About This Resource
Istanbul, historically known as Constantinople, is built on seven hills and features an extensive network of historic staircases. The city's topography necessitated countless stairs connecting neighborhoods at different elevations. Notable stairway areas include the steep streets of Galata leading to Galata Tower, the historic staircases in the Balat and Fener neighborhoods along the Golden Horn, and the stairs around Süleymaniye Mosque. Many of Istanbul's stairs date back centuries and are integral to the city's character. The stairs provide both practical transportation and atmospheric walks through neighborhoods filled with Ottoman-era wooden houses and Byzantine walls.
