Available as a half or full day experience.
After the Turkish conquest of Constantinople, the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet encouraged immigration into the city to increase the population. As a result, the Ottoman government facilitated the settlement of Jewish communities in Hasköy on the banks of the Golden Horn. Immigrants from Spain and Portugal were settled in Balat, where an earlier community (called Romaniots) from the Byzantine period existed. During the late Ottoman period, many Turkish Jews moved into the Galata neighborhood and built several synagogues there. The tour is focused on these three neighborhoods to uncover the past and present of the Turkish Jewish community, historically considered an integral and enriching part of the country. Sultan Bayazid II famously said "You venture to call Ferdinand a wise ruler, he who has impoverished his own country and enriched mine!"
In this tour you will travel in time, see the picturesque old streets, and visit the Ottoman Baroque style Ahrida Synagogue and Quincentennial Museum of Turkish Jews.
Fine print: You need a permit from the Chief Rabbinate to visit the Ahrida Synagogue. To obtain it, we will need your passport copies. We recommend booking this well in advance to allow enough time for processing.
Walking: moderate
- You will meet your guide at your hotel or at a location you prefer.
- Tour can be customized based on your specifications, travel plans and expectations.
What’s included
- A certified SRM guide
- Private chauffeured vehicle
- Permit to Ahrida Synagogue
- Admissions
- Fast track
Contact us for questions, prices, booking and customization.
