THE GOLDEN HORN AND THE GALATA BRIDGE

Galata Tower and Galata Bridge

Along with other geographical advantages, one of the most important factors that encouraged the selection of the old city peninsula centuries ago is the existence of a natural, well-protected harbour by it. The slender 8-kilometer gulf called the Golden Horn with two small creeks at its apex separates the peninsula from the Galata section of the city.

A perfect harbour with no currents or tide, the gulf used to be called the "Horn of Prosperity" because of the fertile lands by its shores, the variety and abundance of fish in its waters, and the sources of sweet water around it. Although contamination has become a very serious problem during recent decades, many effective measures to salvage the gulf have begun to be enforced in the last few years, and it is hoped that the Golden Horn will gradually return to its original state.

There are three bridges crossing the Golden Horn, the outermost two of which are floating bridges with gates. The Galata Bridge and its environs near the entrance of the gulf - the oldest of the three - constitute the most lively part of the city. The passenger boats shuttling to many points on the Asian side of the city and on the two coasts of the Bosphorus depart from piers here.

The Galata Bridge is also an ideal spot for enjoying the panorama of the old city. During working hours each day, tens of thousands of people cross the Golden Horn on foot via this bridge.



There are many places of historical importance on the shores of the Golden Horn. The Patriarchate of the Eastern Orthodox Church has been here a very long time. Also the tomb of Eyub Sultan, the standard-bearer of the Prophet Mohammed who died during a 7th century Arab siege of Istanbul, is located at the part of the city named after him and is a religious shrine for Moslems.