The district of Aynalı Çeşme (translation: “fountain with mirrors”) is part of the historical core of modern-day Beyoğlu, formerly known as “Pera.” At the end of the 19th century, a devastating fire destroyed most of the traditional wooden architecture in this neighbourhood but was completely rebuilt afterwards. Oddly enough, thanks to this catastrophe, the district offers a unique and complete collection of the architectural styles from around the turn of the 19th/ 20th century. Old Greek buildings with oriel windows overlooking the narrow streets are characteristic of this part of the city. Thus, with a bit of knowledge, a stroll back home equates to a stroll through a crucial time in modern Istanbul history. Our apartments in Aynalı Çeşme are a far cry from the neighbourhoods of tourists and carpet-sellers. Surrounded by locals conducting their daily affairs and children playing in the street, your base in Istanbul is easily compared to a Turkish village rather than a contrived tourist attraction. Nevertheless, you’re in the heart of Istanbul from where you are only minutes away from the famous pedestrian boulevard ‘Istiklal Caddesi’ which leads you directly to Taksim Square, the transportation hub of modern Istanbul. From there, all major attractions, such as the Sultanahmet district with the world famous Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, are in close reach.