Where are the seven hills of Istanbul?

Where are the seven hills of Istanbul

While when and by whom was Istanbul founded is still a matter in question, how it was founded is unknown as well.

When talking about Istanbul, first thing that comes to mind is the fact that the city was founded on seven hills. The region, known as historical peninsula, is assumed to be on the seven hills. Throughout the history these seven hills have always been significant centers, and very valuable during the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman times. Such a value which is quite obvious now; because these hills, regarded as the most beautiful spots in the city, are full of historical artifacts. The four of these seven hills being located along the Golden Horn drew strategic attention as well.

Well, where are these seven hills of Istanbul located, then?

 Topkapi Palace and the Neighborhood:

The first hill is considered to be the first center of Istanbul. There used to be Hippodrome and constructions alike in the past, whereas today it is known as Sultanahmet Square. Actually, the reason why this place is called Horse Square from time to time is the ancient Hippodrome. The prevailing places are Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia.

Cemberlitas and the Neighborhood:

The second hill of Istanbul is on the area where Cemberlitas and the Column of Constantinople stand, located on Divan Yolu, which is stretching out from Beyazıt Square to Sultanahmet. In this area there are surviving ancient ruins dating back to Roman times. One of the most magnificent structures from Ottoman times, the Nuruosmaniye Mosque, is here as well.

Suleiman Mosque and the Ativan Neighborhood:

The third hill is now the area within the Istanbul University campus; in other words, the area where Beyazit Tower is located. The most important structure of the area is the Suleiman Mosque, which was built by the architect Sinan. Other historical buildings are Beyazit Mosque and the old building of Istanbul University.

Fatih Mosque and the Neighborhood:

The location of the fourth of Istanbul is the center of Fatih district. Fatih Mosque is the most important historical building within the area.

Sultan Selim Mosque and the Neighborhood:

The side of Fatih district, seeing the Gold Horn, is known as Yavuz Selim. Yavuz Selim is the 5th hill of Istanbul. On the hill, where there used to be Byzantines’ Cistern of Bonos, the most important historical building today is Sultan Selim Mosque.

And the Neighborhood:

Edirnekapı and the Edirnekapı Neighborhood is known as the highest hill of Istanbul. On this hill, which is located on the prevailing spot of Golden Horn, there are significant historical buildings. Sultan Mihrimah Mosque, built by architect Sinan, is one of them. Tekfur Palace and Kariye Museum, built during the Byzantine period, are among the significant tourist attraction of the area.

Altımermer and the Neighborhood (Çukurbostan):

It is the seventh hill of the City on the Seven Hills. It covers the area called Altınmermer and its neighborhood. The area known as Çukurbostan, has become an important settlement. Among the significant historical buildings is the Column of Arcadius.

The main reasons why Istanbul, each part of which has its own beauty, was founded on seven hills could be the opportunity to dominate the surroundings and to be on strategically high centers.