7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don’t Know About

7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Unassuming Roman Cistern at Yerebatan Street Leads to Ancient Underground Hammam

Nestled on Yerebatan Street, a seemingly ordinary entrance reveals the Basilica Cistern, a remarkable 6th-century structure initially designed as a water reservoir for Constantinople. Stepping inside, you're enveloped in an atmosphere steeped in history, with 336 marble columns creating a sense of grandeur and the space echoing with the past. This lesser-known gem is a testament to Byzantine architectural skill, its captivating features further enhanced by the discovery of an ancient underground hammam. While the more popular sights of Sultanahmet attract large crowds, this intriguing location offers a serene exploration of Byzantine ingenuity and historical remnants. It’s a compelling destination for those curious about Istanbul's hidden stories and those seeking an alternative, quieter perspective on the city’s rich past. Those willing to venture into this subterranean realm will be rewarded with a fascinating glimpse into a hidden facet of the city's history.

Tucked away on Yerebatan Street, a seemingly unremarkable entrance leads to a fascinating discovery – an ancient underground hammam nestled near the renowned Yerebatan Cistern. The cistern itself, a testament to 6th-century Byzantine engineering under Emperor Justinian I, initially served as a vital water source for the imperial palace, showcasing the era's advanced hydraulic know-how.

The sheer scale of the cistern, capable of holding roughly 80,000 cubic meters of water, is striking. It's supported by a forest of 336 marble columns, many of which were salvaged from older Roman structures, revealing a practical approach to construction prevalent during the Byzantine era. Among the most intriguing features are the Medusa heads, repurposed as column bases. While the precise purpose of these inverted or sideways sculptures is debated, they likely served a symbolic function, perhaps to ward off evil or simply to display the artistic flair of the era.

The ecosystem within the cistern is quite fascinating. The fish inhabiting the water aren't just decorative; they actively contribute to the preservation of the ancient structure by preventing algae and debris from accumulating, maintaining water clarity. There is speculation that secret passages within the cistern may connect to other historical areas of Istanbul, suggesting a wider underground network that served not just as a vital water source but potentially as a strategic route during times of conflict.

It appears that the cistern's design and function have influenced modern-day engineering solutions for water storage and gravity-fed systems, hinting at its lasting legacy in urban development. The discovery of an underground hammam nearby illustrates the multifaceted nature of these subterranean spaces. The bath served as a social and hygienic element in both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, further demonstrating the practical and social aspects integrated into this ancient structure.


The Yerebatan Cistern, with its ability to collect and filter rainwater using gravity, highlights the innovative approaches to water management of the time. While undergoing ongoing preservation efforts, it's encouraging that these attempts embrace both modern scientific knowledge and traditional craftsmanship, ensuring that this ancient marvel remains accessible and unaltered for generations to come.

Despite its magnitude and historical significance, it remains somewhat overshadowed by Istanbul's more popular attractions. This is a curious observation and underscores how some of the city's rich heritage can be hidden in plain sight, waiting to be discovered and appreciated.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Unassuming Roman Cistern at Yerebatan Street Leads to Ancient Underground Hammam
2. 7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Local Tea Garden Behind Soğukçeşme Street Offers Bosphorus Views Without Tourist Prices
3. 7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Ottoman Era Library Inside Nuruosmaniye Mosque Complex Still Lends Books
4. 7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Secret Passage Through Gülhane Park Reveals Underground Byzantine Water Channel
5. 7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Family Run Pottery Workshop in Çemberlitaş Offers Free Clay Making Classes
6. 7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Monthly Art Market in Caferağa Medresesi Features Local Artists and Musicians
7. 7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Small Door at Küçük Ayasofya Mosque Opens to Hidden Ottoman Garden Terrace

7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Local Tea Garden Behind Soğukçeşme Street Offers Bosphorus Views Without Tourist Prices

Hidden behind the charming Soğukçeşme Street, a local tea garden provides a peaceful escape with captivating views of the Bosphorus, all without the inflated prices often associated with tourist hotspots. Nestled amidst the picturesque Ottoman-era houses that line the area, this secluded spot offers a tranquil respite from the throngs of visitors that frequent Sultanahmet's better-known sites. It's a place to savor a cup of traditional Turkish tea while immersing yourself in the laid-back ambiance favored by local residents, who have long kept this gem under wraps. In a city that's become increasingly popular on the tourist map, encountering such tranquil spaces can truly enrich the journey of discovery, offering a genuine glimpse into the heart of Istanbul's vibrant culture and historical tapestry. While the Bosphorus views are a draw, this particular tea garden offers a taste of local life that is often overlooked in favor of better known areas.

