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The Sultanahmet district can rightfully be called one of the most densely populated and lively parts of Istanbul. Most travelers, finding themselves in the vast expanses of the beautiful Turkish city for the first time, begin their acquaintance with it from this area. Historically, a huge number of ancient sights and interesting museum complexes are concentrated in Sultanahmet, so millions of tourists from all over the world flock here.

Once on the territory of the quarter there were many magnificent palaces, built back in the days when Istanbul was called Constantinople and played the role of the main city of Byzantium. After the Turkish conquerors came to these lands, the lion's share of the grandiose structures was destroyed and destroyed, and literally on the rubble the Ottomans built a new area of ​​the future modern metropolis. Sultanahmet has enormous historical value. The quarter is under the protection of UNESCO and is included in the list of sites world heritage.

One of the symbols of the area is the Blue Mosque

The most beautiful quarter of Istanbul can, without exaggeration, become a visual history textbook, from which you can simultaneously learn about the past life and development of the Roman, Greek, Byzantine and Ottoman peoples. Yes, Sultanahmet is a large historical encyclopedia, and one day is clearly not enough to study it. But it is quite possible to leaf through and capture its brightest pages in memory.

You can get to Sultanahmet by HavaIst bus route ist-1S to the Sultanahmet stop.

From Sabiha Gokcen Airport

Sabiha Gokcen Airport

If you get to Sultanahmet from Sabiha Gokcen Airport, you can use the Havataş bus, the fare is 15 liras. The bus is coming to Taksim Square, from which you can continue the journey in two ways:

1.Walk (about 10 minutes) to the T1 tram stop - Nut Mimar Sinan University, take the tram and get to the Sultanahmet stop.

2.Take a taxi from Taksim to Sultanahmet

I do not recommend taking a bus from Taksim to Sultanahmet, as you will have to change trains several times.

Sultanahmet Historical District on the map:

Istanbul is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful cities peace. Abundance historical monuments, lush palaces, ancient mosques, coupled with a mild subarctic climate and an atmosphere permeated with notes of oriental exoticism, make it incredibly attractive for tourists.

Istanbul is surrounded from the north and south by the Black and Marmara seas, and The Bosphorus Strait divides the city across into the Asian, or Anatolian, and younger, European parts. According to 2011 data, the population of the city, together with residents of the suburbs, is almost 13.5 million people.

The tourist mecca for newcomers is mainly the areas of the European part of the city. Ilche ​​(municipal areas) are especially popular among visitors. Fatih and Beyoglu.

1. On the territory of Fatih, the center of ancient Constantinople, there are Topkapi Palace, Suleymaniye Mosque, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern.
2. Beyoglu, also known as Pera, is famous for Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Galata Tower, many mosques, synagogues and Christian churches.

1 Turkish lira (TL) = $0.30

That is why those who come to Istanbul for the first time are recommended to stay within their borders: in hotels near Sultanahmet, Laleli, Gulhane or Aksaray stations, close to the most important attractions.

The city's attractions

Interesting and beautiful places There are a lot of places in Turkey where every tourist wants to go. We have prepared small guide to Istanbul with the most significant attractions that you must visit. Photos and descriptions are attached to each object.

It is unlikely that you will be able to see the entire city in 3-5 days, but you can still see most of its beauties.

Sultanahmet Meydani is the key square of Istanbul; getting here is not difficult even for an inexperienced tourist.

Or Hagia Sophia (Aysofya Meydani), a wonderful monument of Byzantine architecture. Its construction was completed in 537. For almost a thousand years, the temple remained the largest Christian shrine.

In 1453, it remained perhaps the only undestroyed cathedral in Constantinople captured by the Turks. Sultan Mahmed Fatih the Conqueror ordered it to be converted into the Hagia Sophia Mosque, and later four minarets were added to the main building. After the Ottoman Empire ceased to exist, Hagia Sophia opened its doors to visitors as a museum.

Hagia Sophia is visible to everyone who arrives at Sultanahmet Square. He open to the public daily, from April 15 to the end of September, open from 9:00 to 19:00, during the rest of the year - from 9:00 to 17:00.

Ticket price: 40TL.

