merchants. Still, other countries began to house their consulates there, giving Pera multicultural vibes, where cultures entwined to give birth to new ideas and living standards.
Everything thrived, including fashion, culture, transport, theatre, education, and cinema. Modernisation made places like the historical Sultanahmet district look old and out of date. Even Sultan Abdulmecid moved from Topkapi Palace into the newly built Dolmabahce Palace near Besiktas.
When the Ottoman Empire collapsed and the new Turkish Republic was formed, Pera's name changed to Beyoglu. However, it gradually declined until the 1980s, when it quickly replaced the prestigious reputation. At the turn of the century, the council invested much into roads and pavements, modernising and restoring historic buildings. Hence, Beyoglu once again became known as the new Istanbul.
Nightlife and Lively Atmospheres
Both visitors and residents enjoy restaurants, bars, and clubs once the sun goes down. Whether you want fine top-notch dining, traditional Turkish cuisine, a quiet sit-down jazz bar or a club with heavy metal bands, after-dark choices will always be accommodated. Places like Vikro Levi, Cumhuriyet Meyhanesi, Hazzopulo Winehouse and Pano have prestigious reputations as wine houses. Other pubs centre themselves around Tunnel Passage and Nevizade Street.
At the same time, other famous places include Nu Pera, Kemanic, Maksim, 360, and Andon. Asmalimescit Street features Turkish restaurants and bars. In contrast, the fish market is the place to head for seafood. Also, watch out for the street food vendors and international brand names like McDonald's, Burger King, and Domino's.
Istiklal Street and Pedestrian Avenue
The beating heart is the 1.6-mile-long Istiklal Avenue, which thousands of people walk up and down daily. Various Turkish and international brand-name shops and trendy boutiques line both sides. Still, for tourists, an interesting aspect is the 19th—and 20th-century buildings on either side featuring Art Nouveau and Neoclassical architecture. The other main feature, the historical red tram, often appears in travel magazines as the local mascot. The avenue is also home to the 15th-century Galata High School, which has produced some of Turkey's most outstanding achievers.
Flower Passage
This small gathering of pubs and restaurants sits within a narrow building that was initially built as a theatre but burned in a fire. The landmark was rebuilt to feature shops. The name Flower Passage was earned when people flocked from Russia during the 1917 revolution, and women sold flowers in small shops. In 1988, authorities restored and opened bars and restaurants; during the weekends, it gets hectic.
The 5-star Pera Palace Hotel
Visit the Pera Palas Hotel for a refreshment break and savour its nostalgic 19th-century history. Built to host Orient Express passengers and owned by the Jumeirah chain, the hotel hosted high-dignity European visitors because it was Turkey's first hotel to install electricity and hot running water. Now under Turkish law protection because of its cultural heritage, Agatha Christie penned her famous novel, The Orient Express, here.
Galata Whirling Dervish Museum
This former Mawlawi house was home to whirling Sufism dervishes who follow an ancient sect of Islam founded in the 13th century. The museum section displays artefacts, but visitors can buy tickets to their Sema ritual performances. This is where the whirling dervishes perform certain moves to music to achieve a state of consciousness that is at one with God.
French Street
Visit French Street or Cezayir Street for several restaurants and bars with live music. The charming pedestrian lane known for Parisian-inspired atmospheres is lined with colourful facades, wrought-iron balconies, and cobblestone paths. Cosy cafes and trendy restaurants offer blended Turkish hospitality and French flair, with live music and artistic evening performances.
Misir Gallery
Misir Apartmani, a prominent historic building on Istiklal Avenue, has hosted many famous people. Translating into "Egypt Apartment," the nouveau architecture dates from 1910. While its former role hosted dignitaries, the building is now a leading contemporary gallery.
Saint Anthony of Padua Church
The Saint Anthony church highlights diverse religions because the church still performs Christian services on Sundays. While the exterior highlights early 19th-century architectural trends, the French neo-gothic interior style is a humble but majestic dedication to Istanbul's Christian community. Saint Anthony of Padua Church is Istanbul's most prominent Catholic church, and outside of services, people can enter to see the interior architecture, pray, and light a candle. Pope John preached here for ten years until he became pope.
Galatasaray Hamam
This hamam, built in 1481, sits within a mosque compound. Throughout history, the hamam served Galatasaray Liseli students and locals still use it today. The Yanasma welcomes customers who undress in private rooms and put on a pestemal before heading into the steam room to lie on the marble slab for the massage. Customers can relax at their pleasure after the steaming and soaping experience with a traditional glass of Turkish tea.
