Galata Tower

The cylindrical Galata Tower stands sentry over the approach to ‘new’ İstanbul. For centuries the tallest structure in Beyoğlu, it dominates the skyline north of the Golden Horn. Galata was home to traders from Genoa and Venice during both Byzantine and Ottoman times, and functioned almost like a separate colony, with distinct architecture, a preponderance of taverns and a decidedly European flavour. Originally constructed in 1348, this tower was the highest point in the Genoese fortifications of the suburb, and has been rebuilt many times. It has survived a number of earthquakes, as well as the demolition of the rest of the Genoese walls in the mid-19th century. The paved public square surrounding the tower was created by the municipality as part of the ongoing Beyoğlu Beautification Project and it’s been a big hit with locals of all ages, who gather each day to play football and backgammon, drink tea on the outdoor terrace of Café Gündoğdu, buy food from the street vendors and swap local news. There is a cafeteria on the 8th floor of the tower where you can enjoy a drink, and a vertiginous panorama balcony offering 360-degree views of the city. To be frank, we don’t think the view (as spectacular as it is) justifies the steep admission cost.