- On 04/08/2024
- In Tips for travellers Places to visit
- Tags: Istanbul, Istanbul Travel Guide, Istanbul Travel Tips, Sultanahmet, Things to do in Istanbul, Turkey, Turkey Travel
Discovering the German Fountain in Istanbul
Picture this: you’re wandering through the historic heart of Istanbul, and you stumble upon a stunning piece of architecture that looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a fairy tale. Welcome to the German Fountain! Nestled in the bustling Sultanahmet Square, this charming monument is more than just a pretty sight—it’s a slice of history that perfectly captures the spirit of friendship between Germany and the Ottoman Empire.
Why Visit the German Fountain?
So why should one include this German fountain in their itinerary while visiting Istanbul? First, it is a beautiful place located in Sultanahmet Square hence can be squeezed into your day alongside other biggies such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
The German Fountain whose Turkish name is Alman Çeşmesi was given as present by German Emperor Wilhelm II to the Ottoman Sultan in 1900. It was built for commemorating Emperor’s visit to Istanbul. It has an octagonal dome roofed over top which have mosaics and inscriptions that are very beautiful. Secondly, it has got that old-world charm that makes for great Instagram photos!
How to Visit the German Fountain
You can easily visit the German Fountain. Here is how:
- Location: The fountain lies in Sultanahmet Square wedged between Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. You simply can not miss that.
- Getting There: Most probably, you can walk there if your hotel or guesthouse is situated within Sultanahmet area, otherwise the tram service is a good way to reach it. Jump on T1 tram line and get off at the stop of Sultanahmet; then just walk there in a few minutes.
- Best Time to Visit: These times are perfect as they will allow you to avoid being bugged by many people thus attaining some calmness in yourself through early morning or late afternoon welllit images for instance.
- No Entry Fee: Yes sire! So, you don’t have to pay anything at all to go see the German Fountain. Just saunter over and take in its history and beauty.
Most Recommended Istanbul Tours
Tips for a Great Visit
- Take Your Time: Don’t take a quick shot and leave – take time to examine carefully the intricate mosaics along with inscriptions which narrate about relations between Germany and Ottoman Empire.
- Stay Hydrated: Ironically enough, water from this fountain is undrinkable but serves as a reminder that one should keep hydrated while touring Istanbul especially during summer months.
- Combine with Nearby Attractions: Stay around Sultanahmet for an entire day. Thus, when it comes about some of Istanbul’s most famous sites, German Fountain is just next door.
Fun Fact
Here is a fun little tidbit of history for you: The German Fountain was actually built in Germany, then disassembled into several pieces and reassembled on site in Istanbul. Talk about a game of jigsaw!
So there you have it! German Fountain is an attractive landmark steeped in history that should not be missed by anyone visiting Istanbul. It’s easily accessible, free to enter, and surrounded by some of the most popular tourist attractions within the city. Moreover, this is where people come to absorb the rich past of this beautiful town.
What are your experiences with the German Fountain? Share them below! And if you’re preparing for your visit, I hope this post will help you make the most of your time there.
Happy travels!