One of the most visited sights in Istanbul is the Rumeli Hisari fortress, which is located at the narrowest part of the Bosphorus. Wall fortifications look impressive. In Turkish, Bogazkesen Hisari is located in the Sariyer district.
The tower was built during the reign of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror and he named it Rumeli Hisari, for the purpose of controlling commercial and military traffic during the siege of Constantinople. The construction of the fortress lasted only 4 months, and it overlooked the Anatolian fortress located on the Anatolian side. Its area is about 30 hectares. Architect EH Ayverdi was in charge of building the fortress, and over 1,000 workers worked on it.
It was intended to stop attacks from the north. It served as a military fortress for only one year because Mehmet's armies conquered Constantinople and thus the original purpose of the fortress ended.
Throughout history, the tower was used as a barracks, a toll gate for the entrance to the Bosphorus, a prison, and the most beautiful purpose of the fortress is today - a tourist attraction. Visitors to the fortress come to see open-air theaters and to visit the museum where the history of the fortress is learned. Music concerts are held here during the summer season.
Although the fortress was damaged by an earthquake and fire, it preserved its appearance. Today, the fortress serves as a landmark. Inside it, many steps are not protected by a fence and you need to be very careful. It is not possible to bring in food and drinks during the tour.
• Working hours: every day except Wednesday from 09.30 to 16.30
• Price: a few lira
Author of the text:
Maja Glavaš, Bachelor with Honours in Communicology. Works in Tourism.
Contact: [email protected]; instagram: travel_europe1
Photo by Bilal Akpınar on Unsplash
