Maiden Tower
Maiden Tower Istanbul History
The Maiden Tower, also known as Kız Kulesi in Turkish, is a tower located on a small islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, Turkey. The tower has a unique history and has played various roles in the city's past. The origin of the Maiden Tower is not clear, but it is believed to have been built during the Byzantine era (4th-15th century) as a watchtower to protect the city from enemy ships approaching from the south. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone several transformations and has served as a lighthouse, a customs checkpoint, and a quarantine station. One of the most famous legends associated with the Maiden Tower is the story of the lovelorn princess. According to the legend, an oracle prophesied that the princess would die from a snake bite on her 18th birthday. In an attempt to prevent this from happening, her father, the emperor, built the tower on a small islet to keep her isolated from snakes. However, on her 18th birthday, a snake hidden in a basket of figs that was sent as a gift bit the princess, and she died. Today, the tower is also known as the "Tower of Leandros" after another famous legend about the tower. During the Ottoman era, the Maiden Tower was used primarily as a lighthouse to guide ships through the narrow channel of the Bosphorus. It was also used as a quarantine station during the cholera epidemic in the 19th century. In the early 20th century, the tower was converted into a restaurant and café. Today, the Maiden Tower is a popular tourist attraction and has been restored and renovated several times. Visitors can reach the tower by boat from the nearby ports of Üsküdar and Kabataş. The tower houses a caféand a museum that displays artifacts related to its history. The tower also offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and the city skyline.
Maiden Tower Attractions
1. Maiden Tower:The tower is located on a small islet in the middle of the Bosphorus Strait, offering stunning views of the city.
2. Observation Deck:Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of Istanbul and the Bosphorus.
3. Museum:The Maiden Tower also features a small museum showcasing the history and legends of the tower, including its use as a lighthouse and a prison.
4. Restaurant:The Maiden Tower is home to a renowned restaurant offering traditional Turkish cuisine and spectacular views of the Bosphorus.
5. Boat Tours:Visitors can take a Bosphorus boat tour that passes by the Maiden Tower as well as other Istanbul attractions.
6. Waterfront Walkways:The tower is surrounded by a pedestrian walkway that offers a stunning view of the Bosphorus and is a popular spot for photographers.
7. Light Show:At night, the Maiden Tower features a striking light show that illuminates the tower and the surrounding waters.
8. Cultural Events:Throughout the year, the tower hosts a variety of cultural events, including musical performances, art exhibitions, and theater productions.
9. Wedding Venue:The Maiden Tower is a popular location for weddings and other special events, with its stunning views and romantic atmosphere.
10. Historical Landmark:The Maiden Tower is a symbol of Istanbul's rich history and has played an important role in the city's cultural and political life for centuries.
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Where are the nearest ? Şile AğvaKılavuzluk İstasyonuŞemsipaşaŞemsipaşaŞemsipaşa Askeri Sosyal TesısleriKız Kulesiİhsaniye İskele SokakKız KulesiŞemsipaşa Askeri Sosyal TesısleriŞemsipaşaÜsküdar Sahil Yolu
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