About Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak
Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak is a short historic street in Istanbul’s Fatih district, named in honor of Hakkı Tarık Us (1889–1956), a celebrated Turkish journalist, educator and politician (turkipedia.com ). The street itself has no formal seating or stage; it’s essentially an open pedestrian lane in the old city. Its name was changed from the old “Tereke Sokağı” to commemorate Us’s legacy (pdfcoffee.com ). The road lies between Hoca Kasım Günani Camii (mosque) and the former İstanbul Lisesi (high school), linking a mosque courtyard with the Beyazıt-University area. While Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak does not host any large-scale performances or concerts, it is notable as a kind of living memorial: visitors here walk in the footsteps of a key figure of Turkish media history.
The street’s character is quiet and historical. The buildings have traditional Ottoman-era facades, and the atmosphere is more residential-turned-cultural than bustling commercial. Signposts in Turkish mark the way to nearby landmarks like Beyazıt Square and the Grand Bazaar, just a few blocks north. Intriguingly, the valley above may tell a story if you know where to look: in the mid-20th century Hakkı Tarık Us used much of his income to buy up old newspapers and books to form a public collection (pdfcoffee.com ). Though there’s no modern department store or shopping mall here, small bookshops and older buildings remind you of the street’s roots as part of Istanbul’s old publishing and Sahaflar (secondhand booksellers’) quarter.
There is no box-office, no grand foyer and no stage on Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak, and that is part of its uniqueness. It functions more like a small public square than a conventional venue. Locals might pause at any of the benches or steps near the mosque to chat, and you'll sometimes see researchers or students wandering toward the nearby library or the university campus. The street matters locally because it honors Us’s contribution to Turkish journalism and public knowledge. Every year on October 21st – the anniversary of his death – small commemorations sometimes take place here or at the Hakkı Tarık Us Library. But in daily life, the street is mostly a peaceful connector road in one of Istanbul’s oldest neighbourhoods.
Events and Programming
Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak itself is not a scheduled concert hall or theater, so it rarely hosts performances or entertainment events. There are no ticketed shows or open-mic nights on the street, and no on-site sound system or stage lighting. That said, the street is occasionally part of guided historical walking tours focused on Fatih and Beyazıt, where a guide might pause to tell visitors about the life of Hakkı Tarık Us or the surrounding Ottoman-era landmarks. In that sense, the “program” here is informal: passing literature authors, journalists, or lecturers might give an outdoor talk in front of the mosque or the old school, especially around anniversaries or during cultural festivals in Istanbul. But there is no fixed schedule of events posted at the street.
If you do visit expecting programming, you’ll find more activity a block away at the Beyazıt State Library (the former Hakkı Tarık Us Library) or Grand Bazaar exhibitions. Occasionally small book fairs or history exhibitions spill out from the nearby library into the street, especially on World Press Freedom Day or cultural heritage events. Any such events are usually free and publicized locally in advance. During these rare occasions, the street may get lively with booths of old book sellers or historical displays. But on a normal weekday, expect a quiet street with locals and students passing through. People often stop to read commemorative plaques, or take photos by the lamp-post commemorating Us. In short, plan your visit here for the history and atmosphere rather than for a specific performance.
Tickets and Booking
You do not need any tickets or reservations to visit Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak itself – it’s a public street that anyone can walk into at any time. There is no entrance fee, no ticket booth, and nothing to book in advance. You simply arrive and explore on foot. If you want to enter nearby attractions (for example, Beyazıt State Library or museums in the area), those have their own ticketing or registration which is separate. But the street itself is open access and free 24/7. In that sense it’s like a museum plaza or city park rather than a closed venue.
If you are interested in the Hakkı Tarık Us Library (now the Beyazıt State Library), note that it is part of Istanbul’s public library system. There is no charge to become a member of the library or to enter it if you have a library card. Passers-by often peek into the lobby, but do check the library’s own hours if you want to go inside and see his collection or archives. Some library events (like temporary exhibits or talks on press history) may require ribışer or a ticket – but those are announced by the library and not on this street. In short, for this street you won’t be dealing with any box office or online booking. Just steer clear of any ticket touts or suspicious offers – they won’t have anything to do with Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak itself.
