We have a short drive to Balat first.It was inhabited in the 15th century by Sefaradic Jews who were exiled from Spain and Portugal.Balat remained as a jewish quarter until 1940s.Its characteristic houses and charming atmosphere atract more visitors every day.We visit Ahrida Synagogue there.It was built in the 15.century by a community who arrived from Ohrid,Macedonia.There are still some wall paintings can be seen today.It has been recently restored. Then we drive to Taksim Square.İstiklal Avenue streches from Taksim square to Galata.It is surrounded by shops,cafes,restaurants,art galleries and late Ottoman period buildings with neo- classic and neo-gothic architecture.We continue along the street to Galata.It was setteled by the colony of Genoa in the 13th century.İt has been a cultural and commercial hub of the city since then.We visit Galata tower there.It was built in 1348 AD by Genoese as part of defensive walls.Tower was the highest building of the city and named as ”Tower of Christ”.After conquest of Constantinople,Ottomans used it to spot the fires in the city.70 Mt tall tower dominates skyline of İstanbul today.We continue to Neve Şalom Synagogue.It means oasis of peace.Its the biggest shrine of Jewish community in Galata and the most active one.Rituals such as Brit milah(circumcisions),Bar/Bat mitzvah(entry into adolescence),weddings and services are held in the synagogue.Then we pass on to Ashkenaz synagogue.It was built by Austrians in the early 20 th. century.It is the only active Ashkenaz synagogue in İstanbul.It has a blend of european and orientalist archietecture.Then we walk down to famous Kamondo stairs and meet our bus and return to hotel.