Tucked away behind Soğukçeşme Street, a local tea garden provides a surprisingly affordable and scenic alternative to the pricier Bosphorus views often found in tourist traps. It's a testament to the fact that some of the best experiences in Istanbul can be found off the beaten path, hidden in plain sight.

The location, offering vistas of the Bosphorus, is quite intriguing from a landscape engineering perspective. It likely utilizes terraced gardens, a technique that optimizes both the scenic views and the microclimate conducive to healthy tea plant growth. This garden could be a study in itself on how environment plays a role in local agricultural practices.

The price difference compared to tea served at cafes near the Bosphorus waterfront is stark. While a cup of çay (Turkish tea) in a tourist-focused area might set you back a significant amount, here you can enjoy the same beverage for a fraction of the cost, sometimes even as little as a single Turkish Lira. It reinforces the importance of understanding the dynamic relationship between tourist pricing and local community consumption of goods.


The proximity of the tea garden to the Bosphorus raises questions about the unique characteristics of the tea grown and processed in this region. The cooler breezes and humidity from the Bosphorus could possibly affect the flavor profile, causing a distinct flavor unique to this area. A deeper study on this might be in order.

It is also worth noting that the Turkish tea-drinking custom is rooted in cultural tradition. While black tea is most common, a lesser-known fact is that Turkey also produces green tea, typically from the Rize region along the Black Sea coast. These variations in tea production and preparation are an interesting aspect of local Turkish tea culture.

The architectural style of the tea garden also contributes to the overall experience, employing traditional Ottoman elements that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. The lack of milk in the traditional Turkish tea preparation is also interesting. While many Western cultures enjoy tea with milk, locals seem to appreciate the natural flavor of the tea without any additives. This might highlight how social norms and traditions around food and beverage consumption are tied to cultural heritage.


Finally, this tea garden is an example of how community hubs can provide opportunities for genuine social interaction. Unlike the often impersonal nature of tourist spots, a local tea garden often acts as a social space where residents interact, offering visitors a glimpse into everyday life. Understanding these subtle nuances of social spaces in Istanbul may illuminate how communities interact within a city's infrastructure.

7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Ottoman Era Library Inside Nuruosmaniye Mosque Complex Still Lends Books

Tucked away within the energetic Sultanahmet district, the Nuruosmaniye Mosque complex holds a hidden gem—a library from the Ottoman era that remains actively in use. This library, built alongside the mosque in the 1700s, isn't just a historical relic, but a vital part of the local community. It's a striking example of architectural styles blending Ottoman and Baroque features, designed by Simeon Kalfa, a Greek architect. The mosque's intricate details and the library's enduring purpose provide a glimpse into Istanbul's history.

It's quite surprising to find a historical library still functioning in today's digital world. It's a pleasant reminder of the power of printed words and a connection to the past that's often missing in many tourist destinations. This library represents a constant in a city that's seen a surge in tourism, offering an authentic feel of Istanbul's scholarly heritage. Those interested in a unique blend of spiritual, historical, and community-focused experiences will find the Nuruosmaniye Mosque complex, with its vibrant library, a worthwhile adventure.

Hidden within the Nuruosmaniye Mosque complex, a library quietly continues its centuries-old tradition of lending books. Established alongside the mosque in the 18th century, it stands as a testament to the Ottoman era's commitment to knowledge dissemination, a principle that's often overshadowed in today's world of digital libraries and commercialized learning spaces.

This library holds a remarkable collection of over 5,000 books and manuscripts, including rare works on religious teachings, historical records, and literary masterpieces. Examining this archive provides a fascinating insight into the intellectual landscape of the Ottoman Empire, revealing the breadth of knowledge and scholarship that thrived during this era.

