The Galata Tower was built as "Christea Turris" in 1348 as part of the expansion of the Genoese colony in Constantinople. The tower stands at 69.90 meters above ground and it is still the one of the most prominent landmarks in the city on the Asian Side of Istanbul. The tower was originally erected to observe the port and the city. It has been used for various purposes over the centuries, but now it is functioning as a 'watch tower' for the tourists. There is an observation deck on the top floor of the tower, which you pay 10YTL to visit. You don't have to walk all the way up, as there is an elevator and you will only need to walk up the final two floors.
Some interesting fact about the tower: In the 17th Century, an Ottoman citizen, Hezarfen Ahmet Çelebi flew from Galata Tower to Asian Shore of Üsküdar with the 'wings' that he invented.
It was deemed to be a great success and he was rewarded with 1,000 gold pieces by the then Sultan. He is now known as one of the first aviators to have succeeded in flying with artificial wings.
A photo a of the Galata Tower from the European shore
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