Top Monuments to Visit in Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world; and has been for centuries. As a strategic location and an epicentre of civilization, many nations chose to establish themselves in Istanbul for many years leaving behind numerous monuments. You can read more about them here to get detailed information about the monuments in Istanbul:

1. Column of Cemberlitas

Istanbul is a historic city also known as the City of Seven Hills. One of those seven hills boasts Çemberlitaş Column. Built in 330  to honour Emperor Constantine I, it was partially restored in 1081. The column has been the topic of many legends.

2. Taksim Republic Monument

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Located in Taksim Square, one of the most famous squares in Istanbul, this monument was built by Italian sculptor Pietro Canonica with the help of Hadi Bey and Sabiha Hanim.

The monument was completed in 1928 and represents the layout of modern Turkey, which has important meaning to Turks. The two opposite sides of the monument represent different periods. One side of the monument symbolizes the Independence Period, the other the Republican Period, established after the War of Independence. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, members of the Assembly, people and students are represented in the monument.

3. Column of Marcian

This historical monument, built during the Byzantine period, was erected to commemorate and honour the Byzantine Emperor Markianos. Centrally located, it has been the subject of many legends; one of which claims the column whispers about whether the women passing by are virgins or not. The impressive motifs on the upper part of the monument continue to be exhibited after undergoing careful restoration.

4. Walled Obelisk

After Istanbul, previously named Constantinople, was formerly announced as the capital by the Roman Empire this column was erected. This impressive monument, built to commemorate and honour Constantine the Great, is embossed with many brass plates that contain important evidence of occupation and wars in the region. The column is 32 metres high and was built in the 10th century and is described as talismanic in legends.

5. Fatih Sultan Mehmet Monument

Mehmet the Conqueror is an important figure in the history of Turkey. After overseeing the conquest of Istanbul in 1453 Fatih Sultan Mehmet ruled the great empire from a very young age and ensured it continued successfully despite various difficulties. This monument will fascinate you.

6. Aviation Martyrs’ Monument

Built in 1916 to commemorate 3 Turkish youths named Fethi, Sadık and Nuri, the structure, which stands on a marble base and consists of a column with a broken structure. During the First World War, the three young pilots were required to fly from Turkey to Cairo. As a result of great misfortune, they became martyrs and this monument was built to commemorate their sacrifice. Behind the monument, stands the old Fatih City Hall which today serves as the rectorate building of the private university.

7. Kadikoy Bull Statue

Kadikoy Bull Statue is one of the strangest statues you’ll see in Istanbul. Built by French sculptor Isidore Bonheur, the statue is over 150 years old and is known as a symbol of strength and anger The bull attracts a lot of attention, especially from children who love to climb on it and have their photo taken. This bull statue has been relocated across  Istanbul many times for a variety of logistical and political reasons. It was brought to its present location in 1987.

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