In 1998, a conservation project was initiated in collaboration with UNESCO, the EU, and the Fatih Municipality, aiming to preserve both the architectural fabric of the area and its residents. Before this project, Fener, Balat, and Ayvansaray were historical neighborhoods whose names were only known by their inhabitants and a few curious individuals, secluded and home to ordinary people living in small, multi-story houses with bay windows.

This book, which contains academic articles on the past, present, and future of these ancient neighborhoods, is a step towards making the historical and social values of the region more visible, and drawing attention to problematic approaches in urban renewal projects targeting these areas.
(From the Promotional Bulletin)