Pera Museum for Orientalist Paintings
Situated near the Misir Apartmani, the Pera Museum earns fame because of the "Tortoise Trainer" painting by Osman Hamdi Bey that in 2004 sold for a staggering 3.5 million USD. However, this private collection has other historical and modern pieces that delight even novices and enthusiasts. Pera in Tepebasi was founded in 2005 by the Suna and İnan Kirac Foundation and focuses on Orientalism in 19th-century art but is also interested in education and educational programs.
Galata Tower for Panoramic Views
The seventy-metre-high, 14th-century Galata tower is perfect for 360-degree views over the Bosphorus and Istanbul skyline. The Genoese building, which means the tower of Christ in Latin, sits a short distance from the Galata Bridge. Including nine stories, the 14th-century first tower suffered massive damage during a fire in 1831. However, in 1960, tourism officials replaced wooden interior features with concrete. Daytime views from the platform are the best, or buy a ticket to their Turkish night shows, although the night view isn't as good.
Taksim Square and the Independence Statue
At the top of Istiklal Avenue, the Independence Statue is a local landmark and a popular place to take photos. The figure, built by Italian Sculptor Pietro Canonica, depicts Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founding father of the modern-day Turkish Republic, alongside the men who helped him.
Istanbul Modern Museum
Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, highlighting modern and contemporary art, was initially housed in a warehouse on the Bosphorus in Karaköy. In 2018, they moved temporarily to a new location in Beyoğlu while its permanent home was being constructed. The new building, designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, opened in May 2023. The permanent collection highlights modern Turkish art, tracing its development from the early 20th century. They host international exhibitions, collaborating with global artists.
Galata Port and Beautiful Views
Galataport symbolises maritime heritage with vibrant urban life. Whether you're arriving by cruise ship or simply strolling along the Bosphorus, Galataport revitalises the gateway to the city. Welcoming cruise ships from around the world, the underground cruise terminal keeps the waterfront open and accessible while maintaining functionality. Numerous restaurants, cafes, shops, and the museum mentioned above make this a great place to hang out.
Ağa Hammam in Cihangir
Ağa Hammam is a historically significant Turkish bath in the vibrant Cihangir area. Built-in 1454, the Turkish bath was originally constructed during the reign of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror and initially intended exclusively for the Sultan and his sons, later opening to the public. The architecture and design reflect the classic Ottoman style, with a domed roof, marble interiors, and distinctive spaces for different stages of bathing. The Turkish bath is ideal to end the day sightseeing since the relaxing nature eliminates all the hustle and bustle of city life.
Banks Street - Financial Center of the Ottoman Empire
Bankalar Caddesi (Banks Street), in the Galata quarter, was the financial heart of the Ottomans in the 19th and early 20th centuries and featured major banks, insurance companies, and financial institutions. Notable establishments included the Ottoman Bank (founded in 1856), which later became the Central Bank and branches of international banks. These days, Bankalar Avenue showcases European-style architecture, mainly Neoclassical and Deco designs, reflecting the influence of Western bankers and architects. This is also the location of SALT Galata, a contemporary museum. Also, look out for the unique 19th century Camondo Stairs.
The Tunel
Opened on January 17, 1875, the Tünel is the second-oldest underground railway in the world, following the London Underground (1863). Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for an efficient way to explore the city, this historic funicular is worth experiencing. The Tünel stations are in Karaköy (near the Galata Bridge) and Tünel Square, a short walk from Istiklal Avenue. The Tünel helps avoid the steep climb between Karaköy and Beyoğlu, especially for those with mobility challenges.
Popular Neighbourhoods
Karakoy: Artistic Karakoy has a dual personality with the new modern architecture along the Bosphorus side of Karakoy towards the Tophane area, contrasting with vendors and fishmongers toward the Halic Bay area. Karakoy is Istanbul's hippest district, with cool cafes, chic restaurants, galleries, and stunning views. Young Turks with an international background brought a stylish sensibility to Karakoy and essentially turned the community feel around.
Cihangir: In this part, artists, writers, and actors love the area's culture and laid-back bohemian lifestyle. This authentic neighbourhood near Taksim Square features brightly coloured stucco facades, vintage stores, boutiques, cafes, galleries, and antique shops. Cihangir also attracts many ex-pats looking to move to Istanbul.
Cukurcuma: Cukurcuma neighbourhood, set back from Istiklal Avenue, has many claims to fame. Firstly, roughly 100 antique shops sell quirky items which are interesting to rummage through if you want to buy original souvenirs. Secondly, expect lots of cats hanging around on every corner. Finally, the neighbourhood is where Turkey's most famous male author, Orhan Pamuk, set up his Museum of Innocence.
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