Istanbul: Taksim to Galata Tower Levantine Heritage Tour
Description
Taksim Square & The Republic Monument
Our meeting point stands at the very heart of modern Istanbul. The Republic Monument, built in 1928, celebrates the birth of the Turkish Republic and honors Mustafa Kemal Atatürk a symbolic starting point for our walk through the city’s evolving identity.
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Taksim Maksemi (The Historical Water Distribution Center)
This modest stone building once served as the lifeline of the city, distributing water from the Belgrade Forest to Istanbul. The word “Taksim” itself comes from the Arabic “taqsim,” meaning “to distribute.”
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Aya Triada Greek Orthodox Church
One of the most magnificent Greek Orthodox churches in Istanbul, Aya Triada meaning “Holy Trinity” was consecrated in 1880. Its grand dome and twin bell towers mark the deep Levantine and Hellenic presence in Pera.
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Historical Passages of İstiklal Avenue
As we walk down İstiklal Avenue, we’ll pass through a labyrinth of elegant 19th century arcades. These passages once hosted embassies, cafes, and patisseries where Levantines, Armenians, and Europeans mingled the true cosmopolitan face of old Beyoğlu.
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Misir Apartment (The Egyptian Apartment)
A striking Art Nouveau landmark built in 1910 by Hovsep Aznavur, this building once housed embassies and later Istanbul’s cultural elite. Today, it’s home to art galleries and design studios where heritage meets creativity.
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Galatasaray High School
Founded in 1481 as an Ottoman palace school, Galatasaray is the oldest and most prestigious educational institution in Turkey. For centuries, it has been a meeting point of East and West, producing generations of influential thinkers.
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Hazzopulo Passage (Tea Break Stop)
One of Beyoğlu’s most charming spots, Passage offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s café culture. Let’s take a short tea break here, just as locals have done for over a century.
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St. Antoine Catholic Church
Built in 1912 by Italian architect Giulio Mongeri, St. Antoine is the largest Catholic church in Istanbul. It remains an active center for the city’s Catholic community and a quiet haven amid the urban chaos.
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Santa Maria Draperis Church
Hidden behind a simple façade, this 18th-century church belongs to the Franciscan order. It reflects the long history of Levantine Catholic life in Beyoğlu.
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Narmanlı Han Built in the early 19th century, Narmanlı Han once housed the Russian Embassy. Later, it became a cultural hub for artists and writers one of the few places that kept the soul of Beyoğlu alive.
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Galata Mevlevi Lodge (Exterior Visit)
The Mevlevi Lodge, founded in 1491, was one of Istanbul’s most important centers of Sufi culture. From its courtyard, we’ll explore stories of music, poetry, and spiritual devotion that shaped Ottoman Istanbul.
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Galata Tower (Optional Entrance)
Our final stop Galata Tower has watched over Istanbul since the 14th century. Originally built by the Genoese, it offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Entrance is optional and can be arranged separately.