Audio GuideGalata Bridge

Crossing the waters of Istanbul’s Golden Horn, the Galata Bridge is more than just a way to get from the old city to the new. Stretching nearly five hundred meters, the bridge brings together the historic heart of Istanbul, Eminönü, with energetic Karaköy, where city life buzzes day and night. Today, the bridge offers walkways for pedestrians, lanes for cars and trams, and, beneath, a lively row of cafés and fish restaurants where the scent of fresh seafood mingles with the salty air.

Michał Rodkiewicz

The story begins over one and a half millennia ago, with the earliest records tracing a bridge to the time of Emperor Justinian in the sixth century. Later, during the conquest of Istanbul in the mid-fifteenth century, Ottoman soldiers built a makeshift bridge out of ships so armies could cross the water. Dreams of a permanent crossing continued—there was even a moment when two of the world’s most famous artists were involved. The Italian genius Leonardo da Vinci once designed a grand single-arch bridge for this spot in the early sixteen hundreds, but his vision never found approval. Michelangelo was also invited to create a plan, yet he turned down the task.

Еаликино Абинореал

It was not until the mid-nineteenth century that the first wooden Galata Bridge took shape, followed by several replacements over the years as the city’s needs grew. Each bridge reflected its time: wooden platforms gave way to floating bridges, and, eventually, to the modern bascule design, which can open its eighty-meter central section to allow ships to glide underneath. By the end of the nineteenth century, the bridge had become an icon, referenced in novels, painted by artists, and celebrated in films.

Ajwad Akashi

Galata Bridge has played a real part in people’s daily lives. Locals crossed for trade, work, and prayer, while street vendors threaded through crowds with simit and roasted chestnuts. Down below, cafés and restaurants invite you to linger with tea and fresh-grilled fish, their tables busy with friends and families. Some say the card game “bridge” got its name here, as British soldiers enjoyed coffee and cards after crossing.

Ali KILIÇ

Tolls were once collected for crossing on foot, horseback, or by carriage, with the last payments ending in the early nineteen thirties. Today, trams rattle across, cars rush by, and pedestrians stroll at all hours. The bridge stands as a powerful symbol—connecting old and new, east and west, tradition and modern culture. Its spirit is ever present: fishermen line the rails, writers and artists draw inspiration, and visitors from around the world become part of Istanbul’s ongoing story, right here where two sides of the city meet.