Galata Tower

Galata Tower stands on a high hill in Istanbul’s Galata district and can be seen from much of the city. Built by the Genoese in 1348–1349 as part of the fortifications, it was originally called the Tower of Christ. Over the centuries it served as a lookout, prison, observatory and fire-watch tower. It is 67 metres high and 9 metres in diameter; its base is reinforced with massive stone blocks, the upper levels are brick, and the conical roof and battlements reflect Italian Renaissance influence. Today it houses a museum about the tower’s history, astronomical instruments and a model of Istanbul, as well as an observation deck reached by lift.

Legend says that in the 17th century the Ottoman scholar Hezarfen Ahmed Çelebi flew from Galata Tower on handmade wings and crossed the Bosphorus; the museum presents the design and story of his flight. Another tale concerns lovers: a couple who climb the tower together for the first time are destined to marry, provided they also walk to the entrance side by side.