Conical Roof and Exterior Façade

Capture the perfect Istanbul skyline photo with Galata Tower’s signature conical roof and medieval stone exterior.

Brief History: The original conical cap was destroyed by storms in the 19th century and restored multiple times, most recently during the 1967 restoration. Notable Features: The roof is made of lightweight materials and shaped in a steep cone, giving the tower its fairytale appearance. The exterior stonework below features medieval Romanesque architecture with narrow windows, strong verticality, and alternating rows of limestone and brick. Fun Fact: The sharp tip of the conical roof has become an iconic silhouette of the Beyoğlu skyline and appears in countless postcards and films. Current Use: Although not accessible to climb, the conical roof is best admired from the streets below or from neighboring rooftops. It’s especially stunning when illuminated at night.