Everything you need to know about Istanbul’s most important iconic structures, located on the skyline of Emaar SkyView, is in this guide.
Galata Tower
Galata Tower, which is included in the “Tentative List of World Heritage” of Unesco, is located in Beyoğlu as an architecture that has largely preserved its originality from the Byzantine Empire period to the present and has become one of the symbols of Istanbul. The building, which is 68 meters high and has a unique panoramic view of Istanbul, was built as part of the Genoese walls and has been used as a fire watchtower for a long time. Artifacts reflecting the 16-century history of Istanbul are exhibited in the Galata Tower, which is open for service as a museum.
Prince’s Islands
Adalar district, one of the symbols of Istanbul, is one of the indispensable locations of the summer months. Consisting of a total of 9 islands, the Adalar district is known as the Prince’s Islands. Only 4 of the 9 islands, namely Büyükada, Heybeliada, Kınalıada, Burgazada, Sedef Island, Yassıada, Sivriada, Kaşık Island, Tavşan Adası (Rabbit Island) and Vordonos Island, have transportation and settlement permits. Büyükada, Heybeliada, Kınalıada and Burgazada can be reached from both the Anatolian and European sides of Istanbul. Adalar, with their fish restaurants, streets bougainvillea-covered streets, beaches and museums isolated from the city, is one of the indispensable locations of Istanbul.
The Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque was built by Sedefkar Mehmed Ağa in the 17th century (1609-1617) at the request of Sultan Ahmed I. The mosque, one of the important architectural monuments that make up the Istanbul skyline, is the largest sized sultan mosque in Istanbul. There are tiles representing the unique understanding of art of the period, mother-of-pearl embroideries and calligraphy decorations. It is a historical example from the point of view of the art of Islamic ornament art.
Hagia Sophia Mosque
Hagia Sophia, which has survived from the Byzantine Empire to the present day, was started to be built during the reign of Constantine the 1st. Hagia Sophia, whose construction started in 360 AD, was rebuilt 3 times due to historical events, wars and natural disasters. At the time of its construction, it was used as the Eastern Roman Imperial Church. The minarets of Hagia Sophia, which began to be used as a mosque with the conquest of Istanbul, were added 1000 years after its construction. In order for the work to reach the present day, consolidation studies were carried out by Mimar Sinan. The architect of the two minarets of Hagia Sophia is also Mimar Sinan. Hagia Sophia is used as a mosque today.
Topkapi Palace
The construction of the Topkapi Palace, built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, began in 1460 and was completed in 1478.The construction of Topkapi Palace, which Fatih Sultan Mehmet had built as a signature after conquering Istanbul in 1453, began in 1460 and was completed in 1478.
Topkapi Palace is located in one of the oldest historical districts of Istanbul, at the intersection of the historical peninsula known as the “Golden Horn (Golden Horn)” and the Bosphorus of Istanbul, in Sarayburnu. It is a complex located on an area of 700,000 square meters on the eastern Roman acropolis.
Topkapi Palace was used as the administration house, the residence of the sultan and the princes during the Ottoman period. With the proclamation of the Republic, Topkapi Palace was opened to the public as a museum. For this reason, it has the title of the first museum of the Republic.
Haydarpaşa Railway Station
Haydarpaşa Railway Station was completed in 1908 as the first station of the Istanbul-Baghdad Railway and started to serve. Unlike the classical architecture of the period, it has a neo-classical architectural structure. On the foundation of Haydarpaşa Railway Station, which is known for its proximity to the sea, 1100 wooden piles, each of which is 21 meters long, driven into the water, as in many buildings in Venice, were placed, and a 5-storey structure was built on this foundation. The roof of the station building, which was built very solidly, was made of wood and in the form of a ‘mansard roof’, a style very often used in classical German architecture.
Selimiye Barracks
Selimiye Barracks (Turkish: Selimiye Kışlası), also known as Scutari Barracks, is a Turkish Army barracks, which was built first in 1800 by Sultan Selim III for the soldiers of the newly established Nizam-ı Cedid (literally “New Order”). It serves as a barracks. The architectural work in Üsküdar district of Istanbul was allocated to British soldiers during the Crimean War. In 1854, Florence Nightingale came to Selimiye Barracks to treat British soldiers wounded in the Crimean War. The room where Florence Nightingale and the nurses stayed has been turned into a museum today. Selimiye Barracks, which continued to be used by the army during the Republican period, served as Selimiye Military Secondary School for a short period of time. Today, it serves as the headquarters of the First Army of Turkish Land Forces.
Dolmabahçe Palace
Dolmabahçe Palace, the construction of which was completed in 1856, was built by Sultan Abdulmecid. Dolmabahçe Palace is located in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul. Since the location of the palace stands out for being a “natural harbor”, it has been known as a harbor for centuries and as the location of the imperial palaces. The area where the Dolmabahçe Palace is located was called Hasbahçe (literally: Private garden) during the Ottoman period; it belongs to the sultan and his dynasty. With the proclamation of the Republic, it was announced that Dolmabahçe Palace was made open to the public. Located in the heart of the Bosphorus, the Palace is identified with the great leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. A memorial service is held at Dolmabahçe Palace every November 10 to commemorate Atatürk, who died at Dolmabahçe Palace.
