When is the best time to visit the Galata Tower? Galata Tower. Views of Istanbul from the top of the Galata Tower

There is no exact information left about the construction date of the Galata Tower, but it is stated that it was built in 507 AD. e. during the reign of Emperor Justinian. As historians say, back in the 5th century AD. e. There was a tower in this vicinity. However, the tower that has survived to our time dates back to 1348 - 1349. At that time, the Genoese dominated these lands. The Genoese captured the Byzantine areas and then built a tower there for defensive purposes and called it the "Tower of Jesus", and under this name it became one of the most important components of the 14th century fortification system that surrounded Galata. The Byzantines called it Great Tower. To protective structures Genoese fortress in addition to towers and walls, there were also fortress moats, as evidenced by the names of the old streets located next to the tower: Büyük Handek, which means Big Ditch, and Küçük Handek - Small Ditch.

The tower stands on the slope of a hill, on the so-called Galata Summit, located in the European part of the city. The tower was built in such a place that it is clearly visible from almost all points of the city. From its top a magnificent panorama opens up, which attracts the attention of tourists and guests of the city.

As a result of the earthquake that occurred in 1509, the tower was seriously damaged, and then was restored and built on under the leadership of the famous Turkish Ottoman architect Hayreddin. The height of the Galata Tower today is 66.90 m, its external and internal diameters are 16.45 m and 8.95 m, respectively. The thickness of the wall is 3.75 m, and the height above sea level is 140 m.

In the 16th century, prisoners of war were kept in the tower. The prisoners were then usually sent onto the galleys as slaves for the Ottoman arsenal, which was located in the Golden Horn at Kasimpassa.

During the reign of Suleiman II in 1566-1574. The tower was used as an observation post by the famous Turkish astronomer Takiuddin. Its main observatory was located in Pera. During the reign of Mustafa II in 1695 - 1703. Feyzullah Effendi attempted to establish an astronomical observatory here with the help of a Jesuit priest, but all his efforts were reduced to zero. He was killed in 1703, and the tower, which served as an observatory, was closed by Sultan Murad III and again turned into a prison for convicts who worked at the Kasimpasa shipyard.

In the 17th century, during the Ottoman period, the Galata Tower acquired a new name - Hezarfen Kulesi, which means Hezarfen Tower. This name was assigned to it under Sultan Murad IV after the inventor Hezarfen Ahmet Çelebi made wings for himself in 1638 and successfully flew from Galata to Üsküdar. The intrepid handyman used the top floor of the tower as a launching pad. He became the first aeronaut in Turkey.

In the tower, closer to the 17th century, a brigade of firefighters, called mechters in those days, was stationed. After 1717, the Galata Tower became the main observation point of the city and from its upper platform, special observers conducted a constant survey of the surrounding area day and night, and at the first detection of signs of smoke or fire in one of the areas, they beat a large drum, notifying firefighters and citizens of the danger. . However, by an ironic coincidence, it was during a fire that broke out in 1794 that the tower burned down. It was restored during the reign of Sultan Suleiman III. A jumba, a so-called ledge with railings, was added to the top floor. In 1831 there was a second fire at the tower. After this, the tower was repaired by order of Sultan Mahmud II and two more levels and the famous conical roof were erected, and a stele was installed with an inscription about the restoration of the tower, which belonged to the pen of Pertev Pasha. During a severe storm in 1875, the cone roof was demolished.

The Galata Tower was restored in 1967 by the Istanbul Municipality. The conical roof was placed again on top of the tower. The steep spiral stone staircase was also reconstructed. In order for tired tourists to find an alternative to the steep climb up it, two elevators were installed inside the tower. And for those who like to look at the landscapes of Istanbul, there is a balcony on the top floor. There is also a restaurant, cafeteria and night club. Galata Tower is loved in Turkey as a symbol that reminds them of the past. If you want to watch a colorful show, "belly dance" performed by local beauties, or try dishes local cuisine, then you just need to visit the Galata Tower in the evening.

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) is one of the most famous landmarks of Istanbul. It is located in the European part of the city, in the Beyoğlu district, at the end of Istiklal caddesi street.

