According to official records, the Maiden’s Tower was first constructed in the 5th century BC by an Athenian commander. Originally, the tower served as a lookout to monitor ships passing through the Bosphorus and to collect taxes. After Istanbul came under Byzantine rule, it was reinforced for defensive purposes.
Over the centuries, the tower has undergone multiple restorations and gained its current appearance during the reign of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror. During the Ottoman era, it became a symbol of celebration with cannon salutes on special occasions such as holidays and coronations. It was also used as a lighthouse during the time of Grand Vizier Damat İbrahim Pasha.
One of the most remarkable uses of the tower was as a quarantine and hospital during epidemics. During the plague that claimed 20,000–30,000 lives, patients were isolated in the tower to prevent the disease from spreading further.
Since the 2000s, the Maiden’s Tower has become one of Istanbul’s most iconic tourist landmarks and is recognized worldwide.
