Travel Turkey Galata Tower

Galata Tower is one of the most striking towers in Istanbul which is located in the Galata area. It was built by the Genoese’s in 1384.

The height of Galata is exactly 69.90 meters. After long statistical calculations, it was certain that the tower weighed around 10.000 tons and the thicknesses of the walls were 3.75 meters.

After getting damaged because of the Crusades, the tower was fixed and enlarged later on around 1445 – 1446. Since the tower sits on the peaks of Istanbul, it is one of the rare places where you can enjoy the view of a 16 million populated city.

Genoese’s, who were in close relationships with the King Murat II talked the king into building second tower near the Galata Tower, and they named it Murat II Tower.

Old constructions such as these would have to have witnessed so many things since they have been around for long time. If we look back in history, it would be safe to say that the tower has even witnessed some suicide attacks. A 15 year old boy, who was the only son of a famous Turkish author jumped off the tower back in 1973. And if we go back even further, in 1876 an Austrian Citizen had sneaked into Galata while the Guards were away and then just let himself go from the top of the tower.

It is a fact that Istanbul has many gorgeous travel places, but this is definitely one historical piece that you won’t want to miss.