Ortakoy is a cosmopolite area with communities of Turks, Greeks, Armenians and Jews with the different religious monuments and important for the Jewish, Christian and Muslim communities of the city.
It is also a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with its art galleries, night clubs, cafes, particularly fist restaurants. Ortakoy also host the weekend handicraft market that makes the square particularly crowded and popular. The symbol of the district is the famous 19th century Great Mecidiye mosque that is known as a finest example of Baroque style in Istanbul.
