Galata Tower in Istanbul: Legend, Who Built and Price

Who built the Galata Tower?

The Galata Tower was built in 1348-49 by the Genoese, allied with the Byzantine Empire, in the Galata region, which lies north of the Golden Horn. It was originally called the “Tower of the Holy Cross” (Turris Sancte Crucis) because of the cross mounted on its top.

The tower was built as part of the fortifications created by the Genoese in the region between 1335 and 1349. She became a symbol of Genoese influence in the area, despite permission given by the Byzantine Empire.

During the war between the Genoese and Byzantium, which began in 1348 and ended with a treaty the following year, the tower remained under Genoese control. However, after the capture of Constantinople by the Ottoman Empire in 1453, the Genoese handed over the colony of Pera, including the Galata Tower, to the Ottoman authorities without conflict.

Why was the Galata Tower built?

The Galata Tower was built to strengthen and provide control over important sea routes and the entrance to the Bosphorus Strait.

The Genoese used the tower as part of the defense system of their colony at Galata, which was located north of the Golden Horn. It served to monitor the movement of ships, protect against attacks and control important trade and maritime routes.

The tower also served as a navigational landmark for ships entering and leaving Istanbul. The cross at the top of the tower helped sailors navigate and determine their location.

What does the word Galata mean?

The word “Galata” has several meanings and its interpretation depends on the context.

The word “Galata” comes from the Greek word “Γαλατάι” (Galatai), which means “Gauls” or “Celts”. The Greeks used this term to describe the population of this area in ancient times.

What is the Galata Tower famous for?

During the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent (1494-1566), the tower was used as a prison until the 16th century, then as a venue for the Ottoman military band until the 18th century, and then as an observatory and fire watchtower until the 19th century.

As mentioned in history in 1632, the tower was the place from which the first flight of mankind took place. As the story goes, the scientist-inventor Hezarfen Ahmet Çelebi invented wings and flew across the entire Bosphorus Strait and landed on the Asian side of the city of the soul.

Also, the Galata Tower has undoubtedly earned the status of “the calling card of Istanbul” and the dominant feature of the city.

What is in the Galata Tower?

Museum exhibition: Inside the tower there is a museum exhibition presenting the history and cultural heritage of the Galata Tower, as well as the history of the Galata area and its connection with Istanbul. The exhibition includes artifacts, photographs and information about the tower and its role in history.

Model of the Galata Tower and the surrounding area: On one of the floors you can see a model of the Galata Tower and the surrounding area. This helps visitors better understand the location and architecture of the tower.

Observation deck: The top floor of the tower is equipped with an observation deck, which offers a magnificent view of the city of Istanbul and its surroundings. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait, the Golden Horn and Istanbul’s historical areas.

Cafes and Restaurants: On some floors of the tower there are cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy Turkish cuisine and drinks, as well as a pleasant atmosphere and views of the city.

Museum Shop: On the ground floor of the tower there is a museum shop where you can buy souvenirs and gifts related to the Galata Tower and Istanbul.

Interactive Elements: The exhibit may also feature interactive elements to help visitors delve deeper into the history and culture of this iconic tower.

How many floors are there in the Galata Tower?

The Galata Tower has 11 floors. Floors include ground floor, basement and mezzanine, and upper floors including an observation deck at the top of the tower. Each floor has its own function and is designed for various activities, including museum exhibitions, cafes, restaurants and observation decks.

Is it possible to climb the Galata Tower?

Yes, visitors can climb the Galata Tower in Istanbul. The tower is open to tourists and you can climb to the top to enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul and its surroundings. There is an elevator inside the tower that takes visitors to the upper floors, including the observation deck.

A visit to the tower provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy magnificent views of the Bosphorus Strait, the Golden Horn, the historical areas of Istanbul and many other attractions. This is one of the popular spots for tourists and photographers as it provides a beautiful perspective of the city.

How much does a ticket to the Galata Tower cost?

