ISTANBUL, Extended On Two Continents: January 2017

Thursday, January 26, 2017

SCHNEIDERTEMPEL ART GALLERY

Karaköy, Beyoğlu - İstanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°01'26.9"N 28°58'26.2"E / 41.024139, 28.973944

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The Schneidertempel Art Center, situated in Galata, centrally located in one of Istanbul's oldest districts, aims to function as a bridge between the city's historical heritage and the contemporary art scene.

The Schneidertempel was established in Galata in the 19th century as one of several synagogues founded by the Ashkenazi community. With the approach of the 21st century, it has gained a new function as an art center under the auspices of the Galata Ashkenazi Cultural Association. Through this, an important part of historic Istanbul has been restored to life; a cultural tie has been able to reinvent itself in the face of inevitable change.

The Schneidertempel Art Center program will emphasize contemporary art. The Schneidertempel encompasses a historical significance both to Galata in particular and to Istanbul as a whole. It is hoped that the Schneidertempel, connecting its own relevance within its historical context to that of contemporary art, will open its doors to further forms of participation in the future.

The Schneidertempel was one among three synagogues established by the Ashkenazis in Galata. Known as "Beth ha Kenesseth Tofre Begadim," it was built by the Ashkenazi Tailors' Association in 1894 and called the "Tailors' Synagogue." Situated at the top of the Kamondo stairs above Bankalar Caddesi (the old Voyvoda Caddesi) between Banker Sokağı (formerly Kamondo Sokağı) and Felek Sokağı, the Schneidertempel served as a synagogue until the 1960s.

The building has entrances on both streets, the main one being on Felek Sokağı. In spite of being built on a less-than-adequate parcel of land, the Schneidertempel skillfully exemplifies Ashkenazi synagogue architecture. Facing two streets, the Schneidertempel is a typical example of 19th century eclectic architecture. The synagogue's main entrance on Felek Sokağı, with its adornments, offers the more impressive and engaging sight.

The name "Schneidertempel" is a German word for "tailor temple". The art gallery, formerly a synagogue established by the Ashkenazi Tailor Jews Association in 1894, is where the name comes from. The temple, one of the three synagogues in Galata district, served as a desolte depot before it became an art gallery.

In ancient Greek, ’syn’ means ’together’ and ’ago’ means ’to gather’. So ’synagogue’ is a place where ’people gathering in a place’. The synagogue was built by the tailors who migrated from Russia and East Europe, especially specialized on designing vests.

The temple, whose construction began with the approval of Sultan Abdülhamit II, wanting to reward the palace tailor, opened its doors for tailors to carry out the tenets of their faith. Besides the budget allocated by the palace, the tailors also accumulated resources amongst themselves.

After hosting the Jews for more than 60 years, Schneidertempel was left to its destiny by the same people who established the synagogue because they opened new temples and started using the tailor’s temple as a depot. Until the Jewish community thought they can turn the place into an art center.

Even though the synagogue is located in the middle of two apartment buildings, it is not different than the others. With its front construction and the raised ground floor, Schneidertempel has a simplistic interior design. There is a mosaic close to the ceiling, the Star of David, also known as the star of the Jews, made out of mosaics.

After a while the prayers stopped echoing in the temple with the changing preferences of profession among the community. For a while it was used as a headquarter for the Ashkenazi Tailor Jews Association.

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

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TAKSİM CUMHURIYET ART GALLERY / MAKSEM

Taksim, Beyoğlu - İstanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°02'11.5"N 28°59'03.8"E / 41.036528, 28.984389

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TAKSİM CUMHURIYET ART GALLERY / MAKSEM

Istanbul is ready to enjoy the presence of yet another art gallery and exhibition center. Maksem - a building specially constructed a few centuries back to meet the district’s need for water - had been left to sit idly in a dilapidated state until the İstanbul Metropolitan Municipality took the matter in hand and transformed it into a new international exhibition center: the Taksim Cumhuriyet Art Gallery.

After the renovation it has been using for social purposes. The cistern is now used for temporary exhibitions while the taksim has been turned into an information centre. The old water reservoir in the center of Taksim Square, which used to supply water to Istanbul’s oldest settlements of Pera and Taksim, has been transformed into an art gallery.

The new place will bring together the adherents of both classical and modern art and be home to unique works of art for Istanbulites to visit. The name of this most hectic and lively quarter of Istanbul, Taksim, actually comes from Maksem.

SU DEPOSU - MAKSEM

Taksim Cistern (Maksem is the first major building in Taksim Square and it was built to meet the water needs of Beyoğlu in the 18th century. According to its inscription, the first part of the Taksim water supply network was completed c.1733. In the years 1797 and 1798, the quantity of water, brought to Maksem (cistern) and distributed to the city, increased through the contributions of Mihrişah Sultan.

The Taksim water supply network, providing water also for Taksim, was constructed in four stages between 1731 and 1839. The verse from Qur'an reading, ‘We have created everything out of water’ is written on the fountain at the square facing side of the two storey octagonal maksem.

The reservoir, know as "Maksem," was what gave Taksim its name. During the Ottoman Empire, water was carried by pipe to maksems located throughout the city. The water, upon reaching the European side of Istanbul in the 18th century, was stored in the large stone reservoirs before it was distributed. Taksim means distribution or division, which in this case describes the water distribution. It was built in 1732 by the order of Sultan Mahmut I.

The western side of the square is the most historically interesting. The stone wall that runs along the back was once a giant cistern (maksem) where water brought into the city from the Belgrade Forest was stored ready for distribution via the little stone taksim (water distribution point, 1723) at the top of İstiklal Caddesi.

The building was originally built in 1732 upon orders from Sultan Mahmud I to provide tap water to the city’s Pera district and its surrounding neighborhoods by distributing the water gathered in the Maksem water depot. Although it gave the famous quarter its name (“Taksim” comes from taksim etmek - to share out), it was disused for almost a century as it ceased to fulfill any function and was restored upon the instructions of Mayor of Istanbul after the project suffered a series of setbacks stemming from the local electricity and infrastructure.

This wonderful Ottoman heritage once carried life into the homes of hundreds of thousands, but this time it will be another site on the city’s string of art sites and carry culture into one of the main arteries of the Turkish cultural scene.

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

WEB SITE : Taksim Cumhuriyet Sanat Galerisi

MORE INFO & CONTACT
Tel : +90 212 245 7832

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DENİZ PALAS

Şişhane, Beyoğlu - İstanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°01'42.0"N 28°58'18.9"E / 41.028333, 28.971917

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It was designed in the 1920s by Yorgo Kulutros and is embellished with Art Nouveau features. UNTIL only recently, the 90-year-old Deniz Palas in Istanbul’s Şişhane neighborhood was a perfect symbol of the city’s faded glory. Originally a grand apartment building that catered to the area’s once large Greek-speaking community, the edifice - and the surrounding neighborhood - slowly slid into a state of decay over the decades, as political and economic turbulence drove the area’s original residents away.

