Located in the Eyup district of Fatih on the European side of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, there is a tea house that offers a breathtaking view of the Golden Horn from Eyup to Eminonu. The location boasts a magnificent landscape, and from the top of the hill, visitors can enjoy a dreamy panoramic view.
Additionally, this special hill is home to a large historic graveyard on the south slopes. The graveyard houses the tombs of many famous pashas, sultans, and authors, including Lala Mustafa Pasha, Lala Hüseyin Pasha, Mahmud Aga, Mahmud Celaleddin Efendi, Mehmed Celebi, Mihrisah Valide Sultan, Mirimiran Mehmed Pasha, Nakkas Hasan Pasha, Pertev Mehmed Pasha, Siyavus Pasha, Sokollu Mehmed Pasha, V. Mehmed (Resad), Sah Sultan, Shaykh al-islam, Uryanizade Ahmed Esad Efendi, and Zal Mahmud Pasha. To make it easier for visitors to climb the hill, a funicular (cable car) has also been established for their convenience.
This fascinating funicular starts from the shore of the Golden Horn and takes visitors to the top of the hill, where they can enjoy views of the graveyard, as well as find hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Visitors can also choose to climb the ridge’s stone walkway through the cemetery, starting from the Eyup Sultan Mosque at the bottom/south end of the hill, or drive up from the north side.
The highest point of the hill is about half a kilometer north of the funicular’s station, in a dense residential multi-level area.
The name “Loti” comes from the name of an exotic flower that grows in exotic places. In addition, Pierre Loti was a French author of the famous novel “Aziyade.” It is said that Aziyade was the name of an Ottoman woman with whom Pierre Loti fell in love. Due to his support for the Ottoman Empire, many places have been named after him, such as Pierre Loti Street in Divanyolu, Istanbul, and a cafe in Eyup that is known as the “Pierre Loti Cafe.”
Today, the hill on which the cafe is located is also known as “Pierre Loti Hill.” Visitors can choose from a variety of cafes and restaurants, including “nargile houses” where they can smoke a water pipe while enjoying Turkish tea. With a cup of tea in hand, visitors can lean back and relax while taking in the unique atmosphere of the hill.
Visiting Pierre Loti Hill in Istanbul offers visitors a chance to experience the rich history and culture of the city. The hill’s beautiful landscape, historic graveyard, and funicular ride provide an opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of the Golden Horn and learn about the city’s past.
Additionally, the hill is named after the French author Pierre Loti, who was known for his support of the Ottoman Empire and his novel “Aziyade,” which is said to have been inspired by an Ottoman woman with whom he fell in love. Visitors can also take in the unique atmosphere of the hill by visiting the Pierre Loti Cafe or other local restaurants and cafes.
At the top of the hill, visitors can also find hotels and souvenir shops, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the area and take in the local culture. The hill is easily accessible by funicular, walking or driving.
Tour Maker Turkey offers tours that take you to the Pierre Loti Hill and other amazing historical sites in Istanbul. Contact us today to book your tour and discover the best that Istanbul has to offer.