The Maiden’s Tower
Another structure that forms the silhouette of Istanbul is the Maiden’s Tower. The tower is one of the most romantic places in Istanbul and it is located in Salacak offshore of Üsküdar district. There is no clear source about when the Maiden’s Tower was built but some sources say that the construction process started in 341 BC.
The Maiden’s Tower is the subject of many different legends, was also known by the names Damalis and Leandros in the past. Damalis was a name derived from the wife of the King of Athens, Kharis. This name was given to the tower because Damalis was buried on these beaches when he died. During the Byzantine Empire, it was also known as Arcla, which means small castle. After the conquest of Istanbul, the tower on the island was demolished and a wooden tower was built in its place. The tower which could not withstand fire due to its wooden structure was rebuilt in 1725.
Maiden’s Tower has been used for purposes such as tax collection from ships, defense, quarantine hospital, and radio station throughout history. Today it is one of the first places that come to mind for romantic dinners and marriage proposals. Today, the tower is visited both as a museum and a restaurant. You can easily reach the Maiden’s Tower by taking the boats that depart from Salacak every 15 minutes.