Through the efforts of the Istanbul-based Union of Armenian Architects (HAYCAR), the Modern Art Museum of Istanbul and the Hrant Dink Foundation, the Museum of Architecture of Istanbul has opened an online exhibition called “The Armenian Architects of the Westernizing Istanbul”, reported the official website of the Museum.

It is mentioned that Armenian architects have played a huge role in the Westernization of Istanbul, the advancement of local architecture and have always had their place in the Union of Architects in the Ottoman Empire.

The authors have particularly focused on the history of the Balyan family of architects, stressing the fact that almost all of the remarkable palaces of Ottoman sultans of the 19^th century were built by the Balyans.

Let us mention that the extended family of the Balyans, who were originally from the city of Kesaria, was one of the most famous families of architects of the Ottoman era and created most of the most famous palaces and mosques of Istanbul. However, Turkey avoids talking about the Armenian descent of the Balyans, and tour guides often refer to them as the “Balian” Italian family when they take tourists on tours.