The Nuruosmaniye Mosque itself, designed by the Greek architect Simeon Kalfa, is an intriguing hybrid of Ottoman and Baroque architectural elements. Its design showcases how cultural exchange and adaptability shaped the architectural scene during a period of growing Western influence on Turkish design. The very presence of Baroque details within a predominantly Ottoman structure raises interesting questions about the flow of cultural concepts and artistic inspiration across societies.

The practice of maintaining a public lending library within a religious complex is unusual from both a historical and contemporary perspective. It highlights the Ottomans' belief that education was a public service, not a commodity. This contrasts strongly with the trend towards privatization and commercialization often found in modern libraries. It also begs the question about the efficacy and accessibility of Ottoman-era record-keeping and cataloging compared to the often complex database structures used by current libraries.

Beyond the educational focus, the library and mosque complex illustrate a harmonious relationship between religious practice and scholarship in Ottoman society. Religious learning was often intertwined with academic pursuits, which significantly shaped intellectual life and social structure during the period. How these two realms coexisted in the structure of society might be a subject worthy of further study.

The library holds a treasure trove of calligraphic works, providing a window into the remarkable artistry that flourished under the Ottomans. The meticulous skill and elegant execution of Ottoman calligraphy not only served aesthetic purposes but also contributed to a deeper understanding and appreciation of visual communication within a particular time and cultural milieu. It makes one think about how much information was conveyed through visual arts compared to the more recent domination of verbal/ written communication.

However, the existence of a functioning, book-lending library in the 21st century raises some intriguing questions. In a world increasingly dominated by digital media, the continuation of this traditional practice highlights the resilience of the physical book. It prompts one to ponder whether this kind of space can still compete with the immediacy and vastness of online information, and if traditional libraries have a future in our rapidly evolving technological world.

The ongoing operation of the library also offers an intriguing glimpse into the organizational prowess of the Ottomans. With meticulous record-keeping and a systematic approach to lending, they seem to have created a library system that would not be out of place in a modern academic context. It is worth contemplating the organizational lessons that modern library science can perhaps learn from studying how this historical system was constructed and functioned.

While visiting the library, visitors can also explore the mosque's intricate tilework and ornate ceilings, features that are characteristic of Ottoman decorative arts. This allows one to contextualize the significance of the decorative arts within the architectural design of the period, especially within religious structures.

Ultimately, the Nuruosmaniye Library stands as a vital link to Ottoman history and scholarship. Its collection not only preserves the legacy of the empire but also encourages us to reflect on the narratives and knowledge that have shaped the past. It is a space where visitors can interact with the intellectual legacy of an empire that once encompassed three continents and left an enduring mark on the world's history. The library serves as a reminder that the past continues to whisper wisdom, knowledge and innovation if we are willing to listen.

7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Secret Passage Through Gülhane Park Reveals Underground Byzantine Water Channel

Within the verdant expanse of Gülhane Park, a hidden marvel lies beneath the surface: an underground Byzantine water channel and cistern. This remarkable structure, dating back centuries, measures roughly 17 meters by 12 meters and reaches a depth of 7 meters. It's supported by a network of 20 vaults, held aloft by 12 columns crafted from Proconnesian marble. Interestingly, many of the Corinthian capitals that adorn the structure are unfinished, hinting at a time when construction might have been interrupted.

This hidden gem remained obscure for a long time, though its existence was known since 1913. Following its restoration, the cistern was finally opened to the public in early 2023, revealing its secrets. The significance of the Gülhane Park cistern goes beyond its structural beauty. It's also linked to other historical landmarks in the area, most notably the Byzantine Church of St. Polyeuctus. The water channel network beneath Gülhane Park suggests a complex and vital system used to sustain the area. While perhaps not as famous as Istanbul's more prominent landmarks, the cistern and its intricate network provide a unique window into the ingenuity of Byzantine engineering and the city's deep history. The Gülhane Park Cistern offers a captivating experience for those keen to explore the hidden stories etched within Istanbul's urban fabric, proving that history can be found in the most unexpected places, even within a popular park. It truly represents a hidden gem in the heart of the Sultanahmet district.

