Here are some pictures that I took at the Vefa Lisesi, dating from 1872 and – I was told – the first school of this kind in Istanbul, and famous for the quality of its teaching. To the south there is a part where the school grounds touch the grounds of the Şezade Mosque, with some fine old houses. I went inside the school to find some pupils training for a performance, loud Mehter music filled the hall. The staircase I photographed for former pupils, to reminisce.