(Sultanahmet Camii), or Blue Mosque, according to the plan of Sultan Ahmet I, who ordered its construction, should surpass in size and outshine Hagia Sophia, which stands opposite. Construction lasted seven years and was completed by 1616, causing a scandal in religious circles: due to a misunderstanding, six minarets were built, like the main shrine in Mecca, instead of four.

It is free to visit and is open daily from 9:00 to 17:30. Please note that tourists are not allowed inside during prayers; It is also necessary to comply with the dress code: no exposed shoulders, bellies or knees; women must wear a headdress.

Before entering the mosque, you must take off your shoes and put them in a bag.

Basilica Cistern, or Yerebatan Sarnici, former reservoir in the center of Istanbul, can hold up to one hundred thousand tons of water. It was built by the Byzantines to use water during long sieges of the city. Since 1987, the place has been transformed into an unusual museum.

The traveler goes down the stairs and finds himself in a echoing spacious hall filled with rows of antique columns supporting the ceiling. To move around the hall, wooden flooring was built: the floor is hidden by water flowing into the dungeon; fish splash in it and the light is mirrored, illuminating the columns. Thanks to excellent acoustics, classical music concerts are held here.

The entrance to the Basilica is a small pavilion - easy to find near Hagia Sophia. The museum is open in summer from 9:00 to 18:30, in winter - an hour shorter.

Ticket price: 20TL.

Topkapi and Gulhane Park

The next metro station after Sultanahmet is Gulhane, where those wishing to visit Topkapi Palace get off, which served as the residence of the sultans before the construction of Dolmabehce Ottoman Empire, that is, from 1540 to the middle of the 19th century.

In 1923, by order of Ataturk, the palace began to be used as a museum. Topkapi is incredibly popular among tourists. Who is not interested in looking at the private chambers of the sultans of their harem?

A ticket to the palace costs 40TL, together with a tour of the harem - 65TL.

IN summer time Topkapi is open from 9:00 to 19:00, in winter - from 9:00 to 17:00.

Through Topkapi Palace you can get to another interesting place - Gulhane Park(Gulhane Parki). It is especially interesting in April, when thousands of tulips are blooming. In summer, pink bushes will delight the eye. During the reconstruction of the park in 2003, 80,000 rose seedlings were planted here!

If you follow the dark blue metro line further from Gulhane and exit at Eminenu, you will only have to walk a couple of steps to the stunning Suleymaniye Camil Mosque with its austere luxury. The complex not only amazes with its mesmerizing beauty, but also amazes with the durability of its structure. Sulaymaniyah has withstood 89 major earthquakes!

Sulaymaniyah is open from 9:00 to 17:00, every day except Friday. Best time for visiting - from 9:00 to 12:30 and from 13:45 to 15:45.

As in any mosque, non-believers are not allowed inside during prayers.

Beyoglu Main Square

A visit to Beyoglu starts from Taksim Square ( Taksim Meydani). Despite its peaceful name (“taksim” translates as “division”), the spirit of revolution hovers over the square. Here, at the foot of the monument in honor of the proclamation of Turkey as a Republic, the political life of the city is in full swing. It is on Taksim that demonstrations and rallies take place.

In addition to its important historical role in the life of the city, Taksim is a transport hub. Many bus lines pass through the square, there is one of the metro stations and an underground boiler line connecting Taksim with the Cabotage pier.

1. Getting to Taksim Square from Sabiha Gokcen Airport The easiest way is by Havatash buses. The trip will take 1.5 hours excluding traffic jams.
2. From Ataturk Airport There are also regular bus services to Taksim. Another convenient way to get there is to take the metro at Havaliman station, follow the red line to Yenikapi station, where you need to change to the green line, going directly to Taksim.

From Taksim you can take the retro tram to the Odakule stop. Here visitors can get acquainted with the private art museum of Pera, opened under the patronage of the influential Kirach family. The museum is located on the top five floors of the former Bristol Hotel. Visitors celebrate Refined taste in the preparation of exhibitions by staff, as well as a comfortable intimate atmosphere. The museum has a souvenir shop and a cozy cafe. According to legend, intelligence agents from all countries participating in World War II stayed at the former hotel.

The museum is open daily except Mondays and on the first days of major events. religious holidays. From Tuesday to Saturday: from 12:00 to 8:00, on Sunday: from 12:00 to 18:00.

Ticket price: 20TL, for beneficiaries -10TL. On Fridays from 8:00 to 22:00 admission is free.