Seating and Layout
The layout of Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak is straightforward. It’s a one-block pedestrian road, roughly 100-150 meters long, running between a mosque courtyard on one end and the back alley of a former high school on the other. The surface is paved and mostly flat – typical old-city sidewalk-level stone or concrete. There are no fixed seats or stands built along the way, but you’ll find a few stone steps and benches around the Hoca Kasım Günani Mosque end where people sometimes sit. In front of the old high school (now a cultural center), students often congregate on the steps. As a visitor, the “best seat” is simply standing or leaning, although one popular spot is the outdoor bench near the little park next to the mosque. From there you can see the narrow street framed by red brick walls and feel part of a gentle local scene.
Because it’s basically an open public street, there are no “bad seats” to avoid – the street view is essentially the same from end to end. Everyone has equal access to walk and look. If you want a particular perspective for photography or people-watching, try either end. Facing north gives you a view up towards the mosque and university domes; facing south looks toward the Istanbul Lisesi building façade. Acoustically it’s quiet, so you won’t have echo issues or overly loud areas except perhaps during call-to-prayer near the mosque when loudspeakers are on. Otherwise the ambient sound is city traffic from nearby main roads and occasional school bells. No spot on the street has restricted sightlines. In fact, many visitors casually stroll through, stopping as desired to read plaques or admire the historic shops and signage along Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak.
Getting There and Parking
Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak is in central Fatih, very close to several well-known Istanbul landmarks. Its informal address is “Hoca Kasım Günani Camiii arkası,” in the Hobyar neighbourhood (turkey-streets.openalfa.com ). By public transit, it’s very accessible. The nearest tram stop is Beyazit-Kapalıçarsı (on tram line T1), which is just a 5-minute walk north via Müftüler Yokuşu. The M2 metro line also passes nearby (Yenikapı–Hacıosman route); get off at Vezneciler or Laleli-Üniversite and walk a few blocks south. In fact, there are bus lines along streets like Divan Yolu that stop near Beyazıt Tower or Çemberlitaş – from there it’s about 10 minutes on foot downhill. For hourly travel planners and live maps (Moovit, Trafi), search “Beyazit” or “Cemal Nadir Sokak.”
If you plan to drive, note that this part of Fatih is very congested and street parking is rarely available. There are a few paid car parks in the area: for example, an underground garage beneath the Beyazıt Square or private lots near the Grand Bazaar. Some visitors prefer to park at Istanbul University lots (if admission is free, just park on Miller Street near the university campus) or use paid drop-offs. Alternatively, you can stop at a taxi stand or order a rideshare (Uber and local services operate here); good drop-off points include “Hoca Kasım Günani Camii” or “Beyazit Sahaflar” if you have GPS. In any case, using Istanbul’s public transit is usually simpler. If you see a sign for Sahaflar or Büyük Postane (Grand Post Office), you’re in the right neighborhood – Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak is just east of those.
Inside the Venue
Stepping into Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak is like walking into a quiet slice of old Istanbul. There are no turnstiles or security checks – it’s an open street – though keep an eye out for motorbikes: local residents sometimes park scooters along the sidewalk. Hidden behind the façades are a few small shops, a branch of a cultural foundation in one building, and of course the Hakkı Tarık Us Library (Beyazıt Subayı) around the corner. On any given day, entry is casual – you might see seminary students walking to classes or retirees reading Turkish newspapers on a bench. The street has a gentle, scholarly atmosphere; if you arrive at prayer time, the mosque’s adhan broadcast reminds you of its context. Otherwise, listen for street vendors or the distant rumble of a bus. There is no regulated dress code - most visitors come in smart-casual or modest attire (especially if they plan to enter the mosque in front).
Facilities directly on Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak are sparse. There is no concert cloakroom, and no official merchandise stand selling shows or programs. The nearest restrooms are inside the mosque complex or on Ulu Cami Sokak beside the Grand Bazaar. However, there is a small café at Beyazıt Library entrance (a 2-minute walk) with snacks and drink, and several tea gardens a few blocks away if you need refreshments. Mobile connectivity is good – Istanbul’s 4G covers this area, and some cafes offer Wi-Fi. In short, “inside” Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak you should expect stone-paved ground, pedestrian-only space, and a laid-back vibe. Security staff might be visible at the mosque or library entrances, but you won’t be scanned or stressed – just enjoy the peaceful academic air.
