Suriye Pasajı (Syrian Passage)

The Syrian passage is one of the historical passages on Istiklal Street, one of the symbols of the Beyoğlu district on the European side of Istanbul, which is open only to pedestrian traffic. It is located opposite the Russian Consulate General building between Galatasaray High School and the tunnel. It was built by Hasan Halbuni Paşa, an Ottoman citizen of Syrian nationality, and his uncle, who was the president of an important organization in the city.

Completed in 1908 after nearly eight years of work, the Syrian passage hosted the region's well-known restaurants for over 100 years, as well as housing, offices, cafes, and various shops. The passage, made in neoclassical style, attracts attention with its aesthetic details. It is among the oldest passages in Beyoğlu, and stands out for its size. It also has interesting aspects, for example, it is the first structure in which electricity is connected after the Ottoman palace. Besides, the first cinema in Turkey was opened in the Syrian passage.

Today, as well as hosting many businesses, various associations are located in the passage. It is a structure of historical value where human circulation is intense.