Yedikule and City Walls, a historic gem in Istanbul, boasts the majestic City Walls. These ancient fortifications, built in the 5th century, tell tales of time and resilience. Yedikule’s grandeur is a testament to the city’s rich history and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. As you stroll through the picturesque park surrounding Yedikule, you’ll be transported back in time, feeling the weight of centuries on your shoulders. The City Walls stand strong, offering a glimpse into the past, connecting us to a bygone era.

Yedikule Hisarı (Fortress of the Seven Towers), looming over the old city’s southern approaches, has a history as impressive as its massive structure.

In the late 4th century Theodosius I built a triumphal arch here. When the next Theodosius (r 408–50) built his great land walls, he incorporated the arch into it. Four of the fortress’ seven towers were built as part of Theodosius II’s walls; the other three, which are inside the walls, were added by Mehmet the Conqueror. Under the Byzantines, the great arch became known as the Golden Gate and was used for triumphal state processions into and out of the city. For a time, its gates were indeed plated with gold.

In Ottoman times the fortress was used for defence, and as a repository for the imperial treasury, a prison and a place of execution. After the Republic, Yedikule was neglected, becoming an overgrown green oasis, complete with goat herd. Recent renovations have disappointingly replaced the leafy greenery with acres of gravel. Still, the views from the battlements are the highlight of any visit.

It’s possible to spend a day walking on top of or beside the walls all the way from Yedikule to Ayvansaray on the Golden Horn (6.5km), wandering past the late-13th-century Tekfur Sarayı (Palace of the Sovereign, Palace of Constantine Porphyrogenitus) on the way. Be warned, though, that the walls are in a bad condition in many spots and go through some less-than -salubrious neighbourhoods. Don’t consider doing this walk by yourself.

Yedikule and City Walls is a long way from most other İstanbul sights and involves a special trip. Situated where the great city walls meet the Sea of Marmara, it’s easily accessible by train from Sirkeci or Cankurtaran (the closest stop to Sultanahmet). Hop off the train at Yedikule (15 minutes), turn left as you come out of the station and walk about 500m to the entrance of the fortress.

You can also take bus 80 from Eminönü (these run approximately every 40 minutes) or bus 80T from Taksim (approximately every 25 minutes). The bus stop is across from the small park in front of the castle.