The tower can be seen from almost all points of the city. Its dimensions are amazing: the height from the base to the top is 61 meters with a circumference of 9 meters. If we talk about the height of the object relative to sea level, then this figure is even more impressive - 140 meters.

This is not only a historical monument, but also a magnificent observation deck, which offers magnificent views of Istanbul and the surrounding area.

Observation deck of the Galata Tower

The history of the tower dates back to 507 AD. At this time, all power in the country belonged to the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. During this period, construction from stone was not developed, so the tower was originally made of wood. It acquired stone walls much later - in the middle of the 14th century.

A century later, Byzantium submitted to the Turkish invaders, and the Ottomans equipped the Galata Tower to suit their needs. Initially, a lighthouse was placed at the very top of it, helping merchant ships not to stray from their intended course. Then an observatory was placed within the tower walls. Later it was given the role of a fire tower, and the lower tier was given over to prison cells for prisoners.

The Galata Tower is visible from many points in Istanbul

The top of the tower was cone-shaped. It acquired its modern appearance with a dome in the middle of the 20th century, after another reconstruction.

Interesting one unusual historical fact associated with the tower. The famous Ottoman innovator and experimenter Ahmet Çelebi, wearing a unique aircraft in the shape of wings, jumped from its top and flew across the entire Bosphorus.

The Galata Tower offers a magnificent view

Initially, the tower was built as a lighthouse that could illuminate the road at night and guide merchant ships when passing through the Bosphorus Strait. It was for this purpose that the tower was used for a very long time.

Night view of the Galata Tower

In 1967, the Galata Tower was restored.

The main purpose of the modern Galata Tower, which today is a museum object, is an observation deck. From a bird's eye view there are magnificent views of the city and its surroundings. There are 143 steps and an elevator leading to the top.

Travelers themselves choose which option is more comfortable for them. At altitude, you can not only admire Istanbul, but also do it while sitting at the table of a cozy, albeit expensive restaurant.

On the lower floor there is a souvenir shop where you can buy a mini-copy of the Galata Tower.

The magical picture that opens before the eyes of tourists is definitely worth visiting these walls at least once in your life. This is perhaps the only opportunity to see Istanbul in full view, unless, of course, you fly over the city on a private plane. For those who come to this Turkish metropolis for the first time, it is advisable to start getting acquainted with it from the top of the Galata Tower.

Cost of visiting the Galata Tower in 2019 and how to get there

Galata Tower is located next to Istiklal Street

The tower is open to tourists from 09:00 to 20:30.

Cost of visit for local residents and foreigners are different:

For tourists 35 Turkish lira (children under 5 years old free).
For local residents, admission costs 25 liras.

In the cafe at the Galata Tower the cost of drinks is as follows:

Tea - 6 Turkish lira;
Coffee 8 Turkish lira;
Coca-Cola - 8 Turkish lira;
Soda 6 Turkish lira.

As already noted, the Galata Tower is located on the European side of Istanbul, in the Beyoglu district, or more precisely in Galata. You can get to it in several ways.

The simplest of them is from the Taksim region. You can first get to Taksim in any way convenient for you, or if you are already here, then there are 2 options:

Walk along the Istiklal promenade from Taksim Square to its opposite end, and from there, at a distance of about 400 meters, there is a tower.
The second way is to ride along Istiklal from Taksim Square on the famous red tram, which will drop you off at the end of the street, and then you will also walk further.

If you are far from the Taksim or Galata areas, then, depending on where you are, take a ferry (if you are coming from the Asian part of the city) or by light rail(if you are on the European side) get to the Karaköy pier or stop. Next you need to walk up the mountain towards Istiklal Street.

Be sure to walk along the streets adjacent to the Galata Tower - here you can drink coffee, buy souvenirs or postcards with images of the Tower.

Galata Tower on the map

Address: Büyük Hendek Caddesi, Galata.
Opening hours: in summer from 09:00 to 19:00;
winter period from 09:00 to 17:00.
Cost of visit observation deck: 18.5 TL.

