Ortakoy: The Jewel of the Bosphorus

29-07-2024

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On the European side of the Bosphorus in Istanbul lies Ortakoy, stretching across part of the Besiktas district.

Despite its small size, the area is a true gem of the strait, known for its vibrant atmosphere, cultural diversity, and beautiful natural scenery.

The name Ortakoy means "middle village" in Turkish. This article introduces you to Ortakoy, the lively pearl of the Bosphorus Strait.

Where is Ortakoy Located?

Ortakoy is located on the European side of Istanbul and is a neighborhood under the municipality of Besiktas. It has a direct view of the Bosphorus, near the first bridge connecting the two sides of the vast city, the July 15 Martyrs Bridge.

To the north, it is bordered by the rest of the Besiktas district, to the south by the Bebek neighborhood, to the west by the Levent neighborhood, and to the east by the Bosphorus Strait.

The area boasts a prime location close to most of Istanbul's attractive areas. Here are some key spots:

Taksim Square:

About 5 km from Ortakoy, a 15-minute drive depending on traffic.

Fatih District:

About 10 km away, a 25-minute drive on average.

Besiktas District:

Only 3 km away, a 10-minute drive.

Sultanahmet District:

Approximately 8 km away, a 20-minute drive.

Kadikoy on the Asian side:

12 km away via the Bosphorus Bridge, accessible by boat or car.

Uskudar on the Asian side:

About 8 km away via the Bosphorus Bridge.

1. Take the Tram T1: • Start from the Eminönü tram station. • Take the T1 tram towards Kabataş. • Get off at the Kabataş station, which is the final stop on this line. 2. Take the Bus: • From Kabataş, walk to the nearby bus stops. • Take bus number 22, 25E, 22RE, or 43R, which are heading towards Ortaköy. • Get off at the Ortaköy stop.

1. First Step: Metro Line M2 • Start from Taksim station on the M2 metro line (the green line). • Head towards Gayrettepe station. 2. Second Step: Bus • Upon arriving at Gayrettepe station, exit the metro and transfer to the bus station. • Take bus number 40T or 42T heading towards Ortaköy. 3. Arriving at Ortaköy • The bus will reach Ortaköy after several stops. Get off at the Ortaköy station.

History of Ortakoy

The area was part of a small settlement in the Byzantine era known as "Arkatoy." Here are the stages of this historic place:

Byzantine Era:

Byzantine people inhabited Ortakoy which was part of the countryside surrounding Constantinople (now Istanbul).

Ottoman Era:

The area went through several phases during this period. In the 16th century, it flourished and became a culturally and religiously diverse area where Muslims, Jews, and Christians lived together.

This explains the presence of a mosque, a church, and a synagogue side by side. In the 19th century, many significant religious landmarks were built, including the Ortakoy Mosque (Great Mecidiye Mosque) by Sultan Abdulmecid I.

The area also features many historical buildings and luxurious palaces along the Bosphorus. By the late Ottoman era, Ortakoy became a residential area favored by the Ottoman and foreign elites, adding grandeur to its character.

Modern Era:

With the establishment of the Turkish Republic in the 20th century, Ortakoy continued to develop as a prosperous residential and commercial area.

It became administratively part of the Besiktas district, one of Istanbul's main areas.

Modern infrastructure and facilities developments have made it one of the most attractive tourist areas, thanks to its charming location on the Bosphorus, cultural diversity, and historical landmarks.

Best Tourist Attractions in Ortakoy, Istanbul

Ortakoy offers a variety of tourist activities, from visiting mosques and local markets to enjoying restaurants and cafes with views of the strait. Here are some must-visit spots in Ortakoy:

Ortakoy Mosque

Also known as the Great Mecidiye Mosque, it is one of the most beautiful mosques in Istanbul with its Ottoman architectural design and unique location on the Bosphorus. It is one of the most photographed mosques in Istanbul due to its location and beautiful views, especially with its lights reflecting on the Bosphorus at night.

Bosphorus Bridge

The July 15 Martyrs Bridge connects the European and Asian continents and offers stunning views of the vast waterway.

Ortakoy Bazaar

A market for antiques and unique souvenirs. This popular market has many stalls selling handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and other authentic local items. The bazaar is lively with vibrant colors and quality products that attract both locals and tourists.

Ortakoy Hammam

A traditional Turkish bath was built by the famous architect Sinan Pasha in the 16th century.

Ortakoy Square

The main square of this beautiful neighborhood is close to the Bosphorus shore. It is a meeting point for walking enthusiasts from nearby areas and tourists who want to experience the city's spirit through its bustling parts.

The square is notable for its proximity to tourist attractions and many cafes and restaurants, allowing visitors to spend a whole day here without boredom.

Ortakoy Business Hotel

This elegant hotel in the heart of the area offers luxurious services, including comfortable rooms, modern facilities, and upscale restaurants. Its central location provides easy access to Ortakoy's tourist attractions and other parts of Istanbul.

Kumpir Sokak in Ortakoy

One of Ortakoy's highlights is the famous Potato Street, with food stalls offering stuffed potatoes (Kumpir), a popular local dish in Turkey and beyond.

Large potatoes are baked until soft inside and crisp outside, then opened and mashed with butter and cheese, followed by filling with various ingredients like Mediterranean salads, olives, corn, sausages, pickles, chicken or meat, and red and green peppers.

The street is lively and a favorite spot for locals and tourists for a quick, delicious, and unique meal.