Balat: Private Tour History & Colors + Pottery and Ceramic Class
Description
Join us on a captivating tour through the historic neighborhoods of Balat and Fener. Discover vibrant streets filled with colorful houses, ancient churches, and iconic landmarks like the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church and the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Uncover the rich Greek, Jewish, and Ottoman heritage and enjoy the charm of Istanbul's most authentic districts. After this visit continue with ceramic and pottery class for 2 hours. Perfect for history lovers, photographers, and those seeking a unique side of Istanbul! This tour have a maximum of 12 to 13 people.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Sveti Stefan Church, also known as the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church, is a unique cast-iron church located in the Balat district of Istanbul. Built in the late 19th century, it was prefabricated in Vienna and then transported to Istanbul, where it was assembled on-site. The church features Neo-Gothic architectural elements and is one of the few surviving metal churches in the world. It serves as a significant religious and cultural landmark for the Bulgarian community in Istanbul.
St. George's Cathedral, located in the Balat district of Istanbul, is the principal church of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. Serving as the spiritual center of the Eastern Orthodox Church, it has been the seat of the Patriarch since the early 17th century. The cathedral features a modest exterior but houses an ornate interior with important religious relics, including icons, patriarchal thrones, and relics of saints. It remains an active place of worship and a significant site for Orthodox Christianity.
It seems like you are referring to the Phanar Greek Orthodox College (Fener Rum Erkek Lisesi), often mistakenly called the "Red Church" due to its striking red brick structure. This historic school, located in the Fener district of Istanbul, was founded in 1454 and has served as one of the most prestigious Greek Orthodox educational institutions in the city. Its impressive red-brick facade, designed in the late 19th century, makes it one of the most recognizable landmarks in Fener. The school continues to function today, preserving the Greek Orthodox heritage in Istanbul.
In this art studio, we open our doors to art enthusiasts! We offer a unique experience with ceramics, pottery, sculpture, painting, and special workshops. Our studio welcomes art lovers of all ages, creating an inspiring space where creativity and art come together. We invite you to step into our world of art!"
In here our guests can follow our guide for some shopping and information about the bazaar. Also guests can have their own free time in here.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(2)
Our guide Tanner, chose the perfect time to show us Balat ! Such a quaint area. Well, I think what made it better is Tanner’s extensive knowledge of the area. The tour felt more than a nice stroll with a friend. I cannot recommend Nova Roma enough. I can assure that you will not be disappointed. Thank you Tanner for such wonderful day in your city. A city that you know so well . Hope to return soon! Best regards, Miriam
Second time in here for you so ı had to take you there. Balat is stunning area to visit and experience Turkish coffee on a hot sand. Hope to see you soon Miriam.
I had the most amazing experience with my Guide Taner. I felt like I was being shown around the city by the best of friends and most knowledgeable guide. He is both Professional yet friendly warm and helpful With all that I needed. My trip could not have Been the same same without Taner. He catered to my needs and customized my eternity according up my Likes and preferences, everyone I said the trip couldn’t get any better, he surprised me with even a more fun and exciting day the next morning. He showed me All the cool trendy neighborhoods , took Me shopping at best spots and we shared the most amazing Turkish cuisine all over the city . This by far has been my favorite travel yet, I’ve traveled a lot through Europe and Middle East , but Taner has given my trip to Istanbul a special flavor. This trip will forever be unforgettable thanks to Taner . I will be coming back again and I will most definitely be booking with Taner again and will be recommending him to all my family and friends visiting Istanbul this year
Thank you very much for all these. We had so much pleasure to have you in the city. İstanbul is here always waiting for you. 'Shantay, you stay'