Now, though, the building symbolizes nothing less than the city’s cultural resurgence. It was built in Art Nouveau style by architect Georges Coulouthros at the beginning of the 20th century.

IKSV - NEJAT ECZACIBAŞI BİNASI

2009 marked a turning point in İKSV’s history as the headquarters moved to Deniz Palas, in Şişhane. Titled Nejat Eczacıbaşı Building as of 2011. Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV) moved to historical building in Şişhane, Deniz Palas. Deniz Palas now houses İKSV, which has been enriching the cultural and artistic life of İstanbul with festivals, events and leading organizations for several years.

Deniz Palas Apartment, spanned in seven floors at an are of 4200 sq.mt. is a meeting place for art lovers, in addition to the offices of the foundation as well as a cafe, a restaurant, the performance venue Salon and İKSV Design Store.

The IKSV Design Shop, displaying very special gifts and Peralı Café are located on the main floor. "Salon", the new performance center, is located at the entrance and the first floors and is designed to host classical, jazz, rock, alternative and world music concerts, theater and dance performances, activities for children, panels and conferences. It has a capacity of 250 people seated and 600 standing.

The fifth floor of Deniz Palas is going to host a museum dedicated to famous soprano Leyla Gencer, as of March 2010. Deniz Palas Restoran sited on the top floor and the terrace offers one of the most stunning views in Istanbul.

X Restaurant & Bar
X Restaurant & Bar is located on the top floor of the historical Deniz Palace. X restaurant & Bar is a pioneer with its unique style and atmosphere. Designed with acute attention to detail, the interiors showcase extraordinary architectural flair combined with formal and textural touches and acute and wide angles. The design reflects the contours and energy of Istanbul itself, with ceramics crafted by the İznik Education Institute, asymmetric tables and a triangular bar, as well as plates designed by İKSV Director General Görgün Taner and glasses selected from the Paşabahçe Special Series.

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

WEB SITE : İKSV - Nejat Eczacıbaşı Binası

MORE INFO & CONTACT
E-Mail : info@iksv.org
Phone : +90 212 334 0700
Fax : +90 212 334 0701

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Wednesday, January 25, 2017

FRANSIZ KÜLTÜR MERKEZİ

Taksim, Beyoğlu, İstanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°02'10.3"N 28°59'02.1"E / 41.036194, 28.983917

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The place is said to have been a French property since the 18th century: a shaks was once a hospice for seamen in transit through Constantinople. At the end of the 19th century, this refuge became a vast hospital which, thanks to the quality of its equipment and its building, was a model hospital. The French hospital and the Consulate General were closed after the implementation of the Republic of Turkey. Later on, the Institut Français was set up in the same place.

French Cultural Center (also known as Institut Français) aims to promote French culture by offering French language classes and acting as a resource for modern France. The educational and cultural events and activities of the center include performances (such as dance and theatre), film screenings, and participation at various festivals. The center’s library provides over 23,000 books, magazines, CD and DVDs, and newspapers in French.

The Institute Français of Istanbul depends on the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is part of a network of about a hundred of Instituts Français around the world. The Institute has many aims in numerous fields; teaching of the French language, educational and academic cooperation, information and documentation about France nowadays thanks to resource centres and media libraries, cooperation and culture and arts of any kind: theatre, dance, sciences, techniques, books and written works, visual arts, films, media etc. This diversity does not imply any dissipation of the efforts of the Institute.

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

WEB SITE : Istanbul Fransız Kültür Merkezi

MORE INFO & CONTACT
E-Mail : contact.istanbul@ifturquie.org
Phone : +90 212393 8111

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CEMİL TOPUZLU OPEN-AIR THEATRE

Harbiye, Şişli - İstanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°02'45.8"N 28°59'24.5"E / 41.046056, 28.990139

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The Cemil Topuzlu Open-Air Theatre (Turkish: Cemil Topuzlu Harbiye Açık Hava Tiyatrosu, also called simply Açık Hava Tiyatrosu) is a contemporary amphitheatre located in the Harbiye neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated across from the Lütfi Kırdar Congress Center and Exhibition Hall, and behind the Istanbul Hilton Hotel on the European side of the city.

As the city's most popular summertime venue, the theatre primarily hosts music concerts in various genres of local and international performers. It also hosts cultural activities for several festivals held in Istanbul in the summer.

For a summer’s night out to remember, head to the Cemil Topuzlu Open Air Theatre, a modern take on an ancient style amphitheatre. This stunning venue with tiered seating hosts a wide variety of musical and cultural performances during the warmer months. The Cemil Topuzlu Theatre is the only open air theatre in Istanbul.

Its construction was begun in 1946 and completed in 1947. Named after Cemil Topuzlu Pasha (1866-1958), the legendary mayor of İstanbul in the era of Ottoman Second Constitutional Monarchy, it is the biggest open-air theatre in Istanbul with a 3,975 seat capacity. It holds 4,500 people in total in a style reminiscent of classical theatres. It has taken place in settlement plan prepared by urban expert M. Prost for İstanbul in 1930s. Theatre’s plan has been made by Nihad Yücel and Nahid Uysal.

Its ground has been broken in July 1946 during Lütfü Kırdar was governor and major of İstanbul. For facing, color harmony was achieved by mixing sandstone and Uzunköprü stone. Pavement was made with Uzunköprü stone. Although the opening ceremony was made on 9th day of August 1947, it had its recent form, after making changes appropriate to Carl Ebert’s stage technique, who is one of the directors from Ankara State Conservatiore. All its imperfections could have been completed in 1950.

First performance at the open air theatre was a tragedy named King Oidipus, by Sofokles, which was performed by Ankara State Theatre artisans. In 1958, name of Cemil Topuzlu has been given to the theatre, who was one of the former majors of İstabul.

At the open air theatre, seats for audiences or gradiens rose up, in the form of semicircle stairways facing to a plane stage as well as at amphitheatres. There are 30 - person capacity honor lodge, 3,975 - seated audience place, 80 - person capacity orchestra place and in the centre of gradens, a place for projection used when a movie or dia is presented. Stage is as wide as 200 or 300 walkerons can move freely on it. Entrances and gates were designed to allow a sudden evacuation.