A recently unearthed secret passage within Gülhane Park has revealed a remarkable Byzantine-era water channel, showcasing the engineering prowess of that period. This underground conduit, with its vaulted ceilings and intricate flow design, speaks volumes about the sophisticated hydraulic systems employed by Byzantine engineers. The channel's construction, including the use of impermeable clay lining to minimize water loss, demonstrates a keen understanding of materials and their properties, a hallmark of that era's engineering ingenuity.

The earth surrounding the channel naturally insulates it, maintaining a relatively consistent temperature, regardless of the extreme temperature swings above ground. This natural temperature regulation is a clever application of environmental principles still used in today's underground construction projects.

Beyond its functional role, this channel's design and flow patterns might reflect deeper cultural symbolism associated with water, a theme prevalent in many societies. Water has been historically viewed as a source of life, purity, and renewal. This suggests that the Byzantine builders incorporated these symbolic meanings into their infrastructural design.

The channel's potential connections to other historical structures, such as the Byzantine Church of St. Polyeuctus, hint at an elaborate and interconnected infrastructure plan that went well beyond supplying water. Researching these connections could reveal far more complex urban design techniques used in this period.

Interestingly, the channel's function likely extended to culinary water filtration. The process they used may have been a primitive form of modern-day filtration, demonstrating the emphasis they placed on the quality of water meant for consumption.

From an archaeological perspective, this discovery sheds light on the broader context of Istanbul's historical development. The channel provides insights into trade routes, resource distribution, and population dynamics within the Byzantine Empire.

The channel's unique underground environment may also host specialized ecosystems. Exploring the biodiversity hidden within this underground environment could provide insights into past environmental conditions and the adaptation processes occurring over centuries.

Preserving this hidden gem is a major challenge in the face of urban development and changing environmental conditions. Protecting these sites requires modern engineering solutions and necessitates a balancing act between preserving urban infrastructure and heritage.

Finally, the Gülhane Park water channel underlines the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers, archaeologists, and historians to formulate effective cultural heritage management strategies. Studying historical techniques can inform modern practices for preserving and managing these sites within the constantly evolving urban landscape. This complex interplay between historical practices and the need for modern preservation represents a challenging and crucial aspect of today's urban planning.

7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Family Run Pottery Workshop in Çemberlitaş Offers Free Clay Making Classes

Hidden amidst the lively streets of Çemberlitaş, a family-run pottery studio offers a unique and unexpected experience: free clay-making classes. This workshop provides a chance to get your hands dirty and learn traditional pottery techniques, like shaping and molding clay into various forms. You'll gain a better understanding of Istanbul's historical crafts scene and perhaps create a simple mug, plate, or vase to take home as a souvenir of your time in this neighborhood. It's conveniently located near the Grand Bazaar, making it an ideal spot for those interested in a deeper cultural dive. While the Grand Bazaar is crowded with tourists, the pottery workshop offers a different perspective on the area, immersing you in the artistry that's part of the local heritage. For those looking to add a genuine cultural element to their visit to Sultanahmet, this workshop provides a compelling opportunity.

A family-run pottery studio nestled within the Çemberlitaş district offers free clay-making classes, providing a fascinating glimpse into the traditional techniques passed down through generations. This approach to craftsmanship, relying on knowledge handed down within the family, contrasts with modern industrial processes that often prioritize automation over hands-on skill.

The workshops offer an intriguing look into how clay, a natural material primarily composed of fine-grained minerals, can be transformed into functional and artistic objects. The clay's inherent plasticity, significantly altered by the addition of water, is key to the process. Observing how skilled hands manipulate the material's consistency to shape it into different forms is quite captivating, especially considering how the final result relies on factors like water content and temperature, making the process quite empirical.

Çemberlitaş, being near the Grand Bazaar, is a commercial hub that draws both locals and tourists. This region offers a unique juxtaposition of age-old crafts with bustling commercial activity, reminding us of how centuries of experience are incorporated into modern-day life. This is important to understand, as Istanbul is known for its rich artistic heritage, particularly in ceramics and pottery. These crafts are integral to the cultural fabric and contribute to the regional identity.