The Galata Tower is open to visitors daily from 10:00 to 19:00 (from November 1 to April 1) and from 08:30 to 23:59 (from April 1 to November 1).

The restaurant in the tower is open from 20:00 to 00:30 pm.

The entrance fee to the Galata Tower is 650 Turkish lira.

Please check the website for current visiting hours and admission fees .

Galata Tower interesting facts and legend

There are 3 stories that are most often told as legends about the Galata Tower.

Whoever you go to the tower with first…

you’re getting married! What an auspicious legend, isn’t it?

According to a legend dating back to the Romans, a couple who goes to the Galata Tower for the first time together will definitely get married.

Well, if they say you’re going to get married on that legendary first date, it wouldn’t be a bad idea if you took your loved one and planned an outing.

The two towers of Istanbul are in love with each other.

The second legend is also full of love!

According to this legend, the Galata Tower and the Maiden Tower were in love with each other, but the Bosphorus prevented the two lovers from meeting. He spent years writing letters out of love for the Galata Tower.

Hezarfen Ahmet Çelebi supposedly whispered to Hezarfen about his love for the tower during the flight from the Galata Tower to Üsküdar and gave him letters. Hezarfen also forwarded letters to the Maiden Tower.

The story of the White Seagull

This time the story is based on the book “Atlas of the Misty Continents” by Ihsan Oktay Anar.

According to the story, the seagull that first flew to Istanbul led the Genoese in the dark. According to their beliefs, the seagull was Hz. The Genoese, who identify with Jesus, follow the seagull to its nest, cook it and eat it. After this, the Galata Tower is built for the white gull, where its nest is located.

What is the name of the Galata Tower area?

The tower is located in the Beyoğlu district , Istanbul. This part of the city is considered European. Beyoglu or formerly Pera is one of the districts of the European part of Istanbul. The district, which is bounded by Şişli and Kağıthane in the northwest, Beşiktaş and the Bosphorus in the east, and the Golden Horn in the south and west, has an area of ​​8.76 km2 and consists of 45 blocks. It takes its name from the Beyoğlu district , also known as Pera, which covers the area defined by Istiklal Street, stretching between Tünel and Taksim , and the streets leading to it.

Beyoğlu can be described as the most Istanbul-smelling area of ​​Istanbul, it is the place where the term “cosmopolitan” comes to life. Istiklal Avenue and the streets around it can be considered the center of not only Beyoglu , but also Istanbul. Besides Istiklal Street, Cumhuriyet, İnönü and Cihangir streets are also the places where shopping and entertainment functions are most prominent. Facilities hosting various cultural events within the district have also made the district a cultural hub. Places such as cinemas, theaters and concert centers are places that are used by the population living in the Beyoglu area , which makes a lot of sense in Istanbul and Turkey. In addition, Beyoglu is home to the Pirosmani Art Gallery, created by Georgian artists.

Hotels near Galata Tower

1. Anemon Galata Hotel: A cozy hotel in Galata, providing a convenient location for exploring this historic area.
2. Galata Zade Hotel: Located near the Galata Tower, this hotel offers cozy rooms and access to a variety of attractions.
3. Galataco Hotel: Another hotel in Galata with a convenient location and cozy rooms.
4. Hotel Des Arts: A luxury hotel in the historical district of Galata, providing comfortable rooms and beautiful interiors.
5. Galata Tower VIP Apartment Suites: If you prefer apartments, these apartments are close to the Galata Tower and provide amenities for longer stays.
6. Galata Flats: Apartments and studios that offer a convenient location for exploring Galata and its surrounding areas.
7. Duo Galata Hotel: This hotel offers stylish accommodations and a convenient location in Galata.
8. Galata Rasso Boutique Hotel: Cozy boutique hotel in the historical district of Galata.
9. Allegra Suit Galata: Apartments with a kitchen, which can be convenient for families or longer stays.
10. World House Istanbul: This hotel offers different types of rooms and apartments and is located near the Galata Tower.
11. The Galataport Hotel: A hotel with modern interiors and a convenient location.
12. Galata Life Istanbul: Another hotel in Galata with various accommodation options.

