Istanbul is a metropolis that has gained worldwide fame as a city that bears the traces of thousands of years of civilization and fascinates with its cultural and historical richness. Every corner of this fascinating city is filled with unique buildings that reflect the influence of different empires throughout history.
However, there is a lot that most of us do not know about the historical monuments of Istanbul. interesting and unusual information also available. From ancient times to the Ottoman Empire, some buildings in Istanbul attract attention not only with their architecture but also with the secrets they hide behind. Here are some places with extraordinary stories about the most remarkable historical monuments of Istanbul.
Çemberlitaş: Hz. Antiquities Associated with the Tomb of Jesus
One of the symbolic buildings of Istanbul ÇemberlitaşIt was built in 330 as part of the efforts of Roman Emperor Constantine I to rebuild Istanbul. The pedestals placed on top of each other in the form of 8 large bracelets, each weighing 3 tons and having a diameter of 3 meters. Under Çemberlitaş, which was decorated with the statue of Emperor Constantine when it was first built, Hz. It is said that some sacred items taken from Jesus’ tomb in Jerusalem are kept.
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Hagia Sophia: The Magnificence Remaining from the Ancient Temples
It was built as a cathedral by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I between 532-537. hagia sophiaIt was converted into a mosque after Fatih Sultan Mehmed conquered Istanbul. Hagia Sophia, which was turned into a museum in 1935, is now used as a mosque again. More than ten thousand workers worked in its construction, and some of the columns and stones used were taken from much older temples.
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Galata Tower: Traces of the Genoese in Istanbul
Galata TowerIt was built by the Genoese in the early 14th century, during the Byzantine period, as a symbol of their autonomous region in Istanbul. During the conquest of Istanbul, the Genoese did not defend against the Turks and even helped them from time to time. For this reason, the tower did not collapse, although it received minor damage. Also, famous Hezârfen Ahmed Çelebimade history with the attempt to fly from this tower.
Topkapı Palace: Historical Place Where Sacred Relics Are Stored
Built by Fatih Sultan Mehmed in 1478 in the most beautiful corner of Istanbul. Topkapi PalaceIt was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for 400 years. Covering an area of 700 thousand square meters, the palace has been reduced to an area of 80 thousand square meters today. Additionally, Topkapı Palace is extremely important for the Islamic world. holy relicsIt is a place where people are hidden and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
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Yedikule Dungeons: Guest House Before Being Used as a Prison
Built by Roman Emperor Theodosius Yedikule Dungeonswas originally built to accommodate guests from Rome. However, when Istanbul was captured by the Turks, the use of the building changed and it was used as a prison between 1430 and 1800. Additionally, it functioned as a zoo for a short time during the reign of Abdulmecid. The observation tower of the structure made it known as Yedikule Fortress.
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Ahrida Synagogue: The Only Place Where Only Turks Pray
Ahrida SynagogueIt was built by Romaniote Jews who migrated to Istanbul in the 15th century. This synagogue, named after the city of Ohrid in Macedonia, has also begun to be used by Sephardim. The shape of the prayer platform resembles the prow of a ship. Ahrida Synagogue, Sabbatai ZeviIt is also known as the place where ‘only prayed’ and War of 93 Prayer ceremonies were held for Turkish soldiers during the ceremony.
Grand Bazaar: Secret Areas That No One Can Enter
One of the most well-known historical buildings in Istanbul grand bazaarIt has a history dating back to the Byzantine period. While the small part of the bazaar remains from the Byzantine period, the sandal bazaar section was added by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1460. The real big Grand Bazaar was built during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent. It functions like a city by hosting many structures such as the bazaar, mosques, schools, fountains and inns. However, some parts of the Grand Bazaar, especially areas separated by certain gates, contain secret areas that visitors cannot enter or even see.
Rumeli Fortress: Great Victory in a Short Time
It was built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet before the conquest of Istanbul. Rumelia Fortressalso known as Boğazkesen Fortress. This fortress, which played an important role in the conquest of the city, is an enormous structure that was completed by approximately 1,000 workers in a record time of 30 days. Covering an area of 60,000 square meters, Rumeli Fortress is an important strategic point for the defense of Istanbul.
Bozdoğan Aqueduct: Dedication of the Nymph
Bozdogan AqueductIt is one of the oldest historical buildings in Istanbul. This arch, built by the Roman Emperor Valens in the 4th century, was also built with the stones of the Chalcedonian wall in Kadıköy. The arch in Greek mythology nymph to nymphs It is known that he was dedicated. Although some parts of it have been destroyed, the still standing original structure of the Bozdoğan Aqueduct is one of the most important symbols of Istanbul’s old water systems.
Yoros Castle: Inscriptions Dedicated to Zeus
Yoros Castle, It was built by the Byzantine Emperor Paleologos in the mid-13th century. The Byzantine Emperor who had the castle built Greek god ZeusIt is believed that he had this castle built in memory of . The castle contains Greek inscriptions honoring Zeus. The castle, which was captured by the Turks and came under the rule of the Genoese, is today one of the largest and best preserved castles in Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern: Mysterious Undiscovered Channels
It was built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 526. Basilica CisternIt is one of the most mysterious historical buildings in Istanbul. This large water cistern, built to meet the water needs of the city, carried water to the city area through numerous channels. However, these channels are still not fully explored, which makes the Basilica Cistern a special attraction for history and mystery lovers.
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German Fountain: Friendship Behind Deception and War
In 1901, German Emperor II. Built as a gift from Wilhelm German FountainIt is one of the newest historical monuments in Istanbul. World War IWith our participation in , it has become the symbol of Turkish-German friendship. However, an interesting detail is this: This fountain was built in Germany, then dismantled and brought to Istanbul by train and rebuilt. It is said that the awarding of the Baghdad Railway project to German companies also had an impact on the construction of the German Fountain.
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