Balat is a neighborhood that has been inhabited by various communities since the Byzantine period, undergoing numerous cultural exchanges throughout history. Its multicultural structure has left its mark on the lives, homes, streets, and even the flavors of the local people. The historic buildings of Balat carry traces of these periods, narrating the neighborhood's story.
In the interconnected neighborhoods of Fener and Balat, you can find numerous historical structures indicating the former presence of Jewish, Greek, Armenian, and Turkish communities. Therefore, each building carries a unique identity. For instance, if you see a three-story, narrow-fronted, bay-windowed, and colorful building, you can be sure that a Jewish family lived there in the past. As you wander the streets, you'll better understand the rich history and multiculturalism of the neighborhood. You may even see mosques, churches, or synagogues side by side or on the same street. Many buildings that were once churches or synagogues but later converted into mosques can also be found.
The name Balat is derived from the Greek word "palation," meaning "palace." During the Byzantine period, it housed Christians from various nations and cultures. In the 15th century, it became a Jewish neighborhood after Sephardic Jews fleeing from Spain were resettled there by Sultan Bayezid II. The settlement of Sephardic Jews in the area also attracted the Jewish community, thus increasing the Jewish population in the region. This historical process has shaped the cultural mosaic of the area and has continued to influence it to this day.