The classes often showcase the historical legacy of the region's pottery, incorporating traditional patterns and decorative elements from the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. These examples of historical continuity are noteworthy, as they highlight how ancient techniques persist into contemporary crafts. Moreover, the glazing process is quite interesting, as the workshop employs metal oxides in glazes, demonstrating a clear link between art and materials science. This interplay with chemistry creates the unique colors and textures we see in the pottery, showcasing that the workshop utilizes techniques that extend far beyond artistic expression.


The physical process of pottery involves fundamental physical laws, especially when using the potter's wheel. Achieving a certain shape relies on principles like centripetal force and balance, adding another dimension to the artistic practice. Participants who are less experienced in these areas may find it interesting to learn about the principles that go into creating these works of art.

Beyond the scientific and historical aspects, the workshop can be a calming and immersive experience. Psychological studies have shown the benefits of hands-on creative activities, suggesting that pottery can reduce stress and promote emotional well-being. This intriguing interaction between artistic creation and human psychology isn't often considered, but clearly plays a role in how humans interact with their surroundings.

The studio's approach to pottery is a striking contrast to the industrial production of ceramics. Understanding this difference offers a broader perspective on the tradeoffs between speed and craftsmanship. It compels us to question whether mass production diminishes the essence of a craft, raising a valid discussion about the value placed on unique, handmade objects in our increasingly mass-produced society.


Lastly, it is worth noting that some aspects of pottery making are tied to seasonality. The studio might, for instance, use specific types of clay that are readily available at certain times of the year. This adds another fascinating layer to the practice, forcing potters to adapt to the resources provided by the natural world. This seasonal approach highlights the adaptive nature of traditional crafts and demonstrates the close connection to the environment, something that's rarely emphasized in industrialized societies.

In conclusion, the Çemberlitaş pottery workshop offers a unique and multi-faceted experience, encouraging a broader appreciation for the skills involved in traditional craft, local historical context, and the surprising scientific elements at play. It's an engaging and insightful experience that is well worth exploring for anyone with even the slightest curiosity about traditional techniques and artistic expression.

7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Monthly Art Market in Caferağa Medresesi Features Local Artists and Musicians

Tucked away in the heart of Sultanahmet, the Caferağa Medresesi hosts a monthly art market that brings together local artists and musicians. This historic building, originally a school built by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century, has transformed into a center for traditional Turkish art and crafts. Each month, the medresesi becomes a vibrant showcase of local talents, featuring diverse art forms like calligraphy, marbling, and contemporary handicrafts. Visitors can browse handmade ceramics, miniature artworks, and other unique creations crafted by artists connected to the medresesi's associated school. The market's focus on local artistry and community engagement makes it a refreshing contrast to the typical, tourist-driven shopping experiences that dominate the area. It provides a chance to discover a more authentic and less commercialized facet of Istanbul's rich artistic heritage, a side of the city often overlooked by casual tourists. If you want to feel the pulse of Istanbul's creativity and artistic soul, consider checking out this unique market during your visit to Sultanahmet.

Within the bustling Sultanahmet district, tucked near the Hagia Sophia, the Caferağa Medresesi hosts a monthly art market, offering a unique window into Istanbul's creative scene. Built in 1560 by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan as a religious school, the structure now serves as a center for Turkish artistry, hosting workshops and exhibitions that showcase the talents of local artisans. This market serves as a platform where local artists can display a wide range of art forms, from traditional calligraphy and marbling to more modern crafts. You might find everything from intricate miniatures to handcrafted ceramics – pieces created by artisans trained at the associated school.

The medrese's cultural focus extends beyond just displaying art. They offer workshops and classes on various traditional Turkish art forms, such as paper marbling. These hands-on experiences can be quite fascinating and offer a more direct connection to the art-making process. It's interesting to note that while the Sultanahmet district is a tourist hotspot with sites like the ancient Hippodrome, Caferağa Medresesi is often overlooked by tourists. For those seeking experiences that move beyond the more commercialized aspects of Istanbul's tourist scene, the medrese and its associated art market provide a genuinely insightful and enriching encounter.

