Galata Tower

Galata Tower is one of the oldest towers in the world. It was built in 528 as a lighthouse by the order of Byzantine Emperor Anastasius. The tower was badly damaged in 1204. It was rebuilt by the Genoese using masonry stones in 1348 and named the "Tower of Christ.” The reconstruction was completed in 1348 and it became the largest building in the city. Galata Tower was built in a bigger form between 1445 and 1446. It was used as a fire observatory in 1717.

But most of the Galata Tower burned in a fire that broke out during the reign of Selim III. The tower was repaired after the fire and was damaged and repaired once again after another fire in 1831. The tower collapsed in a storm in 1875. The repair efforts were initiated in 1965 and completed in 1967, giving the Galata Tower its present look. Galata Tower is in the Bereketzade area of the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul.

A part of the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List since 2013, the 62 meters tall tower offers a full panoramic view of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. You can have your meal at the restaurant, located on the tower where Hezarfen Ahmet Çelebi started his flight towards Üsküdar, or you can go here just to enjoy the view. Galata is also one of the increasingly vibrant city centers of recent years, offering the chance to visit galleries, shop in boutiques, or taste some of the city's most delicious coffees.

Galata Tower stands as a testament to Istanbul's rich history, having endured centuries of transformations and challenges. Originally serving as a lighthouse during the Byzantine era, its subsequent iterations under various rulers reflect the city's dynamic cultural tapestry.

Rebuilt by the Genoese in the 14th century, the tower's significance evolved, earning the moniker "Tower of Christ." Its strategic position offered commanding views of the city and surrounding waters, making it a symbol of power and authority.

Despite enduring fires, storms, and collapses, the tower's resilience shines through in its enduring presence on Istanbul's skyline. The restoration efforts in the 20th century not only preserved its architectural integrity but also reaffirmed its status as a cherished landmark.

Today, Galata Tower not only provides visitors with breathtaking vistas but also serves as a hub of cultural activity. The surrounding Beyoğlu district buzzes with life, offering a blend of contemporary art, fashion, and culinary delights.

Whether savoring a meal at the tower's restaurant or exploring the vibrant streets below, visitors can immerse themselves in Istanbul's timeless charm while gazing upon the iconic silhouette of Galata Tower, a beacon of the city's storied past and vibrant present.