Caferaga Medresesi

What an afternoon! The 2h Ebru Marbling class we took was the highlight of our Istanbul trip. Josh was our teacher and he was talented, warm and patient. He first taught us the basics of the technique, then left us alone to be as creative as possible. He occasionally dropped in to give tips and offer tea and encouragement. We really enjoyed the time we spent there, and got to take home all the paintings that we did! This is the best way to spend an afternoon in this beautiful city, and I am sure this is the best place to do it! Amazing teacher, amazing atmosphere, amazing hospitality - - highly recommended! PS Josh is also passionate about other traditional art techniques. He even did a personalised calligraphy for us as a gift, it was very touching

I visit this place once a year. So peaceful every time. Didn't eat anything so I cannot comment on the food. However their turkish coffee is delicious and nicely served. Love to admire the art around. Also you can get Ebru classes for 2 hours.

A little courtyard that you’d no doubt miss if you weren’t a snooper or if your free walking tour didn’t take you to. It’s nice to see a madrasa giving helpful education in the form of arts and crafts to humans of all lands, colours and shapes. A peaceful place to have a baklava and Turkish tea or coffee and a 1 lira toilet break before heading back out into the bustling Sultan Ahmet square. Enjoy!

I had homemade lemonade (sweet!!) and a triangular slice of mosaic cake for 22 lira. It’s my first day in Istanbul, hot as hell at 3pm and I needed a respite. It’s next door to Aya Sofya but only Turkish speakers are here as there is no sign advertising drinks on the street. Enjoyed it way more than the tourist traps lining Alemdar Cad, one block away. My little waiter (owner’s son?) was puzzled that I can’t say much more yet than merhaba (hello!) but I bumbled through. This building is obviously an architectural landmark, but I don’t know much about medrese designed by Sinan (I suspect he’s a famous Ottoman era person). Lemonade and triangle cake hit the spot for me.

The Medresesi was a part of the walking tour of the Istanbul Old City. We stopped there for a coffee and also learn about Sinan and the activities that took place there. Some interesting art is on display.