Dolmabahce - a masterpiece of Turkish Baroque

Dolmabahce Palace, now a museum, was built from 1842 to 1853. By the 19th century, representatives of the nobility of the Ottoman Empire developed a certain interest in the achievements of the West. Sultan Abdulmecid 1 wished that the new palace complex performed in a modern and brilliant Baroque style. The construction of the complex cost the Sultan a tidy sum: 14 tons of gold were spent on finishing the interiors! Among other things, the walls of the palace were decorated with paintings by Ivan Aivazovsky.

You can come and see how the last sultans lived on any day except Monday and Thursday. The museum is open from 9:00 to 16:00.

Independent inspection of the museum's exhibition is completely excluded - only in groups accompanied by a guide. The cost of a full excursion ticket will be 40TL, a separate visit to the selamlika (male part) and the harem will cost 30TL and 20TL respectively.

You can find the palace museum a 10-minute walk from the pier and the Kabatash metro station of the same name, moving along coastline Bosphorus away from the center.

About the Anatolian part of Istanbul

Those who are visiting Istanbul not for the first time will be interested in visiting it Asian, Anatolian, part. First of all, the Kadikoy district, where the tart, authentic atmosphere of the eastern city has been preserved. From the European part people arrive here by boat or by Havatas minibus from Sabiha Gokcen Airport.

The first settlements on the site of Kadikoy were founded by the Dorians in 608 BC, so this area is the oldest in Istanbul. Experienced travelers recommend taking a walk along the streets of Sogultu Cesme, ending with Altiyol Square with the famous statue of the Bull (by Jules Bonheur), Ali Suavi (Street of Craftsmen), which fully lives up to its name with many shops and workshops. And, of course, you can’t miss getting to know Moda Street, popular with local bohemians.

In other areas of the Asian part there are not as many attractions as in the European part; the influence of Western culture is felt. In addition to Kadikoy, tourists will certainly be interested in Princes' Islands(Adalar), once a place of exile for nobles disliked by the court, and today a place with a developed club infrastructure.

Istanbul Map

Several maps necessary for tourists (clickable):

City map with attractions

Map in Russian

Istanbul metro map

Watch the video, where you will find even more attractions of Istanbul:

The main Turkish city, the former capital of the Byzantine Empire, receives millions of tourists every year.

People come here to get acquainted with history and stroll through significant places.

The main attractions are located in the historical part of Istanbul.

general information

Istanbul is a city that is located right away in two parts of the world - in Europe and Asia. It is divided into two parts by the Bosphorus Strait. and European - two very different components of the city.

Basic historical places, which attract tourists, are located in its European part. Historical Center Istanbul is protected by UNESCO, and it is also included in the World Heritage List because of its historical and architectural monuments here you can find them at almost every step. The main historical areas are Fatih and Beyoglu.

First of all, all guests rush to the Fatih area, here is the largest “concentration” of attractions and monuments. The symbol of Istanbul is the Sultanahmet Mosque, or the Blue Mosque.(details). It is located in the part of the Fatih district of the same name. Sultanahmet attracts tourists with its beauty and interesting history.

There is a legend associated with the construction of the mosque, which reveals the secret of how it happened that the temple has six minarets. Sultanahmet is a functioning mosque, admission is free. You can come at any time from morning to evening, except for those hours when Muslims perform namaz.

Opposite the Blue Mosque there is a former Christian temple (it was built in Constantinople), and now. Inside the temple, Christian frescoes have been preserved, which were hidden by plaster for a long time, since the Turks, who conquered Constantinople (history of the city), rebuilt Hagia Sophia into a mosque. The entrance ticket to Hagia Sophia costs about 25 liras (13 dollars), in winter the museum is open from 9:00 to 17:00, in summer until 19:00.

Topkapi Sultans' Palace(details) is located a little behind the Hagia Sophia Museum. This huge complex, which is a must see for those who come to Istanbul. Until the 19th century, Topkapi was the main residence of the Sultans. This is one of the world's largest museums - 65,000 exhibits are stored here. There is also a harem in which the wives and concubines of the sultans lived.

Entrance to Topkapi costs 30 liras (about 15 dollars), to the harem - 15 liras (7 dollars). The museum opens at 9:00 and closes at 17:00 in winter, and at 19:00 in summer.

