The area which is surrounded by the Byzantine city walls, the Golden Horn and the Marmara Sea is Fatih, the Historical Peninsula. Facing the district of Eyüp in the north, the Golden Horn in the northeast, the Marmara Sea in the south, Zeytinburnu in the west and Bayrampaşa in the northwest, Fatih is a peninsula surrounded by the sea from three directions. This area, which has harbored many civilizations throughout its thousands of years of history, is currently the most significant historical, touristic and commercial center of İstanbul.
Although it is usually considered one of the most conservative districts of Istanbul due to the religious community of Çarşamba, Fatih is actually quite cosmopolitan with a variety of things to do and see. Coinciding with historical Constantinople, it is now accepted as being the absolute must-visit area in the city.
History of Fatih
As a transition point between Asia and Europe, the area has been home to various civilizations since the paleolithic, neolithic and bronze eras. The first historical findings about the Historical Peninsula belong to the neolithic era and they were unearthed during the Marmaray excavations in Yenikapı. The neolithic era, which corresponds to about 6500 B.C., was when mankind first engaged in agriculture, started growing crops and tamed animals. The alphabet, mathematics, the art of architecture and the approach of building cities were all firsts realized during this era.
The excavations under Sultanahmet Square in Sarayburnu also resulted in findings which date back to 5000-3000 B.C. being unearthed. Under the light of these findings, it is safe to say that the area has been a point of settlement for 8500 years.
Places to Visit in Fatih
The Grand Bazaar
One of the largest and oldest covered markets worldwide, the Grand Bazaar attracts a huge number of visitors daily. It has a legacy as the most colorful, chaotic and most fascinating place in the city offering a wide range of goods, from jewelry, carpets and ceramics to food and clothes. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, a day walking through the shops will surely awaken all your senses and reveal the romantic atmosphere of old Istanbul accompanied by a dose of authenticity.
The Egyptian Bazaar
Located in the Eminönü quarter of the district, the Egyption or Spice Bazaar is filled with the scent of the exotic east. Stroll through the market to find some vividly colored spices, dried herbs and fruits, jams, nuts, coffee and Turkish delights.
Sultanahmet
This is probably the best place for sightseeing. Sultanahmet, hosting the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque, among others, will amaze you with its historic treasures and incredible pieces of architecture. After visiting the main attractions, stop by one of the excellent Turkish hamams.
Fatih is a great attraction for the Arabs, because of its ancient history, and as it is currently considered the heart of Istanbul. Due to the fact that the Arab presence increased significantly, the number of Arab shops, restaurants, cafes and stores increased, as well. Even banners are written in Arabic in this district. The region is characterized by its low prices, especially in clothing. It is considered a suitable commercial market for the Arabs, because it has appropriate and conservative Arab clothing.
Here are some of the properties we have in Fatih:
