When you walk through the streets of Istanbul, probably you will find yourself into some of the old neighbourhoods of the city.
Galata dates back to the ancient times. The 14th century Galata Tower is the landmark of the quarter. Galata attracted residents from different national and religious backgrounds through the centuries. That’s how there was created an urban morphology of monuments, commercial buildings and mansions reflecting European influence.
Another famous quarter is Eyup. Here we can find Eyup mosque and constructed next to the tomb of a Muslim saint, Ebu Eyyub el-Ensari. During the Middle ages a suburban settlement developed here, including many religious and public monuments as well as palaces and houses.
Balat is significant for the history of the Jews in Istanbul. Macedonian Jews brought to the city following the conquest and those who immigrated from Spain were settled here. There are many synagogues, churches, mosques and public baths. However, major fires changed the site frequently while some areas were reorganized or destroyed. Timber houses were reconstructed in masonry on an orthogonal street pattern.