The fascinating area of Fener and Balat, located just off the Golden Horn and a few kilometres down from the Spice Bazaar are great for a day visit – venture from historical sites into these fascinating local areas.
Fener was a Greek neighbouthood where well to do Greeks lived from 17-20th century until the Turkish War of Independence. Fener is the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople known locally as as Fener Rum Patrikhanesi. Next area long is the former Jewish neighbourhood of Balat. This wonderful local area is oft photographed for its colourful Ottoman houses, in various states of restoration or ruin. Browse through antique and brick a brac shops, trendy designers and preloved clothing of varying eras, the smells of the local bakeries and borekci will entice you to stop for a break of cay or coffee. Little cafes, like Mitis, serve declicious home made manti (Turkish ravioli) and Turk Khavesi.
The area is best visited on a Sunday or Tuesday – the day of the local market with abundant fruit and vegetables. Our visit takes around 5 hours, and we travel via the Spice Bazaar and on public transport so you really experience local life.
Speciality of Mitis – Matni – Turkish ravioli
Greek Lycee behind!