There is parking available at the nearby Hilton Istanbul (capacity 500 vehicles), or the parking lot behind the Hilton Convention Center (capacity 150 vehicles). There is also a private parking lot under the Cemal Resit Rey Concert Hall.

As the most popular summer venue, the amphitheatre hosts in first place music concerts in various genres of local and international performers. It houses also cultural activities of several festivals held in the summer time in Istanbul.

In its history the theatre has hosted world famous artists such as Miles Davis, Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, Morrissey, Lou Reed, Joan Baez, Keith Jarrett, Iron Maiden, Björk, Massive Attack, Nick Cave, Tori Amos, Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, Diana Krall, Marcus Miller, Chick Corea, Grace Jones, Bryan Ferry, Loreena McKennitt, Simply Red, Jane Birkin, Ornette Coleman, Stanley Clarke, Joshua Redman, Patti Smith, Suzanne Vega, Buena Vista Social Club, Deep Forest, PJ Harvey, Michael Bolton, Bryan Adams, Anathema, Jethro Tull, Pink Martini, Caetano Veloso, Herbie Hancock, Haris Alexiou, Goran Bregovic, The Blues Brothers Band, Deep Purple, Slayer, Sting and many more.

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

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TOPHANE-İ AMİRE CULTURE AND ART CENTER

Tophane, Beyoğlu - İstanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°01'39.3"N 28°58'51.9"E / 41.027583, 28.981083

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TOPHANE-İ AMİRE CULTURE AND ART CENTER

After 1850s, the building became the centre of the weaponry industry and commerce. In the 1900s, it was used as a education centre. At 1958, it is started to use as a military museum. The building has undergone various arrangements until 1992. Tophane-i Amire transferred to the Mimar Sinan University at 1992.

This elegant, evocative exhibition hall is sponsored by Turkey’s premiere fine arts university, Mimar Sinan Güzel Sanatlar Üniversitesi (Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University). Now its eight-domed ceiling shelters a very different endeavor; it hosts university and private art exhibitions

Available for exhibitions, fairs, concerts, stage performances, dinner receptions and cocktail parties. With an area of 1022 sqm, this historic building has a capacity of 300 people for banquets and 600 people for cocktail parties.

It has been using as a culture and art center consisting of three exhibition halls i.e. Tophane-i Amire Beş Kubbe, Tophane-i Amire Tek Kubbe and Tophane-i Amire Sarnıçlar. Both the native and international collections are exhibited in these multipurpose galleries through the year.

CANNON BALL FOUNDRY

Tophane-i Amire was constructed in the XV. century, on the area of Ste. Claire and Aya Photini churches which called as Metopon in the Byzantine period. After the conquest of Istanbul, Sultan II. Mehmed built a cannon-ball casting factory and Tophane-i Amire became a place in which the cannon balls for Ottoman army and the navy produced.

Built in the 15 th Century, the Tophane-i Amire (Imperial Artillery) building was used for over 450 years as a foundry producing cannons for the Ottoman Empire. In the 16th century the building was enlarged by Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, and in the 18th century a water cistern was built to provide water for the surrounding district. After the establishment of the Turkish Republic the Tophane-i Amire remained under the auspices of the Ministry of Defence until 1992, when it was transferred to Mimar Sinan University.

Tophane-i Amire, 15th century cannon foundry was home to the industry that gave the Tophane neighborhood its name. The current mortar and brick building is the 19th century makeover of the former foundry.

The first building was attributed to Fatih Sultan Mehmet after the conquest of Constantinople. As the Ottoman armies grew larger and went further out, the need for more and larger cannon became important.

Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent had a new and larger complex built. Here and there one can still see the remains of other buildings that were part of the complex and places where the workers stayed. Sultan Süleyman reportedly offered a large reward for experienced cannon makers from all over the empire. Today we see a structure that Sultan Mahmut II built, and there is some speculation that this may have been used for various functions after he disbanded the Janissaries and other regiments in 1826.

Mines, mortars, wagons and projectiles were produced in addition to cannon. By employing metal alloys and using better equipment, the Ottoman Army became much better equipped than ever before.

The structure today requires imagination when it comes to casting iron. Searingly high heat, potential danger from cracks and explosions - this was not a safe, gentle profession. The 17th century Ottoman travel writer Evliya Çelebi has a lively description of the foundry, including even how the workers dressed, although perhaps undressed would be a better description. The sultans had a small kiosk built across from the foundry from which they could watch the workmen going in and out and marching in various parades.

Sultan Beyazıt II enlarged the cannon foundry built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet. The arsenal was rebuilt by Süleyman the Magnificent in the 16th century and it was also used as an exhibition area for cannons captured in wars. The barracks and drill fields built between 1757 and 1774 in the area were damaged in the fire of 1804.

The current cannon foundry building dates back to 1803. In 1956, the terraces between the sea and the foundry were removed during the construction of Necatibey Street. The gunpowder needed for cannons was produced by Sultan Mahmut II in the Ataköy district, formerly known as Baruthane.

The iron used in cannon molding was brought from Sinop and Amasra regions; the lead and tin were brought from Europe especially from England. Sultan’s leaving the palace and setting sail was announced by artillery a salute shooting from Tophane (arsenal), and the salvo fire of the ships, entering to the harbour, was replied by artillery shooting from Tophane instead of Palace.

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

MORE INFO & CONTACT
Tel : +90 212 293 4648

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Tuesday, January 24, 2017

TÜYAP FAIR CONVENTION AND CONGRESS CENTER

Beylikdüzü - Istanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°01'39.0"N 28°37'28.0"E / 41.027500, 28.624444

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Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center is the meeting point for international trade fairs in Istanbul, the cradle of civilizations offering numerous business opportunities today and also for tomorrow. Exhibitors and visitors from many countries all over the world benefit from services at national and international standards supported by a well-established infrastructure within the context of more than 50 fairs and activities.

This global platform hosts each year 14.000 exhibitors from almost 60 countries and near 2 million visitors from 70 countries.

SERVICES
Tüyap Fair, Convention And Congress Center is designed to accommodate the full range of services for exhibitors and visitors :

98,000 sqm exhibition space in 12 halls
4500 vehicle capacity open-air parking and 600 vehicle capacity closed parking lot
A minimum of 22 multi-purpose meeting rooms with differing capacities from 10-750
10 cafeterias and 1 A La Carte Restaurant
Fully air conditioned ideal working atmosphere
Press, VIP and administration rooms
Fully equipped infrastructure (pneumatic system, water and drainage systems, 17.600 kVA/h electricity power supply, 8000 kVA/h generator power supply)
Wireless internet connection in the exhibition halls
A variety of visitor entrance, escalators and elevators which facilitate touring for the disabled
Shuttle from various points to fairgrounds.
Private security and control system
Secretarial services in Turkish, English and German
First aid services
Gas station and mini-market for daily needs
McDonalds - drive-in
Taxi station
Photography / video services and sales
Sardunya catering services

CONGRESS AND MEETING HALLS
11 meeting halls of various sizes from 50 to 750, furnished forspecial purposes over a total area of 8000 sqm, are available for meetings, seminars and private conversations.

