Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Start at the magnificent
Süleymaniye Mosque
. From here, follow Şifahane and Molla Şemset-
tin Cami Sokaks down into the residential streets of the Molla Hüsrev district, currently undergoing
heavy restoration as part of the Süleymaniye Urban Regeneration Project. Veer right (west) when
you reach the small, sadly decrepit
Molla Gürani Mosque
. Built in the 12th century, this was
known as the Church of the Virgin Mary of Vefa before the Conquest. Opposite is a small Ottoman
cemetery.
Continue downhill past the cemetery until you hit Vefa Caddesi. Turning left, you will pass the re-
cently restored
Library of Atıf Efendı
(built 1741-42 and now occupied by one of İstanbul
University's Alumni Associations) and the famous
Vefa Bozacısı
- consider sampling a glass of
its
boza
drink. Continue straight ahead into the rundown alley and enter through the rear gate of the
pretty
Şehzade Mehmet Mosque
. If the gate is closed you will need to backtrack and make
your way down Dede Efedi Caddesi to the main entrance on Şehzadebaşı Caddesi.
After visiting the mosque, head west; you'll see remnants of the majestic Byzantine
Aqueduct
of Valens
to your right. Cross Atatürk Bulvarı and then head towards the aqueduct through the
scruffy park.
Passing a handsome Ottoman Revivalist building housing the
Fatih İtfaiye (Fire Station)
on
your left, head under the aqueduct and into the
Kadın Pazarı (Women's Bazaar)
on İtfaiye
Caddesi, a vibrant local local shopping precinct. If you are here around lunchtime, consider making a
stop at Fatih Damak Pide, Siirt Fatih Büryan or Sur Ocakbaşı. Finally continue up the hill to reach
the Byzantine
Monastery of Christ Pantokrator
.