Galata Tower - the silent guardian of the Golden Horn

Istanbul- a city of volcanic energy, overflowing with oriental exoticism inherent in Asia, at the same time it is too comfortable, not allowing you to forget that this is also Europe. From many of its points one can see Bosphorus, Golden Horn and, of course, Galata Tower, carrying a tireless watch for many centuries, silently watching from above the ferries departing from the piers, snow-white liners, the hurrying crowd, calls, magnetically attracts.

The story of the Galata Tower - if the stones could talk...

Shrouded in legends, tragic and happy stories, the grandiose structure has seen a lot in its lifetime: it has witnessed the change of empires, bringing to us the history of the distant past. How much its walls could tell...
Even at the end of the 5th century. this place housed a large dairy market, surrounded by expansive pastures with lush herbs. The area was called Galata, perhaps due to the Gauls living there. At its highest point stood a wooden lighthouse, preventing ships entering the troubled waters from going astray. Bosphorus.
Helping Byzantium fight its enemies in the 13th century, the Genoese received these lands as a gift, establishing a colony. Work was in full swing day and night on the construction of residential buildings, warehouses, and marinas. Having surrounded them with a reliable fence with pointed battlements and a deep insurmountable ditch, the hardworking people turned the territory into an impregnable fortress. In 1348, the lighthouse was replaced by a gigantic 70-meter stone tower with a diameter of 9 m with thick walls reaching 4 m, with a total weight of about 10 thousand tons. Having installed a cross at the top, they called it the “Tower of Christ” (or the Cross). From the top the sea distances opened up, not a single passing ship went unnoticed.
1453 became fatal for the Byzantine Empire. The Turks burst into Constantinople and took possession of it. The conquerors destroyed everything in their path: they burned homes, robbed, killed, and abused them. “Who will tell about the crying and screams of children, about the insane scream of their mothers, about the sobs of fathers - who will tell?” The Genoese decided not to leave native land, were ready to die. By order of Mehmed, a dome with a cross fell to the ground, and a pointed spire rose to the heavens. The height of the giant structure decreased by almost 7 m. The lower floor turned into a prison.
Rulers changed, bringing changes to the fate of the majestic building. Murad III, having carried out reconstruction, decided to place an observatory in it. People have long been attracted to the sky, beckoned, and fascinated by the thought of flight. They wanted to fly like birds. Many tried, but fell hopelessly. One day, one daredevil managed to do it.

Turkish Icarus

In 1630, the talented scientist Hezarfen Ahmed Celebi was lucky enough to make extraordinary wings. Rising to the top Galata Tower, having attached them, waited for a fair wind, stepped into the void and... flew. Hundreds of people watched him with bated breath. From the Topkapi Palace, the then reigning Sultan Murad IV personally observed the daredevil. He refused to believe: the man, like a bird, flew, soared over the turquoise surface of the strait and landed safely on the Asian shore. The flight lasted more than 3 km. Incredible victory! A unique case! The delighted Sultan rewarded the “flyer” with a purse of gold. The clergy did not like such success. They managed to convince the ruler that only the Prophet Muhammad could ascend to heaven and return; it was not appropriate for an ordinary person to do this. A decisive act does not require reward, but execution. By order of the ruler, the intrepid hero was sent into exile, where the poor fellow died. The greatest beautiful human achievement has come to a sad end. And the tower was named for a long time in honor of the brave man, Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi.

The vicissitudes of fate

After further restoration work on the upper part in 1883, the building was given a modern look: it was painted white and yellow, a viewing platform appeared, from which fires and the slightest disturbances were monitored around the clock, which were immediately suppressed. In case of danger, the guards on duty signaled with flags during the day and with lanterns at night. The alarm was sounded on special drums that replaced the bell.
However, ironically, this did not save the campanile from the fires that occurred during the reign of Selim III. People looked with horror and tears in their eyes at the building that had become dear to them, engulfed in flames. The fire was extinguished, the blackened, smoky surface looked pitiful and cried out for help. The padishah gave the order to immediately restore the building. Before it had time to shine in all its newness, one hot August day it caught fire again, acquiring a deplorable state.