EXHIBITION HALLS
10 different exhibition halls adjustable for multi purposes
42,000 sqm exhibition area in 10 halls provides ample space for any event.
Conference,concert or meeting halls with a convertible capacity of 10.000 each
2 meeting halls with a convertible capacity of 4000 each
3 meeting halls with a convertible capacity of 2000 each
Large convertible halls where 10.000 people may dine at the same time

Halls
Karadeniz : Foyer 1, Ground Floor, Area 305 Sqm, Theatre 191 pax
Ege 1 : Foyer 1, Ground Floor, Area 60 Sqm, Theatre 50 pax, Banquet 40 pax, Cocktail 50-60 pax
Ege 2 : Foyer 1, Ground Floor, Area 60 Sqm, Theatre 40 pax, Banquet 40 pax, Cocktail 50-60 pax
Sedef : Foyer 2, Ground Floor, Area 105 Sqm, Theatre 70 pax, Banquet 50 pax, Cocktail 70-80 pax
Interexpo : Foyer 1, First Floor, Area 580 Sqm, Theatre 750 pax, Banquet 350 pax, Cocktail 400-450 pax
Marmara : Foyer 1, First Floor, Area 290 Sqm, Theatre 350 pax, Banquet 150 pax, Cocktail 200 pax
Büyükada : Foyer 1, Second Floor, Area 117 Sqm, Theatre 100 pax, Banquet 70 pax, Cocktail 80-90 pax
Heybeli : Foyer 1, Second Floor, Area 114 Sqm, Theatre 80 pax
Kınalı : Foyer 1, Second Floor, Area 68 Sqm, Theatre 60 pax, Banquet 40 pax, Cocktail 50-60 pax
Burgaz : Foyer 1, Second Floor, Area 22 Sqm, Theatre 12 pax
Akdeniz : Foyer 3, Second Floor, Area 180 Sqm, Theatre 120 pax, Banquet 100 pax, Cocktail 150 pax

Beylerbeyi : Hall 12, Ground Floor, Area 90 Sqm, Theatre 70 pax, Banquet 40 pax, Cocktail 70 pax
Ortaköy : Hall 12, Ground Floor, Area 32 Sqm, Theatre 12 pax
Kandilli : Hall 12, First Floor, Area 80 Sqm, Theatre 60 pax, Banquet 40 pax, Cocktail 70 pax
Moda : Hall 12, First Floor, Area 120 Sqm, Theatre 100 pax, Banquet 70 pax, Cocktail 150 pax
Kalamış : Hall 12, First Floor, Area 280 Sqm, Theatre 250 pax, Banquet 150 pax, Cocktail 250 pax
Dalyan 1 : Hall 12, First Floor, Area 16 Sqm, Theatre 8 pax
Dalyan 2 : Hall 12, First Floor, Area 19 Sqm, Theatre 8 pax
Emirgan : Hall 12, Second Floor, Area 106 Sqm, Theatre 90 pax, Banquet 70 pax, Cocktail 100 pax
Tarabya : Hall 12, Second Floor, Area 280 Sqm, Theatre 250 pax, Banquet 200 pax, Cocktail 300 pax
Haliç 1 : Hall 12, Second Floor, Area 16 Sqm, Theatre 8 pax
Haliç 2 : Hall 12, Second Floor, Area 19 Sqm, Theatre 8 pax

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

WEB SITE : Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center

MORE INFO & CONTACT
E-Mail : tanitim@tuyap.com.tr
Phone : +90 212 867 1100
Fax : +90 212 886 6698

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İSTANBUL CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTER / RUMELİ CENTRE

Harbiye, Şişli - Istanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°02'51.0"N 28°59'24.0"E / 41.047500, 28.990000

İSTANBUL CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTER / MAIN BUILDING

Harbiye, Şişli - Istanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°02'51.0"N 28°59'24.0"E / 41.047500, 28.990000

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The Istanbul Convention & Exhibition Centre (ICEC) has everything you need to organize memorable and successful congresses and exhibitions in the imperial city of Istanbul. The only place in Istanbul where 3,500 delegates can sit down together for a five-star gala dinner, ICEC offers you an outstanding combination of state-of-the-art facilities and superior service.

Istanbul's Largest Ballroom and Auditorium
ICEC's brand new Rumeli Fair & Exhibition Hall features Istanbul's largest Ballroom measuring 2,100 square meters, which includes simultaneous translation in eleven languages, full audio-visual support and more. The ballroom also divides easily into two smaller ballrooms using sound-proof separators. For large receptions, the Ballroom can be combined with Rumeli's 1,100 square meter and 900 square meter foyers or the foyers can be used staging and registration areas.

The Anadolu Auditorium seats 2,000 in arm-chair comfort and offers complete technical facilities for even the most elaborate performances. From full 16 mm and 35 mm projection facilities to professionally tuned acoustics, the Anadolu Auditorium is a world-class event venue. It was here that world leaders, including Bill Clinton and Jacques Chirac, enjoyed a performance of the epic "Lyrical History of Anatolia", a stage extravaganza featuring a cast of more than 500 and sophisticated lighting, set changes and more. The Anadolu Auditorium was also the site of the Turkish launch of Windows 2000, featuring an address by Bill Gates, broadcast live by satellite up-link.

Break - out rooms, session rooms and satellite conferences
No matter how complicated your event is, ICEC has the infrastructure to meet your needs and ensure that your conference or trade fair runs smoothly. The main ICEC building features a total of 21 meeting rooms with capacities ranging from 600 to 60. The Rumeli Fair & Exhibition Hall offers a further 5 boardrooms and 6 VIP suites as well as a 45 sq.m. (485 sq.ft.) business centre. Plus, on the lower level of the Rumeli Hall, there is enough stand space to accommodate a full-size trade fair in conjunction with your event.

An Integrated facility in the heart of a unique Conference Valley
ICEC and its new Rumeli Fair & Exhibition Hall, which hosted the International Telecommunications Union's World Radio communications Conference 2000, are the centerpiece of a complete Conference Valley. Offering more than 6.000 guest rooms within easy walking distance of ICEC, including 6 five-star hotels, the Conference Valley offers meeting planners unrivalled convenience and flexibility. The ICEC Complex was also designed to be flexible, and can accommodate events large and small, giving organizers the option of using the ICEC facility and the Rumeli Hall separately or together.

