Galata Tower, Istanbul

Galata Tower, rising 67 meters above the Galata district, is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks and a testament to its layered history. Built in 1348 by the Genoese as part of the city’s fortifications, the medieval stone tower has served as a watchtower, fire lookout, and even an aviation experiment site. Today, visitors can climb to its observation deck for unmatched 360-degree views over the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, and the historic peninsula. Inside, exhibitions and displays narrate its centuries-long story, while a café and restaurant offer a chance to savor the scenery. Illuminated beautifully at night, Galata Tower remains a must-see symbol of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.