The iconic Galata Tower in Istanbul has reopened following extensive restoration work, once again welcoming visitors eager to explore its rich history. 
Restoration of the tower began in November 2023, initially closing the eighth floor to the public. On February 23, the entire structure was closed for exterior restoration and earthquake reinforcement. After months of work, the tower reopened on Saturday, May 25, attracting significant interest from both locals and tourists.
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism announced that the restoration was completed using modern technology in collaboration with academic experts. Special measures were taken to accommodate migratory swift birds nesting in the tower. To ensure a smooth visitor experience, the number of visitors is limited to 100 per hour.
The Galata Tower offers one of Istanbul's best views. Visitors shared their excitement and experiences on reopening day. Cihat Gülhan, visiting from Bursa, expressed his happiness about the reopening, having returned after finding it closed the previous day. Necmiye Ceyran noted the beauty and the crowd, wishing for a more organized opening. Mahmut Harput, who visited during the restoration, praised the tower's beauty and the diverse crowd it attracted.
The Galata Tower's history is a testament to Istanbul's rich past. The area became a Genoese trade colony in 1267, and the tower itself was built between 1348 and 1349 as a watchtower within the Galata walls. Over centuries, it played various roles under Byzantine and Ottoman rule, suffering damage and undergoing repairs, including significant restorations after the 1509 Istanbul earthquake.
Today, the Galata Tower stands as a symbol of Istanbul's enduring heritage, ready to share its storied past with visitors once more.
Restoration of the tower began in November 2023, initially closing the eighth floor to the public. On February 23, the entire structure was closed for exterior restoration and earthquake reinforcement. After months of work, the tower reopened on Saturday, May 25, attracting significant interest from both locals and tourists.
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism announced that the restoration was completed using modern technology in collaboration with academic experts. Special measures were taken to accommodate migratory swift birds nesting in the tower. To ensure a smooth visitor experience, the number of visitors is limited to 100 per hour.
The Galata Tower offers one of Istanbul's best views. Visitors shared their excitement and experiences on reopening day. Cihat Gülhan, visiting from Bursa, expressed his happiness about the reopening, having returned after finding it closed the previous day. Necmiye Ceyran noted the beauty and the crowd, wishing for a more organized opening. Mahmut Harput, who visited during the restoration, praised the tower's beauty and the diverse crowd it attracted.
The Galata Tower's history is a testament to Istanbul's rich past. The area became a Genoese trade colony in 1267, and the tower itself was built between 1348 and 1349 as a watchtower within the Galata walls. Over centuries, it played various roles under Byzantine and Ottoman rule, suffering damage and undergoing repairs, including significant restorations after the 1509 Istanbul earthquake.
Today, the Galata Tower stands as a symbol of Istanbul's enduring heritage, ready to share its storied past with visitors once more.