Balat is derived from the Greek word palation, which meaning “palace.” Because of its closeness to the Blaherna Palace on the city walls, the area was given this name. The Jews arrived here on Bayezid the 2nd’s invitation. The Jewish community of Istanbul has lived in Balat and Hasköy, which are located on the other side of the Golden Horn, since the 15th century. 

The remaining examples of Jewish homes may be seen throughout the area. These are usually three-story structures with narrow facades and projections on the second and third levels, such as bay windows. The Yanbol Synagogue lies on the right as you enter via the ancient Balat gate, as is the Ahrida Synagogue, which was constructed by Jews from Ohrid, Macedonia. The earliest synagogue in Balat is believed to be here, although the current building comes from the mid-nineteenth century. The first thing that comes to mind is Greek architecture. Because Greeks used to dwell in this area, the area is heavily influenced by Greek culture. When visiting Balat, be sure to stop by Fener Greek High School and the Orthodox Patriarchate in Istanbul. In the tiny cafés that open to the ancient buildings of Balat, you may also drink tea and go back in time. 

Workshop Head In Balat

It is both a woodworking studio and a retail outlet for the finished items. It’s also an Istanbul café where you may stop for a break throughout your Balat tour, as well as an event space featuring acoustic concerts, movie screenings, seminars, and yoga sessions. The wooden patterns that overflow from chair to table, from saucer to cheese cutting board are so attractive that you find yourself inside as you pass by the door. 

Balat Monologues Museum

The Monologues Museum, which was formerly housed at Yuvakimyon Girls’ High School but has now relocated to Mürselpaşa Street, is a remarkable piece of work that has breathed fresh life into Istanbul’s theater and performance art scene in recent years. Don’t let the name mislead you; this isn’t a museum. It’s a theatrical hall made from a three-story Balat house with a bay window that was restored. On each level, in each chamber, a 15-minute monologue is presented. There are a total of seven games, each of which is repeated four times. You are going from room to room, sitting on the floor, or resting against the wall, with a game guide and the players in your hand, observing the monologues. 

Balat Art House

It is one of the earliest workshops in Balat to produce handcrafted ceramics. Beyhan, the workshop’s proprietor, also offers classes to the attendees. Those who perform these things typically utilize traditional Balat homes as one-to-one models, from wall-mounted versions to magnets. 

1200 Degree Glass Workshop

1200 Degree Glass Workshop is a glass workshop with an open flame where you may work with glass, listen to the history of glass, and learn about glass-making methods, as well as a glass workshop with a coffee break. 

Balat’s Street Shops 

These are natural and adorable stores where you may get a variety of culinary items such as vinegar, jams, tarhanas, and sliced noodles. You’ll also find some fine restaurants along the way. It is a socially conscious company that is also concerned about the environment and human health. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the goods is donated to the Disabled People Foundation’s social assistance programs.