MEETING ROOMS
The newest jewel on fabled Istanbul horizon is the Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar Convention & Exhibition Centre, ideally located in the heart of the city's business, cultural and commercial districts and in walking distance of 16 hotels, 3,400 guest rooms. Whether it's a meeting for ten or a conference with 2,000 delegates, Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar Convention & Exhibition Centre has the facilities, professional management and highly trained staff to make your meeting successful and enjoyable.

"The Center" houses 26 meeting rooms including a 2,000-armchair auditorium, equipped with the latest technology for compliance with your total convention and production requirements, including a simultaneous translation facility in 12 languages and electronic voting system. A 3000 square-meter foyer space for product and service exhibitions complements the meeting facilities, as does the fully equipped business center and the underground car park. The top quality five-star in-house food service is equipped to cater to every type of event, from a proper business lunch to an elegant cocktail reception or buffet dinner. The Boğaziçi Borsa Restaurant, specializing in the Turkish cuisine, seats up to 500 people and the adjoining summer terrace 1,500.

A. Lower Level
Borsa catering, with its serving capacity of 7,000, has been established in Lütfi Kırdar Convention and Exhibition centre since 1996. Borsa catering's comprehensive service, from banquets to buffets, make it the ideal choice for international Congresses and meetings as well as other small-scale events.

Haliç
Haliç hall has a 600 m2 floor area and a ceiling height of 3.30 m. It can accommodate 400 people in a theatre layout, 600 in a conference layout, 350 in a classroom layout, 700 in a reception layout and 600 in a banquet layout. The spacious foyer makes the hall an ideal venue for banquets in addition it can accommodate other activities such as seminars and training sessions.

Room Sizes & Capacities
Haliç : Theatre 650, Classroom 350, Cocktail 700, Banquet 600, Height 3.10, Area 600 m2
Haliç Foyer : Cocktail 500, Banquet 400, Height 2.10, Area 415 m2

Topkapı Hall A and B
Topkapı hall has a floor area of 410 m2 and a ceiling height of 3.40 m. In total, the hall can provide seating for 450 people in a theatre layout, 240 in a classroom layout, 500 in a reception layout and 450 in a banquet layout. The spacious foyer enables the hall to be used for various activities such as seminars and trainings sessions.

The most important special feature of the hall is that, it can be divided into two separate soundproof rooms using dividers. This feature allows two separate activities to take place at the same time. When divided Topkapı A has an area of 240 m2 and seating for 250 people in a theatre layout, 150 in a classroom layout, 300 in a cocktail layout and 200 in a banquet layout. Topkapı B has an area of 170 m2 and provides seating for 200 in a theatre layout, 120 in a classroom layout, 250 in a reception layout and 160 in a banquet layout.

Room Sizes & Capacities
Topkapı : Theatre 450, Classroom 240, Cocktail 500, Banquet 450, Height 3.40, Area 410 m2
Topkapı Foyer : Cocktail 250, Height 2.30, Area 240 m2
Topkapı A : Theatre 250, Classroom 150, Cocktail 300, Banquet 200, Height 3.40, Area 230 m2
Topkapı B : Theatre 200, Classroom 120, Cocktail 250, Banquet 160, Height 3.40, Area 170 m2

B. Ground Level
Lütfi Kırdar's staff of experienced hosts and hostesses are at your service. Their level of expertise in a wide variety of events and their knowledge of foreign languages ensure that all guests are cared for the second they walk in the door.

Anadolu Auditorium
Anadolu Auditorium is a conference venue with a floor area of 2,842 m2 it can accommodate 2,000 people. The auditorium has three levels; ground, first and second with a total of 12 entrances on these levels. It is equipped with the latest technology including a mobile stage and it features a direct entry onto the stage from outside the auditorium, which is helpful for users. Thanks to the Anadolu Auditorium, Lütfi Kırdar has been able to accommodate numerous large events such as international conventions, concerts, beauty contests and film premieres. The foyer of this hall has a total floor area of 2,980 m2 on three levels; these can be used as reception or banqueting space before and after each event.

The Stage
Backstage : Scenery entrance 3.00 m x 2.80 m, Three dressing rooms
Stage : Depth 9 m, Total area 300 m2, Goods lift with access to stage: Height 1.10 m, Maximum load 20 t.
Orchestra pit at stage level, Build-in and adjustable telescopic spotlights in ceiling and walls, Mobile podiums on different elevation (20 to 100 cm), 6 wood mobile acoustic walls, measuring h:8.20 m, l: 4.20 m, w:1.60 m (concert shell), Hydraulic forestage platform, subdivided and continuously variable.

Foyer
The Anadolu Auditorium has a foyer with a floor area of 2,980 m2 dispersed on the ground, first and second levels. Haliç and Topkapı hall foyers occupy a floor area of 655 m2 on the lower level. In total there is 3,635 m2 of foyer space. These foyer areas can be used for coffee breaks and receptions for all kinds of activities as well as during opening ceremonies of conventions, concerts and beauty contests. The main entrance foyer at ground level is ideally suited as a registration or exhibition area especially for large conferences.

Back Stage Rooms
There are 3 back stage rooms on ground level behind the Auditorium. These can provide preparation rooms for speakers, chairpersons and exhibition staff; however, these rooms can be used only when the Anadolu Auditorium is hired.

Room Sizes & Capacities
Anadolu Auditorium : Theatre 2000, Area 2.482 m2
Foyer : Cocktail 2000, Banquet 1.500, Area 2.980 m2

C. First Level
There is a first aid room with all kinds of medical equipment in Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar Convention and Exhibition Centre. Doctors, nurses, and ambulance services can be obtained during event, if needed.

Dolmabahçe A, B, C
The Dolmabahçe Hall has a 440 m2 floor area and is 2.50 m high. It can be separated into three soundproof rooms using dividers. The hall can provide seating for 350 people in a theatre layout, 175 in a classroom layout, 500 in a reception layout and 400 in a banquet layout. When divided Dolmabahçe A can provide seating for 160 in a theatre layout, 100 in a classroom layout, 160 in a reception layout and 160 in a banquet layout. Dolmabahçe B can provide seating for 130 people in a theatre layout, 80 in a class layout, 140 in a reception layout and 140 in a banquet layout. Dolmabahçe C can provide seating for 150 in a theatre layout, 90 in a class layout and 150 in a reception layout. The rooms are modern, attractive and well-decorated with automatic curtains, veneer walls and floor and a wonderful Bosphorus view.

