Beyazıt Tower
Travel Point Overview
Located within the main campus of Istanbul University in the historic Beyazıt district, Beyazıt Tower is one of Istanbul’s most iconic yet lesser-known landmarks. Built in 1749 as a fire watchtower, this 85-meter-tall structure has stood witness to centur
🏰 Beyazıt Tower: The Watchful Eye of Istanbul
Located within the main campus of Istanbul University in the historic Beyazıt district, Beyazıt Tower is one of Istanbul’s most iconic yet lesser-known landmarks. Built in 1749 as a fire watchtower, this 85-meter-tall structure has stood witness to centuries of change in the city.
🛠️ History and Architecture
Originally made of wood, the first version of the tower was destroyed in the Cibali Fire of 1756. Rebuilt in 1826, it was once again damaged during the Janissary revolt of the same year. The final and current version was constructed in 1828 by architect Senekerim Balyan under the order of Sultan Mahmud II.
The tower is composed of three main sections:
🔸 Watch Level
🔸 Signal Level
🔸 Flag Level
In the past, fires were reported using baskets during the day and lanterns at night from the tower — a crucial system in an age before modern communication.
💡 Weather Forecast by Light Signals
For many years, the tower was used to communicate weather forecasts to Istanbul residents through colored lights:
🔵 Blue: Clear skies
🟢 Green: Rain
🟡 Yellow: Fog
🔴 Red: Snow
This tradition ended in 1995 but was revived in 2010 by Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality as a nostalgic and symbolic gesture.
🕰️ Opening Hours & Visitor Info
📍 Open Hours: 09:30 AM – 4:30 PM
❌ Closed On:
- Mondays
- The first day of religious holidays
- January 1st (New Year’s Day)
📌 Note: Since the tower is located inside the Istanbul University campus, entry is typically limited to special events or with official permission.
🚶♂️ How to Get There
📌 Location: Beyazıt Square, Fatih – within Istanbul University’s Main Campus
🚋 Tram: Get off at Beyazıt - Kapalıçarşı on the T1 Kabataş–Bağcılar line
🚇 Metro: Vezneciler Station is within walking distance
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