History of the Jews in Istanbul

Istanbul became one of the world's most important Jewish centers in the 16th and 17th centuries. The origins of the Jewish community in Istanbul date back long before the Fall of Constantinople. Official documents refer to Jews in Constantinople as early as 390 CE.

In marked contrast to Jews in Europe, Ottoman Jews were allowed to work in any profession and could also enter the Ottoman court. Ottoman Jews in Istanbul excelled in commerce and trade and came to dominate the medical profession. Despite making up only 10% of the city population, Jews constituted 62% of licensed doctors in 1600.