Fatih 1 - 5
Fatih rooms are fully furnished VIP rooms complete with bathroom and shower facilities. They can be used when all the building or just the Anadolu Auditorium is hired. Celebrities and VIP guests can make use these rooms.

D. Second Level
There is a first aid room with all kinds of medical equipment in Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar Convention and Exhibition Centre. Doctors, nurses, and ambulance services can be obtained during event, if needed.

Marmara
The Marmara Hall has a 385 m2 floor area and is 4.00 m high. It can provide space for 500 people in a theatre layout style, 300 in a class layout, 500 in a reception layout, and 420 in a banquet layout. This meeting room has a panoramic Bosphorus view. It is suitable for various functions such as seminars, company meetings or receptions.

Marmara : Theatre 500, Classroom 300, Cocktail 500, Banquet 420, Height 4.00 m, Area 385 m2

Sultan 1 - 4
Sultan 1 and Sultan 4 rooms both have 50 m2 of floor area and can provide seating for 50 people in a theatre layout. Sultan 2 and 3 both have 27 m2 of floor area and are 3.00 m high, they can provide seating for 25 people in a theatre layout. These rooms have daylight and can be used for training seminars or workshop rooms. There is a connecting door between the Sultan rooms.

Sultan 1 : Theatre 50, Classroom 35, Cocktail 40, Banquet 40, Height 4.00 m, Area 50 m2
Sultan 2 : Theatre 15, Classroom 10, Cocktail 15, Banquet 15, Height 4.00 m, Area 27 m2
Sultan 3 : Theatre 15, Classroom 10, Cocktail 15, Banquet 15, Height 4.00 m, Area 27 m2
Sultan 4 : Theatre 50, Classroom 35, Cocktail 40, Banquet 40, Height 4.00 m, Area 58 m2

Barbaros 1 - 5
Barbaros rooms each have a 17 m2 of floor area and are 3.00 m high. They can provide seating for 25 people in a theatre layout. These rooms have daylight and they can be used as workshops or secretarial office rooms.

Barbaros 1 : Theatre 25, Classroom 20, Cocktail 25, Banquet 15, Height 3.00 m, Area 17 m2
Barbaros 2 : Theatre 25, Classroom 20, Cocktail 25, Banquet 15, Height 3.00 m, Area 17 m2
Barbaros 3 : Theatre 25, Classroom 20, Cocktail 25, Banquet 15, Height 3.00 m, Area 17 m2
Barbaros 4 : Theatre 25, Classroom 20, Cocktail 25, Banquet 15, Height 3.00 m, Area 17 m2
Barbaros 5 : Theatre 25, Classroom 20, Cocktail 25, Banquet 15, Height 3.00 m, Area 17 m2

Levent 1 - 5
Levent rooms each have 17 m2 of floor area and are 3.00 m high. They can provide seating for 25 people in a theatre layout. These rooms have daylight and they can be used as workshops or secretarial office rooms.

Levent 1 : Theatre 25, Classroom 20, Cocktail 25, Banquet 15, Height 3.00 m, Area 17 m2
Levent 2 : Theatre 25, Classroom 20, Cocktail 25, Banquet 15, Height 3.00 m, Area 17 m2
Levent 3 : Theatre 25, Classroom 20, Cocktail 25, Banquet 15, Height 3.00 m, Area 17 m2
Levent 4 : Theatre 25, Classroom 20, Cocktail 25, Banquet 15, Height 3.00 m, Area 17 m2
Levent 5 : Theatre 25, Classroom 20, Cocktail 25, Banquet 15, Height 3.00 m, Area 17 m2

BUSINESS CENTER
The Business Centre provides for the document requirements of participants, organizers and visitors in the Istanbul Convention and Exhibition Centre. The centre is equipped with the latest technology. Facilities include document services such as photocopying, printing (black/white and colour), scanning and fax. All the participants, organizers and visitors can obtain all kinds of printed materials on paper or acetate from the centre.

PRESS ROOM
The Press Room is located in the ground level on the right side of cloakroom. It is used by members of the media to prepare news stories in a silent work-friendly environment. Telephone, fax and Internet lines are provided on request.

VIP ROOMS
Fatih rooms are fully furnished VIP rooms with bathroom and shower facilities. They can be used when all the building or just the Anadolu Auditorium is hired. They are available to celebrities and other VIP guests.

BOĞAZİÇİ BORSA RESTAURANT
Boğaziçi Borsa Restaurant in the Istanbul Convention and Exhibition Centre has a stunning panoramic Bosphorus view. In winter it can serve to 140 people inside and in summer can serve up to 300 in it's outdoor dining area. The restaurant is open between 12:00-16:00 and 20:00-24:00 everyday. Its menu includes various wines, meat-chicken and fish dishes, a selection of hot and cold starters and a dessert menu. Classical Turkish cuisine is served along with a mixture of international cuisine. It is open 7 days a week and can cater for groups up to 30 people.

INTERNET
Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar Convention & Exhibition Centre and Koçnet have agreed to expend all activities at Lütfi Kırdar into Internet. Koçnet set up fiber optic high speed, high capacity link to Lütfi Kırdar. Lütfi Kırdar now has high speed Internet connection. Video Conference over IP or ISDN-BRI, M Video recording, Streaming and wireless 802.11b Internet connections as standard services first time in Lütfi Kırdar. Wireless 802.11b Internet service at closed public location is first time application in Turkey at Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar Convention & Exhibition Centre.

TRANSLATION
At Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar Convention & Exhibition Centre you can find also multilingual simultaneous translation equipment (up to 12 languages)

TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Standard Services : 64 Kbs to 2 Mbs Internet connections (XDSL, Leased Line, Frame Relay, ATM), 802.11b wireless Internet connections, Video Conference over IP and ISND-BRI, Video recording and VCD or DVD production, Streaming (live or recorded).

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT
Comprehensive list of vision, sound, simultaneous and lighting available for hire in Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Video and data large screen projection (9 m x 6 m), 13 m. X 6 m. Large screen, 1024 x 768 solubility video projection for presentations, 700 seats for classroom style and sound system with delegate, Microphone, Acoustic hall walls, Sound, lighting, stage control rooms, video pre-wiring, High-performance Electronic overhead and 575 W overhead projection, 750 W, 36 mm xenon slide projector, Simultaneous interpreting facilities for 12 languages (permanently installed or using infrared transmission as required), Infrared receiver and headphones, Video projection Betacam VHS, U-matic, CDI, LPD, 40 ch soundcraft Europa and 40 ch. Soundcraft broadway sound mixer.

