Galata Köprüsü
Istanbul
Galata Köprüsü is the bridge over the Golden Horn between Eminönü and Karaköy. It has two levels: on top cars, trams and pedestrians, below a walkway close to the water.
Five bridges in the same spot
For centuries the only way between the two shores was by boat. In 1845 the court of Sultan Abdülmecid had the first bridge built at this spot. It was called Cisr-i Cedid.
Others followed, each bigger than the last. Today's bridge is the fifth, and it dates from 1994.
A bridge that opens
The central part of the bridge can be raised. It is one of the few opening bridges in the world with a tram running across it.
What to see from the pavement
Look towards the water: white ferries, boats and seagulls. Behind you, you can see the domes of the mosques on the hill.
On the opposite shore, the hill of Karaköy climbs towards Beyoğlu, full of houses and roofs. At sunset the water turns to gold.
Everyone's bridge
Locals cross the bridge every day, on foot or by tram. They stop to look at the water and have a quick chat. For more than a hundred years the Galata Bridge has been the city's meeting point.