Nearby Amenities
Right around the corner from Hakkı Tarık Us Street are numerous dining and drinking options. To the north is the famous Laleli and Grand Bazaar area, where you can find Turkish kebab shops, pide (flatbread) restaurants and classic cafes. A short walk west leads to Beyazıt Square, lined with historical tea gardens and homey lokantas (dining cafés) serving menemen and Turkish coffee. For a quick bite, try the “Tarihi Beyazıt Sofrası” or a simit (sesame bagel) vendor in front of the Ulu Camii (Grand Mosque). In the evening you’ll find quiet raki bars and wine houses within a 10-15 minute walk (especially around Çemberlitaş); Sultanahmet area restaurants are also nearby if you’re willing to stroll 1 km south.
For hotels, the Old City (Fatih) has many budget and mid-range options. Within 5 blocks are places like Gulhane Park Hotel, Beyazit Tower Hotel, and the Yeni Vatan Hotel, which offer convenient access. Slightly further, the Çemberlitaş and Sirkeci neighborhoods have well-known chains – e.g., Hampton by Hilton and Mövenpick – about a 5-10 minute walk from Hakkı Tarık Us Street (turkey-streets.openalfa.com ). If you prefer luxury, the Four Seasons in Sultanahmet or even Taksim’s hotels (Taksim is ~2 km north) are readily achievable. Note that traffic can slow taxi/Uber pickups near Beyazıt, so public transit might be faster to reach these hotels. As for late-night transportation, the T1 tram stops running around midnight, and the metro closes even earlier. After that, you can catch an AKS (official city minibus) or take a yellow taxi back to your lodging. Istanbul taxis are plentiful here, though it’s safer to use the official stands rather than hailing on the street late at night.
What Makes This Venue Special
Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak is special not because of glitzy amenities but because of its history and cultural resonance. It memorializes a figure who dedicated his life to saving and sharing Turkey’s literary heritage. Mr. Us spent much of his fortune buying old newspapers and journals so that Turks could access their own history (pdfcoffee.com ). His home-town heroes often call him “the man who preserved the press.” In fact, after the 1949 fire in the Sahaflar (booksellers’) Bazaar, it was largely thanks to his efforts that authorities decreed vendors could sell only books and periodicals there (pdfcoffee.com ). This helped maintain Istanbul’s century-old book-trading tradition. So by walking this street, visitors tread ground that reflects Istanbul’s era of hand-printed news and scholarly life.
Years after he passed away on 21 October 1956, Hakkı Tarık Us’s own will was fulfilled: his archive was moved into the historic II. Bayezid Külliyesi (the old mosque complex) in Beyazıt, creating the Hakkı Tarık Us Library in 1965 (pdfcoffee.com ). Today you can browse rare Ottoman newspapers in that Beyazıt Library and think of this man collecting them. Here on this street you’ll see a plaque with his name on the mosque wall or the school entrance. Perhaps most telling is the street sign itself; it’s one of the few in Istanbul named not after a sultan or saint, but after a journalist and educator. In that sense, it’s a symbol of modern Turkish history. Istanbulites who know their history are proud of it, and scholars feel a quiet respect. Every detail on this block – from the old lamp posts to the city walls glimpsed ahead – takes on extra meaning because of his name and legacy.
Visitor Tips and Information
Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak is easy to visit but here are some tips. It’s not a crowded tourist path, so the best time to stop by is whenever you’re exploring Beyazıt or the Grand Bazaar. There’s no need to rush: the street is open all day and night, and being a public space, you can wander it whenever. Wear comfortable shoes, though, as some sections have slightly uneven cobblestones. Clothes should be modest if you plan to step into the mosque or school. Locals dress casually, but headscarves are customary for women entering the mosque. If you happen to visit during Ramadan or Friday prayers, nearby shops may close briefly – but otherwise businesses around stay open daily.