SERVICES

Catering Service
Borsa catering, with its serving capacity of 7,000, has been established in Lütfi Kırdar Convention and Exhibition Centre since 1996. Borsa catering's comprehensive service, from banquets to buffets, make it the ideal choice for international congresses and meetings as well as other small-scale events.

Hostess Service
Lütfi Kırdar's staff of experienced hosts and hostesses is at your service. Their level of expertise in a wide variety of events and their knowledge of foreign languages ensure that all guests are cared for the second they walk in the door.

First Aid
There is a first aid room with all kinds of medical equipment in Istanbul Lütfi Kırdar Convention and Exhibition Centre. Doctors, nurses, and ambulance services can be obtained during event, if needed.

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

WEB SITE : The Istanbul Convention and Exhibition Centre / Main Building

MORE INFO & CONTACT
Phone : +90 212 373 1100
Fax : +90 212 224 0878

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2017, respected writers and photographers from the internet. All Rights Reserved.

Monday, January 23, 2017

FESHANE INTERNATIONAL FAIR CONGRESS AND CULTURE CENTER

Defterdar, Eyüp - İstanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°02'40.0"N 28°56'14.0"E / 41.044444, 28.937222

PHOTOGRAPHS ALBUM

Feshane International Fair Congress and Culture Center has all the facilities required for the successful and unforgettable organizations that you will make in Istanbul. Feshane is a place on the coast of the Golden Horn where all kinds of fair, organization, meeting, seminar, concert, gala, party, exhibition and cultural activities can be carried out. Feshane is adding a different color to the Golden Horn with its green areas supported historical structure. Feshane has a special pier opening to the Golden Horn, too. Feshane is built on 56.000 square meters area.

HISTORY

Feshane was built in 1839 with the order of Sultan Abdülmecit I in order to meet the fes and woolen cloth needs of the Ottoman army. Being the first textile institution of our country in the real sense, was one of the first examples of the steel construction building with the columns which were brought in from Belgium and assembled in 1951. Feshane, whose steam operated looms were also brought from abroad, was renewed in 1866 as the most developed textile factory of its time.

The clothes which were knit in Feshane were awarded many golden medals in 1855 Paris International Exhibition, in 1863 Istanbul Exhibition “Sergi-I Umum-I Osmani (General Ottoman Exhibition)” and in 1893 Chicago International Exhibition.

In 1939 the “Feshane Mensucat A.Ş. (Fez Factory Textile Inc.)” with its name at that time, was shot down and changed into Sümerbank Financial Department Factory. In 1986 the 8000 square meter great looming hall of the factory, which was abandoned due to the Golden Horn environmental arrangement works, was restorated staying loyal to the original.

SERVICES

Rental Halls
Our places that have unique utilization areas which you can use for all your activities are ready for service with the most suitable terms.

Organization Support
The necessary concept development, application services for all of your organizations will be provided.

Catering And Restaurant
Lale Restaurant with its 200 square meters utility area and a capacity of 120 people is a unique area from which you can receive restaurant service in all the organizations you make in Feshane.

Car Parking
The 11.000 square meters utility area has 1000 cars and 50 trucks capacity.

ACTIVITIES

Institutional
Company Activities, Municipality Activities, Product Launching, VIP lounge

Fairs And Congress
National and International, Fairs Congresses

Private Activities
Concerts, Receptions, Gala, Meetings With Dinner

Cultural And Arts Activities
Seminars, Exhibitions, Panels, Workshops

ACTIVITIES AREAS

Sultan Mahmut II Hall
4000 square meters utility area, 3000 people in theater arrangement, 2200 people in gala dinner, 3000 people in cocktail, 2800 people in cocktail prolonge, The height of the hall is 5.5 meters, Width between the columns is 5 meters. It has the necessary equipments for fair, concert, gala, seminar and meeting organizations.

Sadabad Hall
330 square meters utility area, 300 people in theater arrangement, 250 people in gala dinner. It has the necessary equipments for fair, concert, gala, seminar, meeting and reception organizations.

Golden Horn Hall
1800 square meters utility area. It has the necessary equipments for fair organizations.

Küçük Bedesten Hall
600 square meters utility area. It has the necessary equipments for fair organizations.

Lale Restaurant
200 square meters utility area. Hall capacity 120 people. It is the hall from which you can receive restaurant service in all your organizations in Feshane.

Opean Area
12.000 square meters utility area. It has the infrastructure to use as an open area fair or for your special receptions. You can take in your visitors and guests from own pier of Feshane comfortably and securely and host them. While Saltanat Boats can be used in order to live nostalgia, all points of Ýstanbul can be reached by sea motors.

GENERAL INFORMATION

General Policy

Before the reservation, all the items on the Feshane International Fair Congress and Culture Center contract should be agreed upon and the prepayment should have been realized.

1) Some services provided during the activity are listed below :
Air conditioning system, air conditioner, General lighting, General cleaning, General announcement system, Phone operator, phone system, internet, Chair, table and tablecloths, Security Service (general door security), Free Parking Cards For the Participators

2) The services which can be requested in addition with the contract :
First aid, Additional security, Special cleaning, Special voice/light/platform etc. information, Stand design

The Management of Feshane International Fair Congress and Culture Center should be informed of the exact number of guests two workdays before the activity. The scope of the reservation will only be understood with the number of guests and thus the total cost is determined. If the number of participators is less than the number stated at the reservation time, no discount is applied.

If the organization company requests doctor, nurse and ambulance service can be hired during the activity. It is forbidden to hang flags, banners, pendants and posters. Such applications can only be made on the specified area provided that the management gives approval. As it is stated on the contract it is forbidden to glue or nail anything on the doors, walls and ceilings of the halls. More information on how the organizers can use the building is detailed in the contract. The halls cannot be transferred to a third party (person).

Services

A. Food and Drinks
Feshane International Fair Congress and Culture Center has a wide variety of food, drink that fits every taste. Lale Restaurant which has 200 people service capacity is serving under the Management, Feshane International Fair Congress and Culture Center. Lale Restaurant with its comprehensive service from feast to open buffet is an ideal choice for small sized activities as well as international congresses and meetings. No food can be brought from outside in all the activities held in Feshane International Fair Congress and Culture Center.

B. Service Personnel
The personnel and experienced workers of Feshane International Fair Congress and Culture Center are at your service. The expertise of the personnel covering a wide variety of activities, provides that your guests are hosted with attention from the moment they enter through the door of Feshane.

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

WEB SITE : Feshane International Fair Congress and Culture Center

MORE INFO & CONTACT
E-Mail : rezervasyon@beltur.com.tr
Phone : +90 212 501 7326
Fax : +90 212 501 7328

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2017, respected writers and photographers from the internet. All Rights Reserved.

