Inside Galata Tower

The skyline of Turkey is filled with towers and forts that still hum the tunes of war flutes. One of the most dominant ones amongst them is the Galata Tower. Built back in the 13th century AD by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian the Great, it served as a watchtower for several decades. Later, the Geonese colony fortified the region of Pera in 1267 and constructed the Galata Citadel. The Galata Tower was situated at the highest point of the fortification by the Walls of Galata. Surviving multiple wars, storms, earthquakes, reconstructions, and restorations, this place speaks many tales in many tongues. The Galata Tower inside the very famous Beyoglu district is a must-visit while touring Istanbul.


The Turkish invasion in the 15th century altered the face of the tower and sometime later it was turned into a prison. The walls were pulled down, the ruins of which still narrate the heroic stories of the fighters who stood in defence. It was being used as a watchtower by the rulers as it still served as the highest point in the town, providing a panoramic view overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, the Golden Horn of Istanbul, and the Anatolian shore of Uskudar. Between 1965 to 1967, the wooden interior and artworks of the tower were covered with concrete, and the roof was renovated after its destruction in a storm. Finally, it was opened to the public in the same year.

Museum
Museum

It is the largest museum in Turkey and is one of the most popular ones. The Galata Tower Museum can provide you with amazing insights and facts about the Roman, Byzantine, and Constantine past. Starting from the Turkish Invasion to the Crusades, this place makes the undulating history of Europe come back to life. The various historical objects and antiques that were excavated by archeologists are preserved in this museum which was opened in 2020. The Galata Tower interior that was originally carved with wood is now covered in concrete and plaster.


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Exhibitions
Exhibitions

Inside the Galata Tower, the lower floors are dedicated to exhibiting the multiple facets of the history of the Galata Tower. There are panels elaborating on the 1923 liberation of Istanbul from the occupying forces. There are models of mediaeval boats that were used by the Geonese traders as well. It is one of the oldest towers in the world and the excavations that are up for exhibition here reveal a lot about the enchanting past of the Galata Tower.


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Souvenir Shop
Souvenir Shop

The Galata Tower inside is divided into several sections after it was privatised. There is a compact, yet vibrant, souvenir shop situated near the entrance of the Galata Tower. In this shop, you will find souvenirs depicting landscapes of Istanbul depicted on small cards and plates, and sculptures as well as pictures of the Galata Tower over tiny magnets. Choose the perfect souvenir from here to take back home and make memories that last a lifetime. These artefacts can make great gifts to take back home or to make your own collection too.

Interactive Screens
Interactive Screens

There are interactive screens that portray the legends of Hezarfin Ahmet Celebi and provide an opportunity for visitors to participate in a quiz about Istanbul. There is also a short film shown here that depicts the old Istanbul and the life of the people in this region during the ancient and mediaeval eras. You can learn a lot about what this place has been through over the ages. The audio-visual exposure makes the experience of the visitor much better.


Suggested Reads: Galata Tower Facts

Historical artifacts
Historical artifacts

The beautifully semi-arched windows, the brick structures, and the appearance of the building are a visual representation of the fascinating history of Europe. The Galata Tower in itself is a very important historical destination that represents the war-torn European past. Its interiors were covered in concrete in the last century, but before that, even the walls of this tower were carved in wood. The exterior of the tower is still set in the same manner, there have been renovations but no major change has been made. The artefacts available in the museum and exhibition hall tell interesting stories about the eventful past of the Galata Tower.

Observation Deck
Observation Deck

You can take the spiralling staircase from the 7th floor to the 9th floor to marvel at the extensive view of the entire town. Witness the Bosphorus Strait and the Golden Horn of Istanbul, also known as the Halic Chain, bordering the coastline of the Beyoglu district. There is a narrow balcony that you can stand upon to soak in the salty air and the spectacular view. However, this part of the tower is not accessible by wheelchair, so it will be difficult for people with disabilities to get up here.


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Tips to Visit Inside the Galata Tower

Tips to Visit Inside the Galata Tower
  • This place has a rich historical past. In 2013 it was selected to be in the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In 2020, this place got privatised and was turned into a museum after renovation. Now, it is most commonly referred to as the Galata Kulesi Muzesi, or the Galata Tower Museum, and it is one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul.
  • Look atop the terraces of Galata in the Beyoglu district, and marvel at the comprehensive expanse of the entire estuary that makes the narrowest international water trading route of the Bosphorus Strait. 
  • Designed in the Romanesque style, this tower stands tall 67 metres above sea level, including the conical roof and the architectural ornament on top of it. The Galata Tower interior designs were initially carved in wood. But then they were wiped off with plaster and concrete in the 20th century.
  • The tower has 9 floors and 7 of them are accessible by the lift, therefore, the top two floors are accessible by the spiral staircase only. 
  • Different floors of this tower are dedicated to exhibiting Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman artefacts. The Galata Tower from inside is indeed a mind-blowing experience that provides important insight into the historical backdrop of this area.
  • Check the opening and closing times before planning your visit to this place. You can also get your tickets online if you want to book your visit in advance. Istanbul Museum passes are applicable to gain entry to this place.


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Book Galata Tower Tickets

Galata Tower: Fast Track + Audio Guide
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Highlights
  • The Galata Tower stands as a symbol of Istanbul's rich heritage and the blending of different cultures and civilizations that have shaped the city over centuries

  • Marvel at the panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline from the top of Galata Tower

  • Enjoy delicious refreshments from the in-house cafe and restaurant at your own cost with the awe-inspiring vistas of the city

  • Book the Galata Tower tickets and capture picture-perfect memories as you see a mesmerizing sunset

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Must Know Before You Go
  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.
  • ID proof is mandatory for each individual guest at the time of arrival.
  • The tour involves a significant amount of walking. You are advised to wear comfortable and light clothing that is suitable for walking in the sun.
  • Please display the voucher with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.
  • Fixed day ticket implies that this ticket can only be redeemed on the date that you've booked the ticket, it won't be carried forward to next or any other day.
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Inside Galata Tower

Inside Galata Tower

The Galata Tower, an iconic landmark in Istanbul, offers a captivating experience inside its historic walls. Upon entering, visitors are transported to a bygone era, with its stone archways and winding staircase leading to the top. The interior boasts a small museum showcasing the tower's history, including its use as an observation point and a prison during the Ottoman era. As you ascend, the narrow windows reveal breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul's skyline, the Bosphorus Strait, and the Golden Horn. The tower's cozy café invites you to savor Turkish coffee or tea while taking in the mesmerizing scenery. The Galata Tower offers an immersive journey through time and a glimpse into Istanbul's rich past.

FAQs

Is there a lift inside Galata Tower?

    Yes, there is a lift inside the Galata Tower that goes up to the 7th floor. There are 9 floors altogether, so you need to take the stairs to the topmost two floors. Hence, the observation deck on the 9th floor is difficult to access for people with disabilities.

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