Accessibility is generally good: the sidewalk is mostly flat, and there are tactile paving strips in some places. Wheelchairs and strollers can negotiate the short length easily. The street has curb ramps at both ends, and the mosque entrance is level with the ground. If you have any mobility needs, know that the mosque has a wheelchair entrance on its main courtyard. As for amenities, public toilets are not on the street itself – try the mosque / library complexes, or nearby cafes. There is no coat check or left luggage service, so don’t bring large bags. Smoking is allowed on the street (as in most of Istanbul), but of course not inside the mosque or library.
Photography is permitted and often encouraged (many visitors snap the vintage street sign). Just be respectful: don’t enter private courtyards or disturb worshippers. If photography in the mosque or library is done, ask permission first. No official tour is required, but guidebooks or apps on Istanbul’s history will note this street. Keep in mind basic Istanbul safety – pickpocketing is rare here but always be aware of belongings. Don’t rely on GPS 100% in the old section (some tiny alleyways have no address markers), so it helps to have an offline map or ask a local policeman for directions. Finally, with such an unusual venue, an insider trick is to read the inscriptions: the Istanbul High School wall often has Atatürk-era decorations, and some plaques on the mosque reference older restorations. Looking up at the sky from mid-street you even get a glimpse of the Beyazit Clock Tower steeple. Walking Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak is as much about noticing these little history clues as it is about the street name itself.
What is Hakkı Tarık Us Street exactly?
Hakkı Tarık Us Street (Sokak) is a short, historic street in Istanbul’s Fatih district, near Beyazıt Square. It runs between the Hoca Kasım Günani Mosque and the Istanbul High School building. The street is named after Hakkı Tarık Us, a notable Turkish journalist and politician. It is not a venue or theater, but simply a public street honoring his legacy.
Who was Hakkı Tarık Us and why is the street named after him?
Hakkı Tarık Us (1889–1956) was a famous Turkish newspaper editor, writer, and lawmaker (turkipedia.com ) (pdfcoffee.com ). He collected and preserved countless Turkish newspapers and magazines for public use. He also served in Parliament and was influential in the Turkish independence era. After he died, local authorities renamed Tereke Sokak in his honor (pdfcoffee.com ). The street celebrates his contributions to journalism and culture.
How do I get to Hakkı Tarık Us Street using public transport?
The street is very close to Beyazıt Square. Take the T1 tram to “Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı” station, then walk south towards Hoca Kasım Camii. Alternatively, the M2 metro line (Yenikapı–Hacıosman) stops at Vezneciler or Laleli-Üniversite, both a few minutes’ walk away. Buses along Divan Yolu (Atatürk Boulevard) also stop near Beyazıt Tower. In many GPS maps simply search “Hoca Kasım Camii” and you’ll find it; the street is immediately adjacent.
Is there parking available near Hakkı Tarık Us Street?
Parking on the street itself is not available. If driving, you’ll need a public car park in Beyazıt or the Grand Bazaar area. There is an underground parking lot at Beyazıt Square and a paid lot near the Grand Bazaar. Some visitors also park at Istanbul University lots (step down past the square) or use drop-off on Miller Street. Overall, it’s easier to use metro/tram rather than drive.
Are there any entrance fees or tickets required?
No tickets are needed for Hakkı Tarık Us Street; it is a public street. There is free, 24-hour access. There is also no box office or reservation system, since it is not an event space. The nearby Beyazıt State Library (Hakkı Tarık Us Library) allows free entry with or without a library card. In short, visiting the street or the library section honoring Us is free.
Can I visit the Hakkı Tarık Us Library on this street?
Strictly speaking, the Hakkı Tarık Us Library (his collection) is part of the Beyazıt State Library in the nearby II. Bayezid Mosque complex (a short walk north). There’s no library building directly on Hakkı Tarık Us Street. You can, however, easily walk a few minutes to the Beyazıt Library (free to enter) and request the section of Ottomans newspapers collected by Us (turkipedia.com ). No booking is required for that library; just show a possible ID or fill a guest form at the entrance.
What streets or landmarks intersect Hakkı Tarık Us Street?
