Maiden's Tower - Free Audio Guide

Kız Kulesi, known as the Maiden’s Tower, occupies a small islet at the southern entrance to the Bosphorus near Üsküdar in Istanbul. Its origins extend to antiquity and the structure has been rebuilt repeatedly during Byzantine and Ottoman eras, fulfilling roles as a watchtower, lighthouse, quarantine and customs station; more recent uses have included exhibition and dining functions. The tower is an enduring cultural emblem of Istanbul, embedded in local folklore and artistic imagery and linked to the city’s maritime heritage. Highlights include the historic architecture and profile, sweeping Bosphorus vistas, interpretive material and hospitality areas. The site is open to visitors under organised visiting hours with an admission charge; timings and fees vary. Arrival depends on a short boat crossing and access can involve steps and restricted mobility options due to the islet setting.