Nearby is main square Hippodrome, which is also worth a stroll. And see everyday life local residents from all sides.

The biggest market Kapaly Charshi(kapalı çarşı) is also located in Fatih. Here you can find everything: from souvenirs and sweets, to sheepskin coats and fur coats. Kapaly Charshi (details) is a mini city with shopping streets in the very center of the city. You can walk around the market from 9 am to 7 pm on any day except Sunday. If you are going to make purchases, do not forget about the main rule: it is customary to bargain in all Turkish bazaars.

The largest in Turkey Suleymaniye Mosque(Süleymaniye Camii) was built by order of Sultan Suleiman. The complex with madrasahs, canteens and its own baths is more reminiscent of an entire city block. On the territory there are the tombs of Sultan Suleiman and his wife Khyurem (Roksolana). Admission is free, you can come at any time except during prayer hours.

Dolmabahce(Dolmabahçe) – another Sultan’s palace. The last Turkish sultans lived here, starting from the end of the 19th century. A luxurious and pompous palace, built in the Baroque style, stands on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait. About 14 tons of gold were used to decorate the palace during construction. Entrance to the palace costs 30 liras, Dolmabahce is open (details) from 9:00 to 16:00

In the Fatih district there is Cariye Museum(Kariye Müzesi). This is a former Christian church that was built during the Byzantine Empire. Frescoes from the 14th century have been preserved inside the temple. Entrance ticket to the museum costs 15 liras ($7). Kariye, like most, is open every day from 9 am. In winter it closes at 5 pm, and in summer at 7 pm.

In the area you can find mini-city Miniaturk(details). Almost everything from Turkey is presented here in miniatures. The mini-city is open daily from 9 to 19:00, admission ticket can be purchased for 10 liras ($5).

On the map you can find a magnificent park called Gulhane(Gulhane Park). It is located near Topkapi. Previously, only sultans rested here, but now anyone can stroll through the magnificent squares.

Fountains with bridges, a myriad of flowers, comfortable benches - all this attracts both tourists and local residents here every day. Visitors to the park enjoy watching the storks and green parrots living in the park, which are not at all afraid of people.

Another historical area - Beyoglu. The first thing tourists visit is Istiklal Street (Istiklal caddesi). Walking along, you will certainly discover a lot of interesting things, and walking along this street will immerse you in the atmosphere of the 19th century. The famous historical tram runs along this avenue to Taksim Square. Vintage red carriages are especially popular among tourists. To ride a local attraction, you sometimes have to stand in a long line.

Colleagues, hello everyone!

Historically, Fatih is the richest historical district of Istanbul. The population density here is prohibitive, because about 500,000 people, or even more, live in a relatively small area. Almost like in my native Sevastopol.

But Fatih, as you understand, this is a very large district of the European part of Istanbul and we just can’t swallow it.

Therefore, let's virtually cut it into pieces-districts in order to get to know them better and understand their value in terms of tourism.

And here are its quarters:

• Sultanahmet
• Bayazit
• Laleli
• Aksaray
• Yenikapı
• Sirkeci
• Eminonu
• Balat

Sultanahmet District

The historical part of Istanbul, which is under protection UNESCO. Pedestrian streets, chic atmosphere, best cafes cities (albeit expensive ones), the holy trinity of attractions - Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque - all here.

The place is romantic, although noisy. But wherever you look, you are surrounded by sights and the breath of the Sea of ​​Marmara. What could be better?

In principle, you don’t need to go anywhere, and if you want, it’s at your service. The city center is pedestrianized and only trams and taxis travel along the road, which of course affects the atmosphere.

If possible, stay here. Without a doubt, this is the most hit offer you can count on. Hotels here can be of different classes: from luxurious apartments to modest rooms with authentic ceilings.

But almost everywhere you can expect to be rewarded with a breakfast terrace overlooking the city’s most important attractions.

Hotels in the area Sultnahmet better, and we’ll look at detailed examples in a separate article.

Beyazit District

Well, as they say, every frog praises its swamp. So now I’ll fill you with a basket of advantages of living in this area, since we lived here for the first time in Istanbul.

