The Turkey Diaries: Galata Tower

During our stay in Istanbul, our hostel was only a few blocks away from Galata Tower which is one of the most prominent landmarks in the Istanbul skyline. From a distance it seems so much taller than its 200+ foot structure, mainly because the ground it was built on is already elevated 115 feet above sea-level, which lends to an incredible view of the city and the Bosphorus.

Galata Tower went through many changes and renovations throughout the years, having first being built in 1348. It was used for spotting fires, firing rockets, and now the tower is home to a restaurant, cafe, and night club. I was tempted to drag Jeremy out to the night club (because how cool would it be to bust a move in a 600+ year old building?) but then I realized it was way out of our budget.

This is the first time I actually tried to get quality, night photography shots (something I resolved to work on in 2013) and I love the way they turned out. I didn't have a tripod on hand so I trusted in my steady hands and the railing at the top of the tower. But seriously guys, check out them views. Istanbul, you take my breath away.