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Galata Tower | Istanbul’s ancient watchtower
Having served mighty empires from the Byzantines to the Ottomans as a watchtower and a prison, the Galata Tower is now a museum and an observation deck. Climb the tower to enjoy...
Founded On
1348
Galata TowerAbout
Quick information
RECOMMENDED DURATION
30 minutes
Timings
8:30am–11pm
VISITORS PER YEAR
1240000
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
Did you know?
The Galata Tower's origin story remains rather ambiguous. A wooden tower called Megalos Pyrgos was built by the Byzantines around 527 AD, which was eventually destroyed. The current tower was built in 1348 by the Genoese as part of larger fortifications. The walls of Galata, as the fortifications have come to be known are mostly lost now, while the tower stands.
Over the centuries, Galata Tower served as a defense watchtower, fire detection tower, prison, meteorological observatory, and now an observatory deck and museum. The tower has survived turbulent times and the changing empires have renovated and renamed it multiple times.
Galata Tower was the venue for a remarkable feat of aviation. In 1632, Hezarfen Ahmed Çelebi attached wooden wings to his arms and flew from the tower to the Doğancılar Square in Üsküdar. An impressed Sultan Murad Khan rewarded him with a bag of gold before exiling him to Algeria, as such a man ‘could do anything’.
Inside the Galata Tower
Galata Tower’s interiors reflect the influence of the many empires that once ruled the city, offering visitors a journey through Istanbul’s rich history along with breathtaking views. Despite undergoing several restorations, the tower has preserved its iconic conical roof and Romanesque details.
Staircase and elevators
The entrance of the Galata Tower has an information display, offering visitors a quick glimpse into the tower’s storied past, from its Genoese origins to its time under Ottoman rule. The ground floor features a staircase and an express elevator that takes you to the upper floors.
Historical exhibitions
On the lower floors, you will find artifacts and information related to Istanbul’s history, with a focus on the tower’s role over the centuries. These displays feature Genoese-era tools and weapons, Ottoman fire-fighting equipment, prison records, and detailed maps and models.
Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi exhibit
The story of Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi, who supposedly flew from Galata Tower across the Bosphorus in the 17th century, is an important part of the tower’s lore. Inside, you’ll find an exhibit with replicas of his wings and the gear he is said to have used.
Interactive displays
The Galata Tower seamlessly incorporates modern technology in its tours, featuring 3D views of the tower in the Genoese and Ottoman eras. Look through digital maps of old Constantinople, watch historical reenactments, and enjoy documentaries on the tower's construction and restoration.
Restoration efforts
The museum’s final section highlights the tower's restoration efforts. Here, you’ll find detailed drawings and before-and-after photos from each restoration phase-from the 1794 fire damage to the recent 2020 renovations. This exhibit also showcases the preservation techniques used to keep the tower structurally sound and historically authentic.
Observation deck
The most popular attraction inside the Galata Tower is its 360-degree lookout platform, offering stunning views of the cityscape. You can either take the spiral staircase or the elevator up to the 7th floor. Keep in mind, though, that from there, you’ll need to climb two flights of stairs to reach the very top.
What to see from the top of the Galata Tower?
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Galata Tower today
The Galata Tower continues to occupy a significant space in the city’s skyline. While its historical roots go back to the 13th century, today it serves as a cultural symbol and a focal point for both locals and tourists.
- Tourist attraction: Thousands of visitors flock to the Galata Tower each day for stunning vistas of the historic peninsula. From the top of its 360-degree viewing platform, you can see iconic landmarks such as the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Golden Horn, all the way to the Bosphorus Strait.
- Cultural hub: The tower stands as a powerful symbol of Istanbul’s cultural fusion. Situated between the European-style Galata district and the more traditional parts of the city, it represents the city’s unique position as a bridge between East and West.
- Social hub: The area surrounding the Galata Tower is a bustling hub of activity, filled with charming cafes, trending boutiques, and upscale restaurants. Street performers, musicians, and artists frequently gather around the tower, adding to the neighborhood’s charm.
- Festival and event space: The tower serves as a backdrop for cultural events, festivals, and light shows. The monument is illuminated during celebrations like the Republic Day and Istanbul Biennial.
Lesser-known Galata Tower myths and legends
- The flight of Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi- the ‘other myth’: One famous legend claims that Hezarfen flew from the top of the tower to the Asian side of Istanbul. Some locals whisper of a lesser-known version, which says that an earlier unnamed adventurer attempted a similar flight but tragically plunged into the Bosphorus, inspiring Hezarfen's later success.
