Monthly Archives: June 2011

This is the sole survivor from the three Ashkenzai synagogues functioning in Istanbul until recently. The others were Or Hodeş in ‘Zülfükar Sokak’ and Tofre Begadim Synagogue in ‘Felek Sokak’. Built for Ashkenzasis of Austrian decent, it was opened on Roshana, the jewish New Year’s Eve, on 23 Semtember 1900. It’s still where Ashkenazi weddings and … Continue reading

Situated between ‘Felek Sokak’ and ‘Komondo Sokak’ in the district of Bereketzade, the synagogue was opened in 1894. An example of the 19th century eclectic style , it was closed in the 1960s due to a shrinking congregation. Restored in 1999, it began a new life as the Schneidertempel Arts Center. address: Galata / Beyoglu

Building of the church and the residential accommondation began in 1865 and was completed in 18 months. On 26 July 1967, Pope Paul VI paid a visit to the Armenian Catholic community in the company of its spiritual leader Archbishop Hovhannes Tcholakian, and worshipped here with a host of invited clerics. (Patriarchate Church) address: Sakızağacı, … Continue reading

Church of St. Antoine is designed in Italian Gothic style and dates from 1913. This red ricked affair replicates its ancestral model having been demolished to make way for Istiklal’s tramway. Franciscan monks inhabit the flanking buildings. Despite a rather unspectacular interior and poorly maintained stained glass Windows stemming the walls, the large pillars hosting … Continue reading

The Fascination of Marble Work. Fountain of  Tophane, built during the first half of the 18t centtury by  Sultan 1. Mahmut is a fascinating open square fountain with its elegant Stone carvings which give a plastic effect. Architecture is almost has been a second concem aside decoration. The Stone carvings of fruit trees in pots, … Continue reading