Galata Tower, one of the symbols of Istanbul with its mesmerising view of the peninsula including sites like the Bosporus, Golden Horn, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, receives more and more visitors from around the world.
Originally named the Tower of Christ, the GalataTower attracts Italians in the greatest numbers, followed by French, Spanish and German tourists.
"I think the only answer to the question 'Where is the best place to view Istanbul's historical and natural beauties?' is 'Galata Tower,'" said a young Italian boy named Angelo. "The view from the 67-meter high tower is like nothing else in the world. A visit to the tower in the evening hours reveals a different beauty: the sunset."
The tower was built by the Genoese who settled in the region and strengthened their position in the 14th and 15th centuries. Upon the conquest of Istanbul, the tower was first used as a prison and then a warehouse for vessels.
The nine-story tower is 66.90 meters tall and was the city's tallest structure when it was built. The elevation at ground level is 35 meters above sea-level. The tower has an external diameter of 16.45 meters at the base, an 8.95 meter inside diameter, and 3.75 meter thick walls.
Most of the walls are long gone, but the great tower remains.
Touring inside, Turkish youngster Serhat says the tower offers the best panoramic views of the city.
"You must visit here to watch the amazing scenery of Istanbul. If possible, go early in the morning when it is not too crowded. While looking around, you understand why they chose this place 1,500 years ago."
Used as a lookout tower for fires until the 1960s, it now houses a restaurant and cafe on the upper floors with a magnificent view of Istanbul.
Also located on the upper floors is a night club which hosts a Turkish show. Two elevators carry visitors from the lower level to the upper levels.
Lynne from Australia says the panorama balcony, encircling the highest row of windows, is narrow and open-air.
"We can watch above the Golden Horn, Seraglio Point and Old Istanbul. But if you want the full effect, be here preferably at the sunset time," she adds.
Spanish Adrian says the reason he visits the tower is the story of Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi, explaining, "Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi flew as an early intercontinental aviator using artificial wings for gliding from this tower over the Bosphorus to the slopes of the Anatolian side. It must have been fantastic. He flew nearly six kilometres away."
"Galata tower fascinates you with its 1,500-year-old history. The excellent sightseeing makes you hurry up the stairs. The splendid Bosphorus appears at first sight. But it is really crowded from the noon till night. Everyone must take a camera to capture these views," he added.
englishnews@aa.com.tr
