Balat is known for its colorful houses that stand out with their architecture and atmosphere. These houses include small, multi-story structures, often painted in vibrant colors such as blue, pink, green, yellow, and red. Decorated with ornate wooden balconies, shutters, and various decorative elements, these houses determine the character of the district.
The tradition of colorfully painting houses dates back to the Ottoman period when residents had to paint them in certain colors to reflect their religious beliefs. Greeks preferred blue, Jews preferred yellow, and Armenians preferred red. However, over time, people turned to a wider color range, adding a different atmosphere to the district.
In recent years, many houses in Balat have been restored and preserved through the government's efforts to revitalize the neighborhood and conservation programs. Today, Balat's colorful houses offer a beauty worth seeing, attracting the attention of tourists and visitors.