The Maiden’s Tower is one of the most iconic and enchanting landmarks of Istanbul. Perched on a small islet in the Bosphorus Strait, the tower dates back to the ancient times, and has served various purposes throughout the centuries, from a watchtower to a lighthouse, from a quarantine station to a museum. Today, the tower is a popular tourist destination, offering a museum, a restaurant, a cafe, and a ferry service. The tower also boasts stunning views of the city and the sea, as well as fascinating legends and stories.
In this article, we will explore the history, attractions, and legends of the Maiden’s Tower, and provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit. Whether you are looking for a cultural, culinary, or romantic experience, the Maiden’s Tower has something for everyone.
History of the Maiden’s Tower
The origin and evolution of the tower is shrouded in mystery and myth. According to the historian Diodorus Siculus, the tower was built by an Athenian commander named Alcibiades in 408 BC, to control the movements of the Persian ships in the Bosphorus. Some also believe that the tower was connected to a Greek king who built a similar tower on the opposite shore, and used a chain to block the strait.
During the Byzantine era, the tower served as a watchtower and a defense point, and was known by various names, such as Leander’s Tower and Damalis Tower. The tower was involved in several wars and conflicts between the Byzantines, the Venetians, and the Ottomans. According to some sources, the tower was destroyed by the Venetian fleets in 1110, and rebuilt by the Byzantine emperor Manuel Comnenos in 1116. Later, the tower was captured by the Ottoman sultan Mehmed II during the siege of Constantinople in 1453.
The Ottomans made several changes and renovations to the tower, such as adding a wooden pavilion, a lead roof, and a lantern. The tower was also used as a tax collection point, a quarantine station, and a lighthouse. The tower witnessed several cholera epidemics, and was used to isolate the infected patients. The tower was also damaged by several fires and earthquakes, and underwent several restoration projects.
In the 20th century, the tower was converted into a museum and a restaurant, and opened to the public. The tower also became a symbol of Istanbul, and featured in many movies, books, and songs. The tower also started to offer a ferry service and a cafe, making it more accessible and attractive to visitors.
Attractions and Features of the Maiden’s Tower
The tower offers a variety of attractions and features for visitors, such as:
Museum
The museum is located inside the tower, and spans five floors. The museum showcases the history and artifacts of the tower, from the ancient times to the present day. The museum also has an observation deck, which offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. The museum is open from 9 am to 7 pm, every day of the week. The ticket price is 20 TL for adults, 10 TL for students and seniors, and free for children under 6. The contact details of the museum are +90 216 342 4747 and info@kizkulesi.com.tr.
Restaurant
The restaurant is located on the top floor of the tower, and serves dinner and drinks. The restaurant features Turkish cuisine, live music, and special events. The restaurant also offers stunning views of the illuminated city and the sparkling sea. The restaurant is open from 8:30 pm to 12 am, every day of the week. The menu includes:
Appetizers: Hummus, cheese plate, stuffed vine leaves, etc.
Main courses: Lamb chops, grilled fish, chicken skewers, etc.
Desserts: Baklava, rice pudding, Turkish delight, etc.
Drinks: Wine, beer, coffee, tea, etc.
The reservations are required, and can be made online or by phone. The dress code is smart casual.
Cafe
The cafe is located on the ground floor of the tower, and serves breakfast, lunch, and snacks. The cafe features Turkish delicacies, drinks, and scenic views. The cafe is open from 9 am to 7 pm, every day of the week. The offerings include:
Breakfast: Eggs, cheese, olives, bread, jam, honey, etc.
Lunch: Soup, salad, sandwich, pizza, pasta, etc.
Snacks: Cake, cookie, muffin, ice cream, etc.
Drinks: Coffee, tea, juice, soda, etc.
The cafe offers a cozy and relaxing spot to enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee and a slice of baklava, while admiring the view of the Bosphorus and the city.
Ferry
The ferry service is operated by the tower, and connects the tower with three locations on the mainland: Kabatas, Salacak, and Uskudar. The ferry runs every 15 minutes, from 9 am to 7 pm, every day of the week. The price of the ferry is 15 TL for adults, and 10 TL for children. The duration of the trip is about 10 minutes. The ferry is a convenient and fun way to reach the tower, and enjoy the views of the strait and the city.
Boat
The boat service is also offered by the tower, and allows visitors to book a private boat tour to see the tower from different angles and perspectives. The boat service is available from 9 am to 7 pm, every day of the week. The price of the boat service is 250 TL for up to 4 people, and 50 TL for each additional person. The duration of the tour is about 30 minutes. The boat service is a perfect option for those who want to enjoy a romantic and exclusive experience, especially during the sunset.
Legends and Stories of the Maiden’s Tower
The tower is associated with several legends and stories, which add to its charm and mystery. Some of the most famous ones are:
Leandros and Hero
This is the story of the young lovers who met at the tower, and how their love ended tragically. Leandros was a handsome young man who lived on the European side of the Bosphorus. He fell in love with Hero, a beautiful priestess who served at the tower on the Asian side.
Every night, Hero would light a lantern at the top of the tower, and Leandros would swim across the strait, guided by her light, to meet her. One stormy night, however, the wind blew out the lantern, and Leandros lost his way and drowned in the dark waters. When Hero saw his body washed ashore, she threw herself into the sea, and joined him in death.
King’s Daughter and Snake
This is the story of the king who built the tower to protect his daughter from a prophecy that said she would die from a snake bite, and how the prophecy came true despite his efforts. The king loved his daughter dearly, and was terrified by the prophecy. He decided to build a tower on a small island, and keep his daughter there, away from any snakes. He also provided her with everything she needed, and visited her frequently. One day, however, he brought her a basket of fruits as a gift, not knowing that a snake had hidden inside it. When the princess opened the basket, the snake bit her, and she died in her father’s arms.
Battal Gazi and Byzantine Princess
This is the story of the Muslim warrior who fell in love with the Byzantine princess who lived in the tower, and how he rescued her from her father’s wrath and married her. Battal Gazi was a brave and noble warrior who fought against the Byzantines. He saw the princess one day, when he was sailing near the tower, and was captivated by her beauty. He sent her a message, and she replied, saying that she loved him too. They decided to elope, and Battal Gazi came to the tower with his men. He fought his way to the princess, and carried her to his boat. Her father, the Byzantine emperor, was furious, and sent his army to chase them. Battal Gazi managed to escape, and took the princess to his homeland, where they lived happily ever after.
The Maiden’s Tower is a historic and romantic landmark of Istanbul, with a rich and diverse history, a variety of attractions and features, and a collection of legends and stories. Whether you are interested in culture, cuisine, or romance, the tower has something for everyone.
The best time to visit the tower is in the evening, when you can enjoy the sunset and the night view of the city. You can also book a private boat tour to see the tower from different angles and perspectives. The tower is also close to other popular attractions in Istanbul, such as the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.
If you are ready to experience the magic and charm of the Maiden’s Tower, don’t wait any longer. Book your travel package to Istanbul today, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
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