This sleepy and rather socially conservative area of
Istanbul hosts a small but thriving Jewish community,
the patriarchate of the Eastern Orthodox Church, and
some of the most beautiful churches and Christian art
in the world. Much of what’s most interesting to
witness in Fener and Balat sits between the surviving
ancient city walls of Constantinople and the serene
shores of the Golden Horn. Despite the many splendid
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sights, historic attractions, stunning vistas, and
warm Turkish welcome, the area remains largely
unperturbed by the tourist trade that characterizes
the atmosphere in nearby Sultanahmet and around the
Grand Bazaar. Travelers that like to explore off the
beaten track will reap big rewards for making the
effort to visit this low-key part of town.
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