One of Istanbul’s oldest and most colorful districts, Samatya (today known as Kocamustafapaşa), beautifully preserves the city’s historic texture, culinary delights, and warm sense of community. You can reach this enchanting neighborhood by taking the metro from Sirkeci, following the same rail route once used by the Orient Express.

From a Greek Neighborhood to a Cultural Mosaic

Samatya has been an important settlement since Byzantine times, originally a predominantly Greek (Rum) district. This deep-rooted history is still felt in its narrow streets, fish markets, traditional taverns, and famous kebab restaurants like Develi. Additionally, "İkinci Bahar" (Second Spring), one of the most beloved Turkish TV series, tells the story of a kebab chef in Samatya, cementing the neighborhood’s place in pop culture.

Langa Cucumber: A Lost Flavor

One of Samatya’s iconic flavors was the Langa cucumber, a special variety grown along the Bayrampaşa Stream (Likos Creek), stretching from Yenikapı to Topkapı. These cucumbers were larger and greener than usual. Unfortunately, due to urban development (particularly the construction of Vatan Avenue), the original cultivation areas have mostly disappeared, though small gardens near the Topkapı walls still keep the tradition alive.

The Fish Museum: A Treasure Trove of Marine Life

One of Samatya’s most fascinating spots is the Samatya Fish Museum, founded in 1991 by Haydar Deniz, president of the Kocamustafapaşa Fishermen’s Association. The museum houses around 700 fish species collected from Turkey’s seas, including rare specimens like:

• A 52-year-old frogfish
• A striped grouper caught in 1970
• A scorpionfish from 1973
  Free to visit, the museum offers a unique experience, especially for students and marine life enthusiasts.

Historic Churches and Monasteries

Samatya reflects Istanbul’s cosmopolitan identity through its religious diversity, with several historic churches and monasteries, including:

• Aya Konstantin Church
• Surp Kevork Church (originally the Sulu Monastery, belonging to the Greek community before being granted to Armenians by Sultan Ibrahim I)
• Aya Yorgi Church (1830)
• Aya Nikola Church
• Ana Lipsis Church
• Anarad Hığutyun Church
  The fact that the Armenian Patriarchate was located in Samatya until 1640 further highlights the neighborhood’s multicultural past.

** The Magic of Samatya**

Unlike many other parts of Istanbul, Samatya still retains its neighborhood spirit, strong community ties, and living history. With its fishermen, taverns, churches, and fading culinary traditions, this district embodies the soul of the city in its purest form. If you want to experience Istanbul’s authentic charm, Samatya should be on your list!