Photo Essay: The Golden Horn

This estuary divides the European side of Istanbul and is mostly mistaken by firt time travellers as the Bosphorous. This horn-shaped water inland is one of the best natural harbours in the world. In the old days in was the base camp of the Ottoman and even the Byzantine Navies. It is surrounded by the oldest structures Ostanbul can offer, districts like Balat, Zeyrek, Cibali, Fener, Eyup, are amongts the must sees. In each district there are streets filled with numerous old wooden houses, churches and synagogues dating from Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman times. The Orthodox Patriarcate is located in Fener district which is just along the Golden Horn. Recently with the construction of the Kadir Has University (converted from an old tobacco factory) an underground cistern has been found. It is said to be as big as the Underground Cistern located in the Sultanahmet area (the old peninsula). This of course is very exciting. Further up the Golden Horn is the Eyup district where you can witness wonderful examples of Ottoman architecture. Especially Muslim from all over the globe tend to visit The Mosque & Tomb of Eyup who was the bearer of Prophet Mohammed. This mosque is visited by most Muslim pilgrims and most recently attracts foreign travellers as well. It is considerred as one of the holiest visits in İstanbul and as indicated above is along the Golden Horn. Another highlight and a must see is the Pierre Loti Hill where there is a boutique Cafe. This hill has a fabolous view of the Golden Horn. You must have a local tea in the cafe and enjoy the view, its definately worth while.

Today, Golden Horn has attractive parks and promenades line the shores, a picturesque scene especially as the sun goes down over the water. It is considerred as and alternative route for travellers who have visited the major sites in Istanbul. After the fullday ıstanbul tour and the fullday Bosphorous tour Golden Horn is definately the third place to visit.