Rumeli Fortress: Where Fatih Took His First Step Towards Istanbul

Fatih’s first step into Istanbul begins right here… Rumeli Fortress, located in the Sarıyer district of Istanbul on the European side of the Bosphorus, was built in 1452 by Sultan Mehmed II to block aid coming from the Black Sea before the conquest of Constantinople. Today, serving as a museum, this magnificent structure offers visitors both a historical and visual feast with its towers, walls, and stunning Bosphorus view.

The fortress was constructed in only 4 months to cut off the Bosphorus passage controlled by Byzantium. Consisting of three large towers, together with Anadolu Fortress, it played a strategic role during the siege of the city. After the conquest, Rumeli Fortress lost its military function and was used for various purposes over the centuries. In the 1950s, it was restored and turned into an open-air museum. Its amphitheater occasionally hosts cultural events.

Viofun’s Recommendation
Climb the Zağanos Pasha Tower and look across to the Asian shore from the narrowest point of the Bosphorus. That view tells not only of the water but also of the strategy that changed the fate of an era. After your visit, enjoy a walk towards Bebek, where history and Bosphorus breeze meet.

⚠ Important Information:
The museum ticket purchased via Viofun is valid only on the selected date and cannot be used on another date. The QR code of your ticket will be sent within 12 hours at the latest, depending on system approval. Please consider this when booking.
This ticket is valid only for foreign visitors. Turkish citizens are not eligible; they must obtain a Museum Card (Müzekart).