Restaurants and cafes of the Galata Tower

Galata Tower in Istanbul offers many restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy beautiful views of the city and the Bosphorus.

Nardis Jazz Club

This is one of the few jazz clubs in Istanbul. Thanks to its location at the foot of the Galata Tower, this place has been delighting jazz lovers for years with the motto “Relax at the Jazz Club”. Every day there is a concert. Many local and foreign artists are making this scene stifling.

The menu includes spaghetti with interesting sauces, salads, tenderloin and chicken options.

Don’t leave without a reservation and check the venue’s schedule at the beginning of each month. There is always a concert you want to go to.

Address: Kuledibi Sok. No:14 Galata Istanbul

Le Fumoir

There are no places in Galata where you can relax, where you can hang out with friends, drink coffee and chat. This is a place where you can spend a romantic night with your loved one, proof of this. Nestled on the terrace of the Georges Hotel, this place is a very stylish choice for special occasions. And a magnificent view and French cuisine! All conditions for a romantic night are met.

We recommend ordering a cheese plate with a French wine of your choice. In addition, salads and meat tartare are refreshing.

For those who want to see this magnificent view during the day rather than at night, don’t be surprised by the coffee and croissant!

Address: Serdar-ı Ekrem Sk. Georges Hotel Galata No:24 Galata, Istanbul

Old Java

A new one has been added to the third wave coffee trend in Istanbul, as well as in Galata, which has not had its share of this trend.

The kind of coffee here that sets this place apart from others is one that will keep you tasting it in your mouth for hours: smoked coffee. There should be cookies or cake with it.

Particularly successful presentations and frescoes are no less picturesque! Also, a new place has been added to the list of places where you can take your work with you and work, congratulations!

Order home: Old Java

Address: Müeyyetzade mahallesi, Tatar Beyi sok, No: 8, Galata, Istanbul.

Galata Tower how to get there

To get to the Galata Tower in Istanbul, you can use public transport, taxis or even walking routes, depending on your location in the city. Here are some ways to get to the Galata Tower:

Metro and tram: If you are in the center of Istanbul, you can use the M2 metro . Take the metro to Şişhane station. Take tram T1 in the direction of Karaköy. Get off at Galata station. From here you can walk to the tower.

Taxi : You can also take a taxi from different parts of Istanbul. Just give the driver the address “Galata Tower” (Galata Kulesi) and he will take you there.

Walking route: If you are in the historical district of Istanbul, you can walk to the Galata Tower. It may take some time, but it is a good way to explore the area.

Ferry: If you are on the Asian side of the city, you can take the ferry to Karaköy Pier. From the Karakoy pier you can walk to the Galata Tower.

How to get from Istanbul Airport to Galata Tower?

You can use the metro and tram to get to the Galata Tower. First, take the M11 metro (M11 Gayrettepe – Istanbul Airport ) from the airport to a metro station in the city center, such as Kağıthane station. Then change to the M7 metro and get to the “Mecidiyeköy” stop, and change to the M2 metro and get to the “Şişhane” stop, which is located near the Galata Tower. This is a longer but more economical option.

A taxi is one of the most convenient and fastest ways to get to the Galata Tower. There are official taxis at Istanbul Airport .

How to get from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Galata Tower?

A taxi is the most convenient and fastest way to get to the Galata Tower. There are official taxis available at Sabiha Gokcen Airport . You can order a taxi at special counters or use a mobile taxi application such as Uber or BiTaksi.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport also operates a shuttle bus that connects the airport to various areas of Istanbul, including the Old City and Galata Tower. Check the schedule and location of the airport bus stop.

What metro is near the Galata Tower?

However, the closest metro station that is nearby is the Şişhane station on the M2 line ( M2 Yenikapı – Hacıosman metro line ). Galata Tower is a short walk from Şişhane Station. After exiting the metro , you can walk along the embankment to the tower.

Galata Tower on the map