The Galata Tower is a real symbol of Istanbul, it is depicted in paintings, souvenirs are made with it and once they see it they cannot forget.
Galata Tower is the best observation deck to enjoy the view of unforgettable Istanbul. It is located on a high hill in the Beyoglu district near Istiklal Street and is clearly visible from any part of the city.
The height of the Galata Tower is 66.9 m, the diameter is 8.95 meters, the wall thickness is 3.75 m. It rises 140 meters above sea level.
Opening hours: 09:00 – 24:00
Address: Bereketzade Mahallesi, Galata Kulesi Sk., 34421 Beyoğlu/Istanbul, Turkey
Official website: muze.gen.tr
Phone number: +90 212 293 57 07
The history of the Galata Tower
The Galata Tower has a centuries-old history. It is believed that it was built in 507 AD during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian and was originally wooden. In 1348, a stone tower was erected on the same site.
In 1453, when the Turks conquered Byzantium, the tower was captured by them. Consistently, it served as a lighthouse for merchant ships, an observatory, a fire tower and even a prison. The last reconstruction ended in 1967 – the dome was rebuilt, elevators appeared, one of the upper floors was used for a restaurant.
The structure is also known as the Hezarfen Tower, it is with it that the famous flight of the “Turkish Icarus” is associated. In 1638, the experimental scientist Hezarfen Ahmet Cheliabi flew from its roof to the Asian shore of the Bosphorus on his own designed glider.
Observation deck of the tower
Today, the Galata Tower is popular not only as an observation deck, but also as a restaurant. After all, what could be more beautiful than having breakfast or dinner with such a view.
In the restaurant you can taste dishes of both Turkish and international cuisine.
The prices in the restaurant are very high, but it’s definitely worth drinking a cup of coffee or tea in such a place.
On the ground floor you can buy souvenirs with the image of the tower.
Choosing where to look at Istanbul, visit the Galata Tower and enjoy the beautiful view.
You can read this article Russian language: Почему стоит посетить Галатскую башню?
