Private Jewish Heritage Half-Day Tour

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Duration: 4h
Location: Istanbul, Turkey | Istanbul, Turkey


Category: Private Tours

Highlights:
Historical sights & culture of Jewish influence in Istanbul
Old Jewish quarter of Galata & its iconic tower
Several eminent synagogues in the city including Ashkenaz
Extensive historical narrative at the Jewish Museum
Private tour for dialogue tailored to your interests

Inclusions:
Guided tour of Istanbul
Admission fees
Roundtrip transportation to and from your Istanbul city center hotel
Live commentary provided in English

Description:

For centuries a Jewish population has lived in Istanbul; hear some of that history while exploring famous sights pertaining to Judaism. From old residential areas, to long-standing synagogues your expert guide takes you on a tour of Jewish highlights, providing fascinating insight along the way.

Begin in Galata—an ancient residential quarter in the center of the city. Long popular with Jewish communities, see the commanding tower dominating the skyline and hear how it has become a symbol for the city as a whole. At Ashkenaz Synagogue, learn more about the inner workings of this place of worship and ceremony, and its role as a civic hub.

In the Beyoglu district visit a former synagogue, now a museum. Here, learn more about the Turkish Jewry culture and its relationship with Istanbul, especially intriguing is the harmony accorded between them and the local Muslim population.

Perhaps the most illustrious stop on the tour is Balat where you observe the Star of David still displayed on many buildings. The Ahrida Synagogue is one of the city’s oldest and where the famous Rabbi—Sabbatai Zevi—once came to pray. A final stop at the Etz Ahayim Synagogue in a multi-cultural district serves as an idyllic reminder to the peaceful coexistence in the city of members of multiple faiths and religions.