The Top 10 Things To Do And See In Cihangir And Ukurcuma Istanbul

Cihangir and Çukurcuma are two neighbourhoods in Istanbul with historical and cultural richness. Apart form being well-known for antiques shops and cafes, the neighbourhoods offer art galleries, museums and traditional Turkish baths (known as hamam). Check out the following list to make sure you get the most out of your trip in Cihangir and Çukurcuma.

1. Cihangir Mosque

Mosque

Cihangir Mosque is situated in the midst of small houses and buildings in Cihangir, and inspired the name of the district itself. First built in wood in 1559, Cihangir was used to commemorate the son of Süleyman. After a fire in 1874, it was reconstructed in another architecture style and is now made of stone. Despite not being a large mosque, Cihangir Mosque allows you to oversee the magnificent view of the Bosphorus. With its four great pillars and huge arch windows, the mosque is instantly recognisable on the Cihangir skyline.

2. Orhan Kemal Museum

Museum

With a collection of old photos, the complete set of the first editions of his books and his personal belongings, Orhan Kemal Museum is a paradise for Kemal’s fans. It even has a statue of Kemal’s head and displays his room with the furniture he used. Orhan Kemal, famous for being an activist and voicing out political opinion in the 20th century, published a number of books, many of which have been republished in English and other languages. Dedicated to Turkish literature, the museum also explores the lives and works of other Turkish writers, if you are not so interested in only Kemal.

Antique shops

If you are an antiques lover, you have to visit Çukurcuma! With dozens of antiques shop offering everything from retro suitcases to classic oil paintings to old bathtubs, you are bound to find the perfect addition to your home. Here are some recommended shops:
A la Turca

A la Turca is home to Ottoman art history, housing a wide range of carpets, textiles and furnitures.

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