Rising from the Ashes

Major repairs were carried out under Mahmud II, after which the building was transformed, as we see it today. In the 18th century the world's first military orchestra was located here, delighting with music, giving the townspeople a signal about the approach of midnight.
Neither fires, nor bloody wars, nor civil strife broke this wonderful landmark, the pride of Istanbul residents. She swam majestically and proudly through the centuries like a guard, vigilantly keeping an eye on the surroundings. By 1967, it was completely restored, rewarding its long, centuries-long service with a beautiful conical roof. She rose, resurrected, became more beautiful than before, attracting the attention of artists who captured her splendor on canvas, poets who sang her in their lines, among which, unfortunately, there are also gloomy notes.
The famous Turkish writer Umit Yasar Ouzcan describes an incident that happened here with a guy who climbed up on a wonderful sunny day observation point and stepped from it into eternity, “throwing into the air the Spring of his life along with all his hopes, broken into pieces.” Every word is saturated with pain, inhuman suffering, because it was his son who crashed. What made a young, 23-year-old, handsome, energetic young man kill himself? Unrequited love, betrayal? Perhaps he entrusted the secret to these stones, but they are silent...
Campanile rises 140 m above sea level. From the shores Golden Horn it is separated by 425 m. It’s no secret: if you don’t go up to the observation deck, where your soul will freeze from dizzying heights(61 m), you will take your breath away from contemplating the charming picturesque picture, consider that you have not seen the divine beauty of the real Istanbul.

Panorama from the sky

The wall at the entrance is decorated with 16 lines of praise and gratitude dedicated to Mahmud II, who managed to help the building be revived and return to its former greatness. As many as 9 floors rush into the sky, on the last there is an observation area at 3600. Starting from the sixth, narrow elongated windows let in light; on the ninth they are spacious with large arches. On the door of the elevator, which quickly delivers tourists to the seventh floor, there is a bronze portrait of Suleiman, painted by the court artist Matrakchi Nasuh Efendi. Upon leaving, visitors will look at the relief image of the local Icarus. The remaining two tiers will have to be conquered on foot along the spiral staircase.
A small door will lead out to the observation area. A strong wind with a salty taste of the sea, an ordinary companion in the skies, will hit your face. The words will disappear in an instant, the breath will be taken away from the view: the arrows of skyscrapers rush to the heavens, the sun-lit candles of the minarets of Yeni Valide, St. Sophia, the Blue Mosque. And behind them is an endless sea washing the shores. Hidden in the haze are the silhouettes of the Princes' Islands - a small paradise on the planet, where ships constantly leave, plowing the gray Sea of Marmara. Everything is in full view - all Istanbul, fussy, always in a hurry - a magical fairy tale of the East, as its living symbols - seagulls - are used to seeing. The panorama is worth it to overcome the involuntary, painful fear of heights to be here. She amazes, bewitches, captivates...
The colorful roofs of buildings and numerous narrow streets are striking, where, as if in an anthill, people are scurrying around, rushing, seething, and seething with life. From here it is especially noticeable how densely populated the city is. It is impossible to describe the emotions that overwhelm the soul; it must be seen.
Do you want to witness the most amazing sunset in the world? Send the tired Istanbul sun to rest. The black dome of the night sky, dotted with huge stars, is mesmerizing and has become much closer. Fantastic picture! For an avid photographer - a real holiday! In a cozy restaurant or nightclub you can have a snack with an appetite, relax, admiring amazing oriental dances and enjoying songs.

The ancient marvelous city, spread out under your feet in all its charm and splendor, is worth that portion of adrenaline and fear. In return, you will receive a feeling of delight and a feeling of happiness that overwhelms your soul, which you will never forget. Only people with a callous, blind heart can remain indifferent, not noticing, not appreciating. After all, “you cannot see the most important thing with your eyes - only your heart is vigilant.”

Guide to Istanbul on our website.

Basic moments

The first wooden tower on Galata Hill appeared in the 5th century. And the tower that can be seen today was built by the Genoese in the middle of the 14th century. In the Middle Ages, the Galata Tower served as an observatory, lookout and prison. It became the place from which the first Turkish aeronaut, Hezarfen, made a successful flight.