Bend your fingers:

1. Close location to the center. 2 tram stops to Sultanahmet or 10 minutes on foot. Well, there are only 5 stops to the Galata Bridge. Gorgeous!
2. Cheap food. In our area, food is actually 2 times cheaper than in the center. In addition, it is easy to get to the party place - the Kumkapi area
3. Inexpensive housing. 100-150 liras for a family room with breakfast!
4. Grand Bazaar 200 meters
5. Change money at the best rate in the city

The only negative that is worth considering is that the entire part of the Aksaray, Laleli, Bayazit districts, which is located between the tram tracks and the Sea of ​​Marmara, has a rather shabby hill.

We lived very close to the tram tracks, so there were no problems. But if your home is somewhere in the middle or even closer to the sea, then every day you will have to take a running start.

Keep this in mind if you are not a walker or have children with you.

From the sights Beyazit here is the Grand Bazaar and the triumphal column of Constantine, a couple of ancient Turkish hammams, mosques and several second-rate museums.

Here is our hotel Oban Suites Istanbul, which I recommend not only for the comfort and price, but also for the cool staff!

Laleli District

This is not a district, but a large shopping warehouse and a bouquet of street-shops. When my wife and I thought about buying something leather, we were sent straight here. Russian traders settle here, so the Russian language is understood here with a bang.

But don't think that the area Laleli- one big bazaar. Everything is very, very decent. True, don’t expect calm and soulful walks here. In the morning they will call you to do shopping, and in the evening they will whistle after you.

In terms of transport links, there are no complaints. Everything is very close by tram T1, although walking to the center is a bit far.

Aksaray District

This is the most extreme area that may interest a tourist.

The location is very good, along tram line T1, so there will be no problems with moving. Is the intersection of several stations public transport(bus to the airport and bus station) and highways.

Aksaray interesting only in terms of saving money on hotels. Mosques, Fatih Park and several small museums- that’s probably the whole list of attractions. Also suitable for those who don’t really like tourist places for accommodation.

Yenikapı District

This area is a large hub between several modes of transport. See for yourself:

• green branch metro M2– takes the audience to the Taksim quarter
• red branch metro M1– delivery of passengers to Aksaray and to the bus station
• train Marmaray– communication with the Asian side of Istanbul
• ferries IDO– they transport everyone to the coastal towns of Yalova, Bursa, Bandirma
• bus terminus IST-1Y from

Nearby is fish market and, according to the old Turkish tradition, across the road with fish restaurants.

From the area Yenikapı by bus along the Kennedy Coastal Highway you can get to the Sirkeci area, and if you take the hill by storm, you will end up in the Beyazit area.

But still, this area not very popular for tourists for check-in.

This is an area that is already located between Sultanahmet Square and the Galata Bridge leading to the so-called New town .

This is the second most popular area among tourists, and, I would say, even the first among independent travelers. Why?

Also, as in the case of the Beyazit area, it has all its advantages in terms of cheapness and accessibility to Sultanahmet Square. On the other hand, Eminönü with its ferries and seascapes is very close.

And one more bonus. The underground-underwater will transport you to Asian part Istanbul. You can't imagine a better location.

The famous Orient Express, Gulhane Park and Entertainment Center Hadzipasha - everyone is here.

Eminonu District

An interesting and lively corner of Istanbul, which, like Yenikapi, is located at a crossroads, but with more advantageous position for tourists.

All around the sea surface and attractions: Galata Bridge, Sultanahmet Square, New mosque and the Egyptian Bazaar. You won't get bored here. Moreover, in 15 minutes you can walk to my favorite Galata Tower.

The center of attention is the Eminönü piers, the largest and busiest in all of Istanbul. From here you can go anywhere.

The main specialization of the area is the sale of the famous Balik Ekmek. You can buy it anywhere, but in my guide I recommend where to try the most delicious ones.

It has its own bus station, from where buses will take you to any neighboring area. The airport bus also parks here. IST-1S.

But still for living instead Eminönü, I would rather consider the neighboring Sirkeci quarter.

This is the last area of ​​our overview of the Old Town. It is not as centrally located as the others mentioned, but has its own charm and atmosphere.

You can get here either by ferry that sails along the strait Golden Horn or by bus. There is no metro here, although very soon they are planning to launch a tram line along the coast from the Eminonu area.

Although quite recently this area was plagued by devastation and gypsy fights, today it takes on completely different shades. Orthodox churches, among which the magnificent Bulgarian Church , the remains of fortress walls and embankments for a walk along the strait.