Ülker Stadium Fenerbahçe Şükrü Saraçoğlu Sports Complex
Ülker Stadium Fenerbahçe Şükrü Saraçoğlu Sports Complex is the home ground of major Turkish multi-sport club Fenerbahçe Sports Club. In the sports complex, which has a seating capacity of 50,530 people, there is a store where the team’s fans may find licensed Fenerbahçe products and a museum telling the history of the club. Ülker Stadium Fenerbahçe Şükrü Saraçoğlu Sports Complex is located in Kadıköy district of Istanbul.
Bosphorus
The Bosporus or Bosphorus also known as the Strait of Istanbul is a gateway connecting Asia and Europe and has a length of 30 kilometers. It is the point that connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara.
There are 3 bridges in total on the Bosphorus; Bosphorus Bridge, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge. Bosphorus Bridge (15 July Martyrs Bridge), known as the first bridge connecting the Asian and European continents by road; is also known as the first suspension bridge built on the Istanbul Strait.
The total length of the Bosphorus of Istanbul is 29.5 km, and the average depth of the bosphorus is known as 61 meters, but the deepest areas of the bosphorus are about 120 meters. The narrowest part of the Bosphorus is the section between Rumeli and Anadolu Hisarı and has a total width of 760 meters. The widest part is about 3600 meters.
Golden Horn
One of the oldest residential centers in the world, the Golden Horn is the inner harbor of Istanbul. This bay, called Khrysokeras (Golden Horn) in the time of the Byzantines, was also called Halic-i Konstantiniye (Golden Horn of Konstantiniye) during the Ottoman period. The Golden Horn stretches for 8 km from the aforementioned two river junctions between Sarayburnu and Tophane.
Haliç continues to be known as the “Golden Horn” by Europeans, and the place of origin of this name is based on a Greek legend. The legend begins with the fact that the mother goddess Hera, having learned that her husband Zeus is in love with the beautiful Io, turns Io into a horned cow and haunts a fly on her head. Io, who hit her head to the right and left while running away from the fly, separates the pieces of land and creates deep rifters, and one of these rifters is the Golden Horn. Then Io finally goes a shore and gives birth to a daughter, whom she names Keroessa. When the girl’s name turns into “keros”, that is, “horn” over time, this name is given to the area that we know as the Golden Horn by Keroessa’s son Byzas. The Golden Horn, who is said to be a place where the streets are paved with gold due to its productivity, has come to the present day as the “Golden Horn” with the addition of “Gold” by the Westerners.
Ülker Sports Arena
Ülker Sports Arena is designed as a large showground with a capacity of 13,500 people and a ceiling height of 28 meters. The sports complex, known as the Fenerbahçe Basketball team’s home ground, is not only a venue for sports events, but also a showground where world-famous stars perform, from concerts to theaters.
Çamlıca Hill
Çamlıca, a peaceful neighborhood in Üsküdar, stands out as one of Istanbul’s oldest and most beautiful districts. This unique area, where nature and history intertwine, is famous for Çamlıca Hill, one of the highest points on the Anatolian side. Reflecting the history of Üsküdar with its traditional architecture and elegant gardens, Çamlıca serves as a breath of fresh air for its residents and visitors.
This extraordinary district is home to two magnificent hills: Büyük Çamlıca and Küçük Çamlıca. At Emaar Skyview, you can savor the panoramic views of Istanbul, surrounded by a myriad of shades of green, creating unforgettable moments for visitors.
Büyük Çamlıca Hill offers stunning views of Istanbul’s mesmerizing landscape, making it an ideal spot for those wishing to escape the city’s hustle and immerse themselves in nature. Known for its historic mansions, pavilions, and cool shady areas, this district is also notable for its elegant structures from the Ottoman period. This unique corner of Üsküdar has a historical significance as a resting and hunting ground for Ottoman sultans and their families.
The region also holds a spiritual atmosphere with its religious and historical structures, such as the Büyük Çamlıca Mosque. This magnificent building has become a symbol of Üsküdar, adding a new dimension to Istanbul’s skyline. Built with a modern interpretation of classic Ottoman architecture, the mosque impresses visitors with its architectural beauty and spiritual tranquility. From the mosque’s courtyard and gardens, visitors can experience a spiritual journey while enjoying the panoramic views of the city.
Çamlıca Hill and the Büyük Çamlıca Mosque present a unique blend of Üsküdar’s spirituality and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the mosque’s elegant decorations and the extensive green areas outside, featuring flower gardens and lush walking paths. Families can unwind in this area, ideal for nature walks and picnics, shedding the fatigue of city life.
Çamlıca is also known for its historic mansions, pavilions, and fountains from the Ottoman era. Its historical fabric, blended with modern cafés and restaurants, offers visitors both a historical and contemporary experience. The hunting pavilions of Ottoman sultans and various religious structures stand as vivid witnesses to the district’s rich cultural heritage.
For nature walks, picnics, and enjoyable family activities, Çamlıca is one of the most beautiful spots Üsküdar has to offer. While children play in the playgrounds, adults can admire the historical texture and natural beauty, making this district a natural wonder within the city.
You can observe this historic neighborhood of Üsküdar and Çamlıca Hill from Emaar Skyview. Plan your visit by checking ticket prices at bilet.emaareglence.com. Get your ticket at an affordable price and discover this hidden paradise of Istanbul’s Üsküdar, with its historical buildings and natural beauty. We welcome everyone looking to escape the chaos of the city to Emaar Skyview. Everyone wishing to see Çamlıca Hill and Istanbul’s stunning skyline from a panoramic perspective is invited to this captivating new-generation observation tower!