Hakkı Tarık Us Street runs roughly north–south. It connects to a small square by the Hoca Kasım Günani Mosque at its north end, and to a courtyard behind the Istanbul High School on its south end (formerly called Tarık Us İlköğretim Okulu). The famous Grand Bazaar area (Beyazıt Kapalıçarşı) is just a 2-3 minute walk north-west, and the Beyazıt Mosque (Grand Imam Mosque) is about 5 minutes north-east. Nearby named streets are Müftüler Yokuşu and Çadırcılar Cad. The street itself used to be called Tereke Sokak (pdfcoffee.com ).
Are there public restrooms or drinking fountains close by?
Not on the street itself. The closest public restrooms are inside the Beyazıt State Library or in the Hoca Kasım Günani Mosque (the wudu area). Some cafes on Çadırcılar Cadesi (off Müftüler Yokuşu) also have customer restrooms. As for water, there is a fountain in the small park area of the mosque courtyard. Otherwise carry a water bottle; you’ll find small markets selling bottled water nearby.
Is Hakkı Tarık Us Street wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the street is flat and accessible. There are curb ramps at both ends. The sidewalk along Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak is level without steps, so wheelchairs and strollers can pass. Just be aware that while the street itself is modernized, nearby historic sites like the mosque entry may have thresholds. But in general, mobility-impaired visitors can visit the street without difficulty.
What food and drink options are on or near the street?
Hakkı Tarık Us Street has no restaurants itself, but it is surrounded by many. A block north/ south you’ll find classic Turkish lokantas and kebab shops. For example, there are noodle/pasta shops and fried-snack joints on Çadırcılar and Esirliler Streets. If you walk 3–4 minutes, you can enjoy bakery treats and Turkish tea in cafés around Beyazıt Square or in Beyazıt Sahaflar (booksellers) market. The Beyazıt State Library has a small café inside, which is convenient. There are also street vendors selling simit (sesame bagels) and tea near the Grand Bazaar entrance a short walk away.
Can I take photos here and is there a dress code?
Yes, photography on the street is perfectly fine and even encouraged by history fans. Many visitors photograph the street sign or the old architecture. There is no formal dress code for walking down Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak; casual clothes are normal. However, if you plan to enter Hoca Kasım Günani Mosque, wear modest attire (women may need to cover hair). Just use common courtesy during evening prayers (remove hats, be quiet during services).
Are there any rules or restrictions to be aware of?
Hakkı Tarık Us Street is a public road, but keep in mind it’s a residential and historic area. Don’t loiter around doorways or make loud noise, especially in the early morning or during evening prayers. There is no alcohol sold on this street (as per local custom near the mosque). Shawarma or any fast food vendors are allowed on neighboring alleys, so you won’t find liquor stores in immediate view. Aside from these norms, treat it like any city street – no plainclothes guards, no search at entry, and pets on a leash are allowed.
What was the former name of Hakkı Tarık Us Street?
Before being renamed, this street was called “Tereke Sokak.” The name was officially changed in the late 20th century to honor Hakkı Tarık Us (pdfcoffee.com ). Historical records show that the street’s transformation into “Hakkı Tarık Us Sokak” coincided with the establishment of the nearby Tarık Us Primary School.
Are there any recurring festivals or cultural events here?
The street itself does not host annual festivals. However, sometimes cultural heritage walks and journalism talks include it as a stop. During bigger city-wide events like Istanbul Book Fair or Press Freedom Week, organizers might do an informal rally or commemoration here, but nothing on a fixed schedule. If a local ceremony is planned (for example on the anniversary of Us’s birthday), it’s usually announced by local press or institutions rather than being open-ticket. Otherwise, treat a visit here like a stroll – no special events to time your trip to.
Is the street lit up for special occasions or decorations?
Not really. Hakkı Tarık Us Street itself is simple and typically does not get festive lighting except standard streetlamps. During Ramadan the mosque and nearby square are decorated with lights and lanterns, which spill onto the street. On national holidays (like Republic Day), Turkish flags are sometimes hung on balconies or in the mosque yard, but there are no special neon lights or banners installed. The street sign remains ordinary teal/white year-round. Essentially, plan to see it as-is rather than during a light-show.
