ISTANBUL
The Symbols of Istanbul
In this article, we have noted the places that have become the symbols of Istanbul and must be visited for you.
Maiden’s Tower (Tower of Leandros) – Kız Kulesi
The history of the Maiden’s Tower, which has become the symbol of the Üsküdar district of Istanbul, dates to BC. This building, which was built by the Byzantines, first hosted a tomb, and then was used as a customs station with an additional building built next to it. During the Ottoman period, this tower was used for various functions, from the quarantine zone to the place of exile and defense castle. The Maiden’s Tower was restored in 2000 and started to be used as a restaurant.
Bosphorus Bridge – Boğaziçi Köprüsü
The Bosphorus Bridge, which is also called the First Bridge among the people because it is the first bridge built over the Bosphorus; It is a suspension bridge between Ortaköy and Beylerbeyi, which connects Asia and Europe by road. The idea of connecting the continents of Asia and Europe with a bridge and crossing easily has been on the agenda throughout history. Finally, the idea that had existed for years was implemented. The Bosphorus Bridge, which was started to be built in 1970 and put into service in 1973, is one of the symbols of Istanbul, which you will definitely encounter with its perfect view when you come to Istanbul.
The Hagia Sophia – Ayasofya
Hagia Sophia, which was built 3 times in the same place as one of the most famous places of worship in the world, took its final form in 537. Originally built by the eastern Roman emperor Justinian I as the Christian cathedral of Constantinople for the state church of the Roman Empire between 532 and 537 and designed by the Greek geometers Isidore of Miletus and Anthemius of Tralles, it was formally called the Church of the Holy Wisdom. After the conquest of Istanbul by the Ottoman Empire, it was arranged and used as a mosque.
The Galata Tower
The tower, which was built by the Genoese who were engaged in trade as a watchtower on the highest point of the Galata Walls, is today an exhibition space and museum, one of the symbols of Beyoğlu and Istanbul.
It is believed that Galata tower also has a magic. It is said that the couples who went to the tower together got married later.
In addition to the beauty of the tower, you can visit old churches, various souvenir shops and small restaurants on the street leading to Galata.
There are many places to visit in and around Galata Tower. The square under the tower attracts thousands of people. Thanks to the landscaping, various art galleries and boutique cafes; Also known as Galata Kuledibi, the square has become a great tourist attraction.
The Basilica Cistern – Yerebatan Sarnıcı
he cistern, which was built by Emperor Justinian I in the Byzantine Period in 532 to meet the water needs of the palace, still amazes those who see it with its eye-catching columns and Medusa statue. According to some, Medusa has the power to protect, and this power is to protect the whole city. According to some, it was placed in the cistern only out of necessity in order to support the columns physically.
Nowadays, it is used as a museum and event venue with its magical atmosphere.
Topkapı Palace
Topkapi Palace, where the history and magnificent structure of the Ottoman Empire reigned for 400 years, where the sultans and their families lived. You can relive the history by visiting the palace where the most pompous days of the Ottoman Empire, enthronement ceremonies, sad stories and intrigues were experienced.
In the important parts of the palace, there is the “Harem” section, the “Hırka-ı Saadet” section and the “Has Oda” section, the “Babü’s Saade” section and the “Köşkler Garden” section.
The Grand Bazaar – Kapalıçarşı
One of the most popular stops is the Grand Bazaar in Beyazıt, which has been standing for 550 years. In the Ottoman Period, the covered bazaars in the Bedesten were not only a treasury where the valuables of the palace were protected, but also a financial center that led to the accumulation of capital through trade. You will see how lively trade is in Istanbul’s oldest bazaar and everything sold here reflects the spirit of Istanbul.
Dolmabahçe Palace
This Dolmabahçe Palace, which was built by the Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecit in 1856 on the shores of the Bosphorus, is one of the most important landmarks of Istanbul with its magnificent appearance bearing the traces of Western architecture. Dolmabahçe Palace, one of the largest palaces in Turkey, has a special spiritual value as it is the place where Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, spent his last days.
İstiklal Street
Istiklal street is also the most cosmopolitan area of Turkey without exception. Istiklal Street, which is an indispensable place for foreign and domestic visitors to Istanbul, is always crowded. It is a very large street with a variety of restaurants and bars, from world-famous clothing brands to cheap arcades. It is also the place where a lot of cultural events take place.
