Eyup Sultan Surroundings: Historic Sites Waiting to Be Discovered

While Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Tomb are the best-known places of the district, there are dozens of historical sites around Eyüpsultan waiting to be discovered. In this article, we introduce the nearby historic places that will enrich your Eyüp Sultan visit.

Pierre Loti Hill and Cable Car

Eyüpsultan's most famous viewpoint, Pierre Loti Hill, bears the name of the French writer Pierre Loti. In the 19th century, Loti, who was captivated by Istanbul, would sit at the coffeehouse on this hill and write his works while watching the Golden Horn view.

You can reach the hill by cable car or walk the uphill road through the cemeteries. From the hill, the entire Golden Horn, Suleymaniye Mosque, Galata Tower, and Istanbul's silhouette can be seen. The view becomes an unforgettable beauty especially at sunset.

Zal Mahmud Pasha Mosque

Attributed to Mimar Sinan, Zal Mahmud Pasha Mosque is located near Eyüp Sultan, on the Golden Horn shore. Built in 1577, the mosque is one of Mimar Sinan's mature-period works.

The mosque's most striking feature is its interior decorated with Iznik tiles. Tiles in blue, white, and red tones form some of the finest examples of Ottoman tile art. Being a relatively lesser-known Sinan work, the mosque offers a calm and peaceful visiting experience.

Sokollu Mehmed Pasha Complex

The complex of Suleiman the Magnificent's grand vizier Sokollu Mehmed Pasha in Eyüpsultan is a group of structures comprising a madrasah, tomb, and fountain. The complex presents an elegant example of Ottoman architectural tradition.

The madrasah's courtyard is an ideal place for a quiet rest. In the shade of the plane trees in the courtyard, it is possible to feel the silent testimony of history.

Historic Fountains

Walking through the streets of Eyüpsultan, you will encounter dozens of Ottoman-era fountains. These fountains are among the finest examples of the Ottoman water endowment tradition.

Ahmed III Fountain, Mihrisah Valide Sultan Fountain, and Hatice Turhan Sultan Fountain are among the area's most important fountains. The inscriptions on the fountains reflect the intricacies of the era's calligraphic art.

Feshane

Located on the Golden Horn shore, Feshane was used as a military fez production factory during the Ottoman period. Today it serves as a culture and art center, hosting exhibitions, concerts, and events.

The historic building is an important example of Ottoman industrial architecture. Its Golden Horn-view location makes it one of Istanbul's most atmospheric venues.

Eyüpsultan Toy Museum

An ideal stop for families with children, the Eyüpsultan Toy Museum houses hundreds of historical toys. The museum traces the children's culture from the Ottoman era to the Republic.

Historic Streets and Wooden Houses

Walking through the narrow streets of Eyüpsultan is like traveling through time. Wooden houses from the Ottoman period, bay windows, and cobblestone streets form the authentic texture of the area.

Especially the neighborhoods of Nisanca, Dugmeciler, and Cezri Kasim offer the best-preserved examples of traditional Ottoman civil architecture.

Don't limit your Eyüp Sultan visit to just the mosque and tomb. Discover the surrounding historic places to fully experience Eyüpsultan's rich cultural heritage. A half-day Eyüpsultan tour will be one of Istanbul's most rewarding historical excursions.