The Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) is one of the oldest towers in the world.
It was built on the bank of the Golden Horn and was of great strategic importance.
Already in Byzantine times, there was a wooden tower that allowed to guard the outpost overlooking the sea. It was Justinian in 508 who wanted the construction of the wooden tower then destroyed during the fourth crusade called by Pope Innocent III in 1198 with the sack of Byzantium.
In 1348, under Genoese rule, it was decided to build a new defensive bastion at the highest point, 35 meters above sea level. The new tower allowed to dominate a large portion of the Sea of Marmara, which had always been the nerve center of naval trade.
In 1453 the Turkish army recaptured Istanbul and the Genoese troops returned this outpost without further conflict.
From 1717 the Galata Tower, being one of the tallest structures in the city, was used as an observation point for outbreaks.
The Galata Tower, 61 meters high, consists of nine cylindrical floors surmounted by a conical roof on top of which is placed a golden ornament.
From its top you have one of the best panoramic views of the city of Istanbul and today it is one of the most famous tourist attractions.