In the 1960s old tower restored, and its dome acquired a conical appearance. After some time, two elevators were built here. Today, the monument of Genoese architecture is a museum object and has a good observation deck from which it is pleasant to admire the beauties of Istanbul.

Galata Tower on the panorama of Istanbul

History of the Galata Tower

The tower, which has survived to this day, appeared on Galata Hill in 1348-1349, when the Genoese conquered these lands. The powerful structure was called the “Tower of Jesus” (in Latin “Christea Turris”). The tall stone building had walls up to 3.5 m thick, a diameter of 9 m and served as an excellent landmark for sailors. In addition, it was an important part of the defensive structures that surrounded Galata. In addition to towers and stone walls, the Genoese line of fortifications included wide fortress moats. The fact that they existed is today reminded by the names of two small streets next to the Galata Tower - Büyük Handek (“Big Ditch”) and Küçük Handek (“Small Ditch”).

Under the Genoese, the suburb of Constantinople where the tower stood was called “Pera e sica”, which means “fig garden on the other side”, because of its dense thickets of fig trees. And the name “Galata” was assigned to the hill later, starting in the 15th century.

Historically, ambassadors of foreign states who maintained diplomatic relations with the Ottoman Empire built their residences here. Following the palaces of the ambassadors, luxurious mansions of the Turkish nobility, entertainment venues and luxury shops appeared on the hill near the Galata Tower. Due to the strong influence of Europeans, the residents of Istanbul even called Galata “the city of infidels.”

Ancient Istanbul suffered from earthquakes from time to time. One of them happened in 1509. The tremors were so strong that the high-rise structure could not stand and collapsed. There is information that the restoration and addition of the Galata Tower was carried out by the architect Hayreddin.

During the reign of Sultan Murad III, an observatory was placed at the top of the Galata Tower, and the lower floors of the building were used as a prison. Later, permanent watches were organized here so that watchmen could monitor the occurrence of fires and riots. When they noticed a fire, they notified the city residents about it by beating a large drum.

Then the tower received a new name - Hezarfen Kulesi. This happened after the brave Turk and inquisitive scientist Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi managed to accomplish the unprecedented - fly on homemade wings across the Bosphorus Strait. In 1632, a brave balloonist jumped from the top platform of the Galata Tower, thanks to gusts of tailwind, crossed the sea strait and landed safely on the opposite side of the Bosphorus, on Dogancilar Square.

The unique flight of the Turkish Icarus was observed by the Ottoman ruler, Sultan Murad IV, who was delighted with Hezarfen’s courage and publicly announced that the one who made the flight was not afraid of anything and could achieve whatever he wanted. However, the ruler’s advisers convinced him, explaining that the presence of such people in Istanbul was hardly worth welcoming. The Sultan gave Hezarfen a purse of gold and sent him into exile in Algeria. There the Turkish aeronaut ended his days at the age of 31. Today, the name of the brave Hezarfen is named after a small private airfield, which is located 20 km west of international airport named after Ataturk.

Over the course of its long history, the Galata Tower has been reconstructed several times. The first time this happened was when the empire was led by Mehmed II the Conqueror, who went down in history under the name Fatih. The tower was rebuilt in the middle of the 15th century, after the ruler’s troops captured Constantinople. The Sultan ordered the dome of the building to be dismantled, and it became lower by 6.8 m.

After reconstruction in 1791, the Galata Tower decreased even more - to 45 meters. In 1832, the structure, on the contrary, was built on, making an observation deck at the top. And after 43 years, the time has come for the next construction work, and the tower acquired modern features.

The latest large-scale reconstruction historical monument city authorities spent from 1964 to 1967. The building was covered with a cone-shaped roof and elevators were installed inside. From now on, visitors have a choice. Those who want to quickly get to the top of the Galata Tower use the elevators. And those who are more patient and physically strong choose the tedious climb up the stone steps of the ancient spiral staircase.

Excursion to the Galata Tower

Nowadays, there is an observation deck at the top of the historical and architectural monument. It is located at an altitude of 137 meters above sea level and is very popular among tourists. Many travelers specifically come to the tower to take a detailed look at the streets and buildings of Galata, the Pera district, the Old City and the neighborhoods on the right bank of the Golden Horn Bay. From the Galata Tower you can see the opposite shore of the Bosphorus, and in good weather The Princes' Islands or Kyzyladalar located in the Sea of Marmara are clearly visible.