- Galata Tower love story: This story tells the tale of two lovers who were cursed by a vengeful rival of the woman’s family. The curse stated that any couple who climbed the tower would be doomed to never marry. This myth is still quietly discussed among locals today, with some warning against visiting the tower with a romantic partner for fear that the curse might still hold.
- The Tower’s underground tunnel: There’s a long-standing myth that an underground tunnel once connected the Galata Tower to the Topkapi Palace, allowing secret movements between the European quarter and the Sultan's residence. The existence of this tunnel has never been confirmed, but rumors persist that hidden passageways under the city could have been used by spies, diplomats, or even royalty.
Featured in pop culture
The Galata Tower is not only a symbol of Istanbul’s past, but also a cultural icon, featured in several paintings, movies, novels, music videos, and even videos.
- Orhan Pamuk’s The Museum of Innocence (2008): In this book, Pamuk highlights the Galata Tower as a significant feature of Istanbul’s cityscape, linking the story to the physical setting of the city.
- From Russia with Love (1963): Terence Young features several iconic snapshots showing the tower’s silhouette in the background. While the main close-quarter fighting scenes between James Bond and SPECTRE do not revolve around the tower, it is a memorable visual element in the movie.
- Taken 2 (2012): The Liam Neeson action movie features the Galata Tower in the high-stakes chase scenes to capture the city’s character and showcase the bustling streets of Istanbul.
- Assassin's Creed: Revelations (2011): In this installment of the popular video game franchise, players navigate through a meticulously recreated 16th-century Constantinople. The Tower of Galata plays an important role, with players climbing to the top and using it as a viewpoint to explore the city.
- The Saboteur (2009): In this video game as well, the tower is animated as a recognizable landmark within the game world and players use it as a navigational point.
Frequently asked questions about the Galata Tower
What is the cultural significance of the tower?
The Galata Tower is a symbol of Istanbul’s rich past, having been built by the Genoese in 1348 as a defense fortress. Over the centuries, it has functioned as a watchtower and a fire lookout. Byzantine and Ottoman influences have also seeped into the tower’s design, solidifying its role as a crossroads of civilizations in the city.
How to go to the top of the Galata Tower?
The Galata Tower has an express elevator that takes you to the top in just a few minutes. The observation deck is located on the 9th floor, however, the elevator drops you off on the 7th. You have to walk the remaining 2 flights of stairs to get to the top.
What is the height of the Galata Tower?
The Galata Tower stands at a height of 67 meters, offering panoramic views of the entire city. You can spot the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, and also see a stretch of the Bosphorus Strait.
Is Istanbul’s Galata Tower a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
While the Tower of Galata is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a part of the Genoese District, known for its role in building trade networks in the Middle Ages. In fact, the Genoese had laid the first fortifications of the tower in the 13th century to show off their maritime power.
Are there exhibits or displays inside the tower?
Yes, the Galata Tower Museum features interactive exhibits and 3-D models, offering insights into its construction by the Genoese and its evolution through Byzantine and Ottoman times. The immersive displays make for an engaging experience and make the tower a valuable stop for anyone looking to connect with Istanbul’s layered history.
How long does it take to explore the Galata Tower?
The express elevator takes you to the lookout platform in just a few minutes. We recommend spending around 30 to 40 minutes inside the Galata Tower. Look around the interactive displays and click pictures of the stunning views from the top.
Can I visit the tower without a guided tour?
Yes, you can book standard tickets and enjoy the stunning views. However, we recommend the Galata Tower entry tickets, including an audio guide or afternoon walking tours for a deeper understanding of the history and cultural significance of the tower.
Are there any other attractions near the Galata Tower?
Just a short walk from the Galata Tower, Istiklal Avenue is lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and historic buildings. You can also stop by the Galata Mevlevi Museum, which is dedicated to the Mevlevi Order of Whirling Dervishes. A bit further away, the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Blue Mosque, around the Sultanahmet area are must-see attractions for anyone looking to explore the city’s cultural heritage.
Is the Tower of Galata worth visiting?
Yes, when visiting Istanbul, you must drop by the Galata Tower, a historic stone tower, offering gorgeous views of the city’s iconic skyline. Its history goes back to the 13th century when the Genoese laid its foundation. Since then, across Byzantine and Ottoman reigns, the tower has functioned as a defense fortress, a watchtower, and even a fire lookout.
