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Caferaga Medresesi, Istanbul

4.5
#21 of 141 in Historic Sites in Istanbul
Religious Site Tourist Spot
Right in the city center, Caferaga Medresesi features exhibits of art and music and offers handicraft workshops. Completed in 1559, the building was designed by Mimar Sinan, one of the most prominent architects of the Ottoman Empire, and originally served as a religious school. Today the site hosts 15 halls decorated with works of students and Turkish artists. Here you'll be able to learn the basics of old calligraphic techniques or make traditional ceramic objects and simple jewelry. Sip on some tea or have a Turkish meal at the site, or purchase some colorful souvenirs. The gardens here make an excellent resting spot. Make Caferaga Medresesi a part of your Istanbul vacation plans using our Istanbul trip planner.
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Caferaga Medresesi Reviews
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292 reviews
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4.4
TripAdvisor
  • July 14, 2017
    I read about marbling paper at Caferaga Medresesi in a guide and being a mixed media artist, I really wanted to try the process. You may find many simplified processes online but here, you will experi...  more »
  • July 12, 2017
    One of the works of Sinan the architect Caferağa Medresesi, was built during the reign of Suleiman the magnificent. Today, after a serious restoration was opened. Ebru, calligraphy, gilding, miniature etc. art of workshops and souvenir selling places. There are also tea and coffee places.
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  • May 27, 2017
    We visited this art school as part of a stop woth our tour guide and the next day we went back for an art class with Josh. I got to learn Ebru Art, and can I just say it is one of my best memories of ...  more »
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  • An old Ottoman school converted into handicraft center and a nice cafe. Good place to have a break for a reason, coffee or lemonade.
  • We had the pleasure of learning more about Caferaga Medresesi while recently in Istanbul. The staff was extremely friendly. A special demonstration was organized for us to see how one of the artists creates his marbling technique. Learning about all the various classes offered here made us commit to taking a class the next time we are in Istanbul. Swing by this lovely art oasis for a lovely experience when you are visiting Istanbul!
  • A great place to take a calm break
  • Nice
  • Old Medrese
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