Any trip to Istanbul must of course include a visit to the city's world-famous landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower and Topkapi Palace. But the metropolis also contains more than its most famous monuments. With its rich and colorful past, Istanbul is packed with different neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics and experiences - also for tourists. And areas such as Yedikule and Samatya along the historic city walls are especially worth a visit if you want to experience a more local side of Istanbul.

Once home to emperors and later to various religious communities, Yedikule and Samatya are now cosmopolitan streets filled with small, cozy corner shops, historic mansions and traditional coffee houses (kahvehane). The neighborhoods are also marked by a rich meyhane culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations.

Travel through time at Istanbul's City Gates
The Yedikule Fortress (Seven Towers) is an obvious starting point for a walk along Istanbul's historic city walls. It dates back to the 5th century and was built during the Byzantine Empire, later expanded by the Ottomans. Here you can experience the dungeon, the armory, the treasury and the famous Golden Gate, where emperors were welcomed after victorious campaigns. From the fortress's passages between the towers, you also have beautiful views of the Sea of ​​Marmara and the Historical Peninsula.

From there, the trip can head towards Samatya, where several architectural gems await, such as the Church of Constantine and Helena, known for its elegant bell tower, and the remains of the Studios Monastery, later converted into the İmrahor Mosque, which provides a clear insight into the area's Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.

History, everyday life and hospitality in Samatya

When you arrive in Samatya, you are greeted by the historic square and the warm atmosphere of the neighborhood. Here, antique shops, cafes, restaurants and pastry shops are located side by side with old wooden houses, several of which now function as cozy cafes, often in the company of the neighborhood's friendly street cats.

Close to the old train station between Yedikule and Samatya is the Railway Workers' Church, which is today used by the Syriac faith community and reflects the neighborhood's connection to railway history.

Samatya also houses the Surp Kevork Armenian Church, one of Istanbul's oldest Armenian churches, as well as the St. Memas Church, both of which are clear symbols of the area's multicultural roots.

Once a small fishing village, the neighborhood is now known for its many restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy fresh fish, Turkish rakı, and classic meze such as topik and fiskebörek.

Om Türkiye

Türkiye is located on the Mediterranean Sea, connecting the Asian and European continents, which are divided by the famous Bosphorus Strait. The country has always been a hub for cultural exchange and is known for its varied climate. Türkiye continues to inspire visitors with its history, nature and gastronomy, which reflect the diversity of civilization over the centuries. Situated at the crossroads of cultures, Türkiye also has a special appreciation for art and culture, which unites tradition and modernity. The country's extremely dynamic range of shopping and entertainment also attracts visitors from all over the world. 

www.goturkiye.com