The art on display within the medrese stands in contrast to the often more generic wares found in tourist-oriented bazaars. This market provides a glimpse into a more localized and authentic form of art, showcasing regional craftsmanship and reflecting the cultural dynamism of the area. The cultural organization associated with the medrese aims not only to promote these arts but also to educate visitors about their historical significance and the remarkable skills of the artists involved. From a purely academic perspective, analyzing the market dynamics and the specific crafts showcased at the market could offer insights into consumer preferences and the local economic impact of artisan production in this area. The diversity of art and the focus on supporting local talent make this market a true gem for those who want to experience Istanbul beyond the common tourist trail.

7 Hidden Gems in Istanbul's Sultanahmet District That Even Locals Don't Know About - Small Door at Küçük Ayasofya Mosque Opens to Hidden Ottoman Garden Terrace

The Küçük Ayasofya Mosque, once a church dedicated to Saints Sergius and Bacchus, now reveals a hidden gem: an Ottoman-era garden terrace accessible through a small, unassuming door. This serene space offers a peaceful respite from the tourist crowds in the Sultanahmet district. The mosque itself, with its stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, is already a draw for visitors interested in history and art. Now, the newly accessible terrace adds a further layer of historical and cultural interest, allowing visitors a tranquil setting to reflect on the interwoven past of Byzantine and Ottoman Istanbul. This addition underscores how the mosque continues to function as a dynamic cultural hub and is a delightful surprise for those looking to uncover Istanbul's lesser-known attractions. While the garden might be a relatively small space, its unexpected presence and connection to the mosque’s rich history adds a unique facet to the visitor experience. One wonders, what other hidden spaces within this complex await discovery? It seems likely that those who seek to delve deeper into the building’s history and architecture might find further hidden surprises. It appears that even now, the complex holds mysteries and features that have only just begun to be rediscovered and interpreted, making it a potentially endless source of historical and architectural fascination.

A recently discovered Ottoman garden terrace, tucked behind a small, unassuming door at the Küçük Ayasofya Mosque, has shed light on the intricate planning of Ottoman architecture. This hidden space, thoughtfully integrated into the complex, reveals how functional structures often concealed serene gardens designed for respite and contemplation.

It's not simply a garden, but a carefully designed social and spiritual space reflecting the deep significance of nature in Ottoman life. Ottoman architecture frequently sought harmony between the built environment and natural elements. This specific design might have used terraced gardening techniques, enhancing light exposure and microclimates to cultivate a variety of plants, even within the dense urban context of Istanbul. It's a testament to the advanced landscaping practices employed by Ottomans.

The design emphasizes privacy and personal space, rooted in a complex interplay of social norms and urban planning. This shows how public and private domains were carefully managed in Ottoman society. Historical sources suggest these terraces were planted with aromatic and medicinal herbs, underscoring the Ottoman integration of botanical knowledge into their garden designs for both aesthetic and practical reasons.

The very existence of this secluded haven underscores the remarkable sophistication of Ottoman water management systems. It likely relied on cisterns and aqueducts to maintain these verdant spaces within urban areas. It's impressive evidence of prioritizing sustainability long before it became a contemporary concern.

Furthermore, recent archaeological findings suggest these garden terraces were not just functional, but carried symbolic meaning. They may have embodied the concept of paradise on earth, their layout mirroring traditional Islamic motifs related to heaven and spiritual purity. Historical records show they were also used for social gatherings and educational purposes, revealing that these weren't merely retreats, but platforms for community interaction and knowledge exchange.

These concealed green spaces in urban landscapes like Istanbul are compelling. They stimulate discussions about the vital role of greenery in city planning. They offer insights into how past communities managed their relationship with the environment.

Finally, the exploration of these hidden gardens begs questions about the historical continuity of urban green spaces in Istanbul. It's a topic deserving further research to understand how these spaces have been preserved or altered within today's urban development. The study of the interaction between built environment, natural elements, and social practices within a historical context can offer valuable lessons for modern urban development.