Kadife sokak

Slipping through time’s velvet curtain, we find ourselves on Kadife Sokak. This isn’t just any street in Kadıköy. Kadife Sokak pulses with a unique energy, a blend of old and new Istanbul. Kadife Sokak translates to “Velvet Street”. It earned this name in the early 20th century. Small shops selling velvet lined the street, giving it a luxurious feel. Imagine strolling down this lane, the soft fabrics brushing against your fingertips. This street was once home to Armenian families. Over time, it transformed into the vibrant bar street we see today. The remnants of its past whisper through the converted houses. These now house trendy cafes and lively bars, each with its own story to tell. Early in its history, Kadife Sokak housed a prominent theatre. Turks called it “Apollon Tiyatrosu”. The Greek community knew it as “Theatron Halkidonas” or Kadıköy Theatre. Built in 1873 by the Greek community, the theatre thrived for decades. Even the renowned Turkish actress Afife Jale graced its stage in the 1920s. By the 1960s, the theatre curtain fell for the last time. The building was demolished, making way for the Rexx Cinema. This cinema became a landmark, further shaping Kadife Sokak’s identity. Even today, the street is sometimes referred to as “Rexx Sineması’nın sokağı”, or “Rexx Cinema’s street”. Kadife Sokak continues to evolve. It’s a place where the echoes of history mingle with the laughter and music of today. It is a testament to Istanbul’s ever-changing nature, a place where the past and present dance together on a street paved with velvet memories.