Balat- This interesting option for those who are tired of the vain Sultanahmet and Eminonu. And housing prices here are really lower than in the previous two.

Well, friends, we have quietly covered the most popular district of Istanbul, Fatih. In we will walk through the areas through Galata Bridge . Well, then we’ll come to the conclusion where it will be most convenient for you to settle.

If you are planning to go to Istanbul, then you will find an increased concentration of tips and tricks in the “” guide. Juicy and authentic!

District name and name central square this area" Sultanahmet Square" or Sultanahmet Meydanı, comes from the same name Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), which was built in 1616. Part area is located on the site of the ancient Hippodrome (built in 203 AD by Septimius Severus), which is why many still continue to call the square Hippodrome or Meydany Hippodrome. Usually all tourists (it doesn’t matter whether they are traveling individually or in groups) begin their acquaintance with Istanbul precisely from this mercy. Many tourists and their hotel in the area, so as not to look for a taxi and have time to see all the main places on foot. Attractions in Sultanahmet within walking distance and you can do without transport.

Photo plan of the location of attractions in Sultanahmet

Designations of objects on the plan

1. Sultanahmet Square or Hippodrome Square(in this square there are: the German Fountain, the Egyptian Obelisk (Obelisk of Theodosius), the Serpentine Column and the Obelisk of Constantine. Read more about them below ↓ )
2. (Ibrahim Pasha Palace)
3. “Sultanahmet” light rail ()
4. (Gülhane Parkı) light rail ()

Sights of Sultanahmet Square (Hippodrome)

During the Byzantine period, the dividing barrier of the Hippodrome of Constantinople contained some bronze sculptures and columns. On the square Sultanahmet have survived to this day, Snake Column And Obelisk of Constantine, established in the Byzantine period. And in 1900, a German fountain, given to the city and Sultan Abdul Hamid II by the German Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Egyptian Obelisk (Obelisk of Theodosius)

Egyptian Obelisk (Obelisk of Theodosius) It is a tetrahedral monolith made of pink granite. The obelisk is very well preserved, as granite is a very strong and durable material. The obelisk was originally located in the Karnak Temple in Egypt, where it was installed in 1460 BC. in honor of the thirtieth anniversary of the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III and was almost 38 meters high. By order of Emperor Theodosius the Great in 390 AD. the obelisk was delivered to Constantinople, but during transportation the granite monolith burst into two parts, and therefore a part almost 20 m high and weighing about 282 tons was installed on a marble pedestal at the hippodrome.

Obelisk of Konstantin Bagryany

Obelisk of Constantine located in the southern part of the square Sultanahmet. The exact date of construction of the obelisk is unknown, but initially its height was about 32 meters. The obelisk received its name in honor of Constantine VII (Porphyrogenitus), who in the 10th century ordered the restoration of the monument. The 32-meter obelisk was made of massive, roughly hewn stone blocks and was lined with gilded bronze slabs with images of the military victories of Basil I (the Macedonian) - the grandfather of Constantine Porphyrogenitus. The top of the column was crowned by a huge bronze sphere. Now the height of the obelisk is 21 meters, but there are no bronze plates on it, since these plates were torn down by participants in the Fourth Crusade in 1202-1204, and in 1894 the obelisk was seriously damaged during an earthquake.

Snake Column

Snake Column is between Egyptian obelisk and the obelisk of Constantine. Initially Snake Column was in the sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi (Greece). The bronze column (tripod), created from the fused weapons of those killed during the battle of the Persians (Battle of Plataea - 479 BC), was transported to Constantinople in 324 AD. e. Constantine the Great.

German fountain

German fountain V Istanbul, located in the northern part of the square Sultanahmet opposite the tomb of Sultan Ahmed I. The fountain was built in honor of the second visit of the German Kaiser Wilhelm II to Istanbul. All fountain structures were manufactured in Germany and then transported to Germany. The octagonal fountain is made in the neo-Byzantine style and the dome of the fountain rests on eight columns made of green porphyry. The inside of the dome is covered with golden mosaics, and under the dome there are eight medallions in which you can see the monogram of Sultan Abdul Hamid II and the initials of Kaiser Wilhelm II. The opening of the fountain took place on January 27, 1901, the Kaiser’s birthday.