Babylon, Istanbul

Babylon is a music venue that has significantly shaped the cultural and musical landscape of Istanbul since its inception. Opened on April 23, 1999, by Pozitif, Babylon made its debut with a concert featuring John Lurie & the Lounge Lizards, marking the beginning of a new era in the city's music scene. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Beyoğlu, this venue quickly became renowned for hosting a wide array of music genres and performances from both local and international artists.

In 2010, Babylon expanded its offerings by launching the Lounge restaurant, situated just a street behind the main venue. This addition introduced "happy hours," warm-ups, and after-parties accompanied by various DJs, enriching the overall experience for attendees. These gatherings, held before and after concerts, provided a space for audiences to dine and relax, enhancing the social and cultural atmosphere of the venue.

Over the years, Babylon has welcomed hundreds of bands and organized over 1,500 concerts, with the ability to accommodate up to 450 standing or 350 seated and standing guests. Its commitment to presenting the best of progressive and diverse music has made it a hub for music enthusiasts, hosting legendary artists such as Sun Ra Arkestra, Jimmy Scott, Jane Birkin, Patti Smith, Marianne Faithfull, Thurston Moore, Macy Gray, Charles Bradley, Lykke Li, Diplo, and Apparat, among others.