7 of Istanbul's Fascinating Fountains

Istanbul is not only renowned for its minarets, mosques, bazaars, and kebabs, but also for its stunning fountains, each striving to outdo the others with their grandeur, beauty, and historical significance. Scattered throughout the city, these iconic waterworks tell the stories of Ottoman architecture and style, while also commemorating the memories of imperial gifts. From the beauty of the German Fountain to the lavishness of the Tophane Fountain, without wasting any time, let’s explore the top Istanbul fountains.

In the year 1728 of the Ottoman era, Sultan Ahmet III ordered the building of this fountain in the area of the Uskudar District. The enchanting design with a unique polygonal shape and flower patterns makes this fountain stand out the most. It features poetry of famous and well-respected poets like Nedim, Rahmi, and Shakir. This fountain was dedicated to the sultan’s mother and was initially placed close to the Bosphorus, and later it was moved to Iskele Square, where it still resides, attracting many admirers, hence making it one of the top Istanbul tourist attractions.

Also famous as Alman Çeşmesi among locals, the German Fountain was built in Germany to welcome the Emperor Wilhelm II to the city, and was later delivered to Istanbul in the 1900s, where it still stands, flaunting its beauty. The fountain has a gazebo-shaped design further decorated by a mosaic made of gold and eight marble pillars that support the fountain structure.

The Ahmet Sebil Fountain, considered the most beautiful fountain in Istanbul, is located in Sultanahmet, right in front of the Topkapi Palace. Built in 1728, it was named after the Ottoman Sultan who ordered its construction. The fountain features hand-painted vases, a decorative under-roof, and a traditional Islamic architectural design known as Muqarnas. This unique design highlights Istanbul's increasing Western influence following years of Ottoman rule.

The Ablution Fountain, also popularly known as the Hagia Sophia Fountain, is a perfect example of authentic Ottoman architecture and is situated close to the famous tourist attraction, Hagia Sophia. It is one of the biggest and most beautiful fountains in Istanbul, and was constructed by Sultan Mahmud I. With 16 concise and detailed carved parts and bronze taps in the middle, it is used for “Wadhu,” a Muslim washing before the 5 obligatory prayers. This fountain holds a beautiful bronze banner bearing the inspirational words, "We have created everything from water," which hangs above the taps, while its dome, held up by eight graceful marble columns. This entire building exudes grandeur and spiritual meaning, and is one of the must-see places to visit in Istanbul, regardless of your interests in history, architecture, or just seeing the city.

Built by Esma Sultan, the daughter of Sultan Ahmet 3, in 1781, this fountain found its place on an open-air terrace, also commonly known as a Namazgah. Although the design and structure are not as lavish as other famous city fountains, it is still an exciting watch if paired with a quick trip to the Photograph Museum of Istanbul.

Built to honor Hurrem Sultan, the most influential wife of Suleiman Shah, this beautiful fountain stands at a prime location between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Though it is modest in size, the popularity of Hurrem Sultan and its elegant design still attracts many tourists, paying tribute to one of the most powerful women of the Ottoman Empire.

The Tophane Mahmud II fountain is a historical masterpiece that towers over Beyoglu. Constructed in 1732 at Sultan Mahmud II's request, it is more than just a fountain; it's an elegant transition from classic to modern architecture. The fountain was subjected to overtime decay but was revived in 2006, regaining its original beauty. Its eaves, which were lost to time, and the detailed etchings on its walls shine brightly now, becoming the standing example of the time power and art coexisted.

More Popular Fountains in Istanbul Worth Checking Out

• Bereketzade: If you are close to Galata Tower, which is very likely, don’t forget to check out the Bereketzade Fountain, an 18th-century Ottoman structure with a beautiful history and backstory, which can be read at a signpost near the fountain. The fountain was damaged multiple times for 200 years, and after many reconstructions, it was placed in its current location.

• Saliha Sultan: A Fountain with a backstory! Saliha Sultan was a powerful woman in the Ottoman Empire. As a young girl, she broke her water jug near a fountain, a small event which led her to be noticed by the Valid Sultan of the time, and being brought into the imperial harem. Rising through the ranks, she married Sultan Mustafa II and became Valide Sultan herself. To honor her humble beginning and to provide a valuable resource of water to the community, she ordered to building of the Saliha Sultan Fountain in 1732. With its beautiful story and magnificent architecture, it’s a well-loved attraction in Istanbul.

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