Halic – the area surrounding the Golden Horn, which belongs to the Historical Peninsula, is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful parts of Istanbul. The Golden Horn, which serves as the gateway to the Bosphorus, is so named due to its horn-shaped shape and the fact that its waters are cast in gold, especially at sunset. The Golden Horn with its natural harbor once served as an important port where merchant ships of the Ottoman and Eastern Roman Empires anchored. Now it is a multicultural area with mosques, churches, synagogues and ancient schools, preserving traces of more than a thousand years of Istanbul's history. In addition, modern attractions are concentrated here, giving the city a new charm.
The former industrial zones, which are now unrecognizable, and the international events held in them complement the historical significance of this territory with the spirit of relevance and creativity. It has become a new magnet of the cultural life of the city after the reconstruction of the buildings of the 600-year-old shipyard on the coast of the Golden Horn. It is here that the famous autumn event, the Contemporary Istanbul exhibition, takes place. It shows the best examples of contemporary art presented by local and foreign galleries, cultural institutions, creative projects and individual artists. The event, which art lovers gather for from September 28 to October 1, allows you to see popular works, appreciate the transformation of an old industrial site and enjoy the view of the charming coast of the Golden Horn.
Thanks to all of the above, visiting this picturesque area is like traveling through a long Istanbul history. We offer you three different routes along one of the most beautiful parts of Istanbul – narrow colorful streets facing the Golden Horn.
Fener-Balat: walk among the riot of colors
Balat and Fener, the neighboring districts of the Historical Peninsula, are considered one of the most remarkable in Istanbul due to the rich historical heritage and magnificent architecture. Centuries have passed, people have changed, but these adjacent areas have always maintained their identity.
The steep streets of Balat, lined with old houses with bay windows, are distinguished by an amazing architectural appearance, in which the past and the future merged. Today, history and modernity are combined on these colorful winding streets, where cafes and designer shops of several generations coexist with traditional tea courtyards and craft workshops. In Balat and Fener, there are also unusual second-hand goods stores, antique shops and auction houses at every turn. Walking around Balat, you will meet many interesting buildings. Here are just a few of them: the synagogues of Ahrid and Yambol, the hamam (Turkish bath) of Kuchuk Mustafa Pasha and the magnificent Bulgarian Church of St. Stephen (Iron Church). The latter is located right on the embankment and is the only Orthodox church in the world made entirely of cast iron. The cast structures of this stunning building were made in Vienna, Austria. Then they were loaded onto ships and taken to Balat, where the building was assembled in parts on the shore of the Golden Horn. The church, built in the shape of a cross, opened to parishioners in 1898. In total, 500 tons of iron were spent on its construction.
Fener, a charming neighbor of Balat, belongs to the most popular areas of Istanbul, distinguished by such impressive buildings as the "Great School of the Nation", the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople and the Patriarchal Church of St. George. The "Great School of the Nation", one of the most spectacular examples of architecture of the XIX century, located on the hills of Fener, is considered the most majestic building on the shore of the Golden Horn. Locals call it the "red school", as the castle-like building is made of Marseilles brick.
Pierre Loti Hill: a beautiful panorama of the Golden Horn
There is a famous place on the Historical Peninsula – Pierre Loti Hill, named after the pseudonym of the French writer Julien Viot. From the hill there are amazing views of the ancient Istanbul architecture, carefully preserved since the XIX century. The ascent of this beautiful hill and the views of Istanbul from its top are breathtaking. You can get here directly by cable car or by stairs. The amazing panorama of the Golden Horn is equally impressive both during the day and after sunset. Located on a hill, the cafe is popular among locals who drink tea here, talk and enjoy the view.
From ancient barracks to the largest Turkish library
Rami Library is one of the new attractions of the district. The library complex is located in Istanbul's Eyupsultan district in the Rami Barracks building, built in the XVIII century. After restoration, repair and construction works carried out with the preservation of the original layout and materials, the Rami Library welcomes visitors with a green zone and enlightens them in a unique cultural and artistic environment.
The Rami Library, located on an area of 22 hectares, is the largest in Istanbul and has virtually no equal in all of Europe. Visitors of all ages are welcome here, offering children's literature (including for the youngest), literature for youth and adult audiences, as well as digital library services and various specialized libraries. The complex attracts attention not only with its numerous departments, but also with the opportunity to spend time in nature thanks to 51 thousand square meters of landscaped territory. The Rami Library has an artificial pond surrounded by trees, as well as hiking and cycling trails laid out among the magnificent green expanses.
The Rami Library was also the first in Turkey to be certified by Biosphere, confirming its status as an environmentally responsible museum. The certificate was issued as evidence of full compliance with the principles of sustainability, including in the restoration and construction of infrastructure. It is noted that the complex enriches the local cultural life and preserves ancient works and sources for future generations.
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