Beyazit Tower in Istanbul: history, signals, and how to visit

In the heart of Istanbul, not far from bustling streets and age-old markets, a tall tower rises above the city. At first glance, it looks like just another relic. It isn’t. This is the Beyazit Tower, and behind its austere profile lies an almost three-century story.

Where it all began

The tower was first built in 1749. Back then it was wooden and served a vital purpose: spotting fires. Istanbul suffered frequent blazes at the time—wooden houses and narrow lanes let flames race through neighborhoods. The tower helped detect smoke early and warn residents.

Wood, of course, was a fragile choice. The tower was destroyed more than once—first by a fire in 1756, then during the Janissary revolt in 1826. Finally, in 1828, a new stone structure rose on the orders of Sultan Mahmud II, designed by architect Senekerim Balyan. That is the building we see today.

What the tower looks like

Beyazit Tower stands 85 meters tall. It is circular, built in three main tiers. Inside, a spiral staircase climbs to the top, where a room encircled by windows once offered a sweeping view for watch duty.

In earlier days, guards kept vigil for any hint of smoke. When they spotted a fire, they sent signals—by day with special baskets, by night with lanterns—so other districts could grasp what was happening and where.

A new role: telling the weather

Technology moved on, and the tower’s firefighting role faded. In 1995, it found a new, practical purpose: it now displays the weather forecast through colored lights.

The code is straightforward: blue means clear skies, green signals rain, yellow stands for fog, and red warns of snow. The tower works like a beacon—only for city dwellers rather than ships—and the simplicity is part of its appeal.

Can you go inside?

The tower stands within the grounds of Istanbul University, so entry isn’t open to the public. Still, it’s possible to try arranging a tour through the university; its official website includes a page describing the tower and visiting terms. Not the most spontaneous outing, but fitting for a place that rewards a little patience.

Today, Beyazit Tower is more than an old structure—it is a city symbol. Once it helped fight flames; now it hints at whether to bring an umbrella. It’s a reminder that even unassuming buildings can evolve with the city and the times without losing their purpose.