In addition, you can have a good time in a restaurant, nightclub and cafeteria. The observation deck is open to visitors seven days a week from 9.00 to 20.00, and the restaurant welcomes guests until 24.00.

How to get there

The Galata Tower stands in historical center Istanbul, 2.2 km north of the famous Sultanahmet Square. It is convenient to get from the Old Town to the tower by tram. You need to go to the Karakoy stop, which is located immediately behind the Galata Bridge. And then you walk up steep, cobblestone streets to the Galata Tower.

Not only Byzantium and Ottoman Empire, but also the state of Genoa. After capturing Byzantine lands on the northern shore of the Golden Horn Bay, the Genoese founded their colony there.

It was built to protect it defensive tower, which has become one of the iconic landmarks of modern Istanbul. Over hundreds of years, it has changed more than one name and is now known as the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi).

In contact with

After the conquest of Constantinople and the Genoese colony by the Ottomans, the Galata Tower in Istanbul used to hold prisoners. Only during the reign of Suleiman II did its purpose become more peaceful: the court astronomer began to use it as an observatory.

Subsequently, the observatory's equipment fell into disrepair, and all attempts to restore it failed. In the 18th century, the lower part was again used as a prison, and its upper part became an observation deck for fire brigades.

Throughout its existence, it was subjected to repeated destruction. In 1509 it was badly damaged by an earthquake, and later often burned during city fires. But each time the residents and city authorities patiently restored it. It acquired its modern appearance after reconstruction in 1967, when the observation deck was covered with a cone-shaped roof.

Description

The height is 61 meters, and taking into account the hill on which it stands, the tower rises 141 meters above the surrounding city. For a long time this was the most high building near. The thickness of the walls is striking, which is about 3 meters.

Currently, the Galata Tower operates as a tourist attraction. To make it easier for tourists to overcome 9 floors, during the last reconstruction, 2 elevators were launched inside.

Most visitors come here with a purpose enjoy the magnificent views opening from the observation deck. In addition, from the observation deck you can clearly see ferries and even ferries scurrying along the Bosphorus Strait. The image of this iconic landmark for Istanbul can be found on many souvenirs and photographs of the city.

Local informal youth often gather around it, and during a walk here you can get acquainted with the customs of the indigenous inhabitants of the city. On the upper floors there is a restaurant and nightclub GALATA NIGHT CLUB, where you can see national Turkish dances.

For informational purposes, we present to you several photographs taken by tourists.

Contacts

The Galata Tower is located in the Beyoğlu area near the Galata Bridge. You will find information about the districts of Istanbul, and about bridges. The exact address: Galata Kulesi Sokak, Galata, Istanbul. The most convenient way to get here from the old city is by tram, getting off at the Karaköy stop. From here you can climb the streets on your own, or you can take the underground funicular, which is called the Tünel.

If you are staying far from the city center, then you need to get to the Taksim metro station. From Taksim Square you can walk along Istiklal Street (İstiklal caddesi), which, due to its architecture, is also a landmark of Istanbul. It can be seen from almost anywhere in the city center, so it’s impossible to get lost. To get acquainted with the streets of the city, visit.

- a very convenient service, because this way you can manage your time on vacation yourself.
The ancient cities of Turkey are perfect for lovers of antiquity and history, because only in these places every corner is imbued with the mystery and mystery of the past. More detailed information You can find out about the legends associated with the ancient cities of Turkey by following the following link.

The observation deck is open to visitors every day, from 9.00 to 19.00 in summer and from 9.00 to 17.00 in winter. The restaurant and nightclub are open from 9.00 to 24.00. The ticket price in 2013 was 13 Turkish lira. All changes in work can be found on the website //www.galatatower.net.

It is important to know

Most beautiful view view of Istanbul from the observation deck at sunset, when the city appears in all its glory, skillfully illuminated. But we must remember that there are a lot of people who want to watch the sunset at the Galata Tower and allow time for queuing