Galata Tower
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During the Byzantine period, colonies coming from Venice were living in Galata. However, since they always struggled amongst themselves and with Byzantines, the district was handed over to their eternal rivals, the Genoeses. The Genoeses established a settlement resembling Genova with uneven narrow streets. The remaining city walls were knocked down by Sultan Mehmet, the Conqueror in the 15th century and the Galata Tower remains as a memory of those times.
This 12-story tower, built in the 14th century most probably on the lingering remains of an older tower indicated the north point of the Genoeses settlement and it was surrounded by ditches. The streets around (Büyük Hendek – Big Ditch and Kücükk Hendek – Small Ditch) are all that remain testifying to those once existing ditches.
Galata Tower was used as a shipyard, a warehouse, a prison and finally a fire-watch tower during the Ottoman period. For a period of time during the Ottoman era the public referred to it as “Hezarfen Tower”. Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi took off from the top of the tower and flew to the slopes of Üskadar by means of artificial wings and becoming the first man to fly since the mythical Icarus.
In the sixties the Galata tower was converted into a tourist attraction. The tower opens at 9 o'clock and the entrance fee is 5.000.000 during the daytime. Enjoy the stunning views of Topkapı Palace, both the Galata and Atatürk Bridges over Golden Horn, Haghia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, and most of the old city while sippinga Turkish coffee. It serves as a show place at dinner with belly dancers, Turkish folklore groups, and a performer singing unforgettable songs in several languages.
Galata Tower Restaurant
Closed on Sundays, reservation is requested
Tel: (212) 293 81 80
Fax: (212) 245 21 33
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