LEGENDS

One of the most enchanting stories of the 17th century is Hezarfen Ahmed Celebi's flight from Galata Tower. According to Evliya Celebi's Seyahatname, in 1638, Hezarfen jumped from the tower with wooden wings inspired by eagle wings, crossed the Bosphorus, and landed at Doğancılar Square in Üsküdar. This approximately 3.5 km flight is considered one of history's first successful glider flights.

One of Istanbul's most romantic legends is about Galata Tower. According to the legend, couples who climb the tower together will eventually get married. This belief has made the tower the scene of countless marriage proposals over the centuries. Vows made at sunset, accompanied by Istanbul's panoramic view, create some of the city's most romantic memories.

According to popular belief, there are secret tunnels beneath Galata Tower extending to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and even to the other side of the Bosphorus. Although archaeological excavations have revealed some underground structures, the existence of the long-distance tunnels described in legends has not been proven. Nevertheless, these stories continue to contribute to the tower's mysterious atmosphere.

Another popular legend tells of a Byzantine-era treasure buried in the tower's foundations or hidden rooms. During the fall of Constantinople in 1453, Byzantine nobles and merchants allegedly hid their valuables. Treasure hunters have followed this legend for centuries, but no one has found this treasure yet.