HALİÇ CONGRESS CENTER

Sütlüce, Beyoğlu - İstanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°03'03.1"N 28°56'24.5"E / 41.050861, 28.940139

PHOTOGRAPHS ALBUM

Sütlüce is a neighborhood in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, Turkey, located at the eastern bank of Golden Horn across Eyüp. İstanbul's main slaughterhouse was situated in Sütlüce. The facility, which caused great air and water pollution to the natural environment at Golden Horn, was abandoned in 1984 after 61 years of service. In accordance with the city's urban redevelopment plan and the transformation of the old slaughterhouse into a modern congress complex, Sütlüce became a center of attraction for real estate investors.

Financed by the Metropolitan Municipality of Istanbul, the restoration of the slaughterhouse began in 1998 and the Sütlüce Cultural Center (Turkish: Sütlüce Kültür Merkezi) was opened in 2009. It has a fairground of 9,400 m2 (101,000 sq ft), a quayside of 8,250 m2 (88,800 sq ft) with a green space of 17,000 m2 (180,000 sq ft). The complex comprises a concert hall for 3,000 audience, a theatre for 1,100 guests, three movie theatres having a total capacity of 800 people, 14 work halls and a restaurant for 650 people.

Imagine a meeting venue by the sea where urban sounds mingle with the cries of gulls and waves lapping against the shores of the Haliç Congress Center; an unforgettable scenic location where you can take a break from the chaotic city without actually having to leave it. The Center’s unique setting along the banks of the Haliç, also known as ‘the Golden Horn’ presents an unforgettably panoramic and spectacular view of historic İstanbul.

As one of the few venues in the world where indoor, outdoor and waterfront events can be held simultaneously, the Haliç Congress Center stands out with its low-slung architecture. Spread out over an area of 102,000 m2, with 16,000 m2 of outdoor space, the Haliç Congress Center is comprised of four main interconnecting structures called Sadabad, Kuleli, Pera and Haliç.

Capable of accommodating up to 30,000 guests for all types of organizations, the Haliç Congress Center bears the distinction as the convention center which offers the most alternatives available in İstanbul. Its halls, auditoriums, foyers and outdoor areas are the most sought after for holding conventions, meetings, conferences, product launchings, exhibits / fairs, cocktail parties, wedding receptions, film galas and special theatrical performances. Incorporating the latest technological infrastructure, the Haliç Congress Center also hosts the largest auditorium in İstanbul.

With purpose-built conference venues such as the Haliç Congress Center, plenty of four- and five-star hotel meeting facilities, unique venues and a vast variety of tour options to the major sites of Turkey, the city’s existing and ever-expanding infrastructure easily caters to all kinds of requirements demanded by international congresses organizers.

İstanbul hosts many successful international meetings, congresses, cultural, sportive and social events, all of which are references for future events in regards of capacity, capability and experiences. The steadily increasing number of participants in international meetings and congresses is proof of the attractiveness of İstanbul for visitors. That in itself is an important element for planners.

With its unique way of life, geographic position and cultural heritage, İstanbul , which is one of the world’s greatest metropolises, constitutes a distinct alternative for Congress & Meeting visitors. With just over 13 million inhabitants, a contemporary lifestyle approach, congress centers and hotels built with the most advanced technological infrastructure, İstanbul was ranked amongst the top seven favorite cities around the world for hosting congresses in the ICCA Worldwide Rankings 2010 list. As a destination of numerous airlines from virtually anywhere in the world, İstanbul is one of the most special cities where you can come for meetings and take in the sights and smells via a veritable cornucopia of mass transit alternatives.

Meeting Rooms & Spaces
Spread out over an area of 102,000 m2, including 16,000 m2 of multi-purpose outdoor space, the Haliç Congress Center is comprised of; 5 state of-the-art auditoriums, (including the largest in İstanbul) with seating capacities from 219 to 3008 pax; interconnecting foyer and gallery areas totaling 9,721 m2; 21 multi-purpose rooms with seating capacities from 50 to 850 pax, all brought together in a refined manner as İstanbul’s largest waterfront convention center.

Constructed with the most advanced technological infrastructure and capable of handling up to 30,000 guests, the Haliç Congress Center is an ideal events venue for organizing a myriad of congresses, meetings, theatrical performances, cocktail parties, receptions, weddings, symposiums, exhibits and fairs, and special film screenings.

With an 9,721 m2 foyer area connecting four main buildings, (Haliç, Sadabad, Pera and Kuleli) as well as an 16,000 m2 outdoor area, the Haliç Congress Center is an indispensable venue hosting all types of organizations such meetings, seminars, cocktail parties, private receptions, exhibits, fairs, various stage performances in any one of its several auditoriums, foyers, meeting rooms, not to mention the wide expanse embracing the Golden Horn shoreline.

Galleries & Foyers
Opening out onto the waterfront and benefitting from plenty of sunlight, the galleries and foyers also offer your guests the opportunity to experience the incredible panoramic view of the Golden Horn. Connecting the four buildings of the Haliç Congress Center, the wide galleries and foyers constitute an impressive 9,721 m2 of exhibit space, available to host all types of events. Opening out onto the waterfront with plenty of sunlight, the galleries and foyers also offer guests the opportunity to experience the incredible panoramic view of the Golden Horn.

Outdoor Event Spaces
The Haliç Congress Center offers 16,000 m2 of outdoor event space, 6,239 m2 of which lies along the 367-m. long Golden Horn shoreline, directly opening from all the foyers and galleries. The 30,000 pax capacity Haliç Congress Center facilitates maximum participation of private organizations such as cocktail parties, weddings, receptions, fairs and stage shows with berthing points for vessels to come alongside.

Haliç Building
Comprised of the Haliç Auditorium, Haliç foyer and 12 backstage rooms, the Haliç Building houses the Largest Congress Center Auditorium in İstanbul. With a 3008-seating capacity, a 2,830 m2 foyer, a 477 m2 stage with direct rear-loading/offloading access, a 110 m2 orchestra pit / stage extension and 12 backstage rooms, this auditorium is the ideal venue for meetings, product launches, ceremonies, film premieres, concerts and shows. The auditorium is furnished with the latest technology, enable organizers to host a wide variety of activities and live performances. Meanwhile, the two-storey Haliç Foyer accommodates exhibitions, banquets and opens onto the waterfront, sublimely underscoring uniqueness and originality.

Haliç Auditorium Technical Equipments
- 36 kW, 120 db P.A. Dolby Digital audio, Wenger acoustic shell systems
- A light system with an automation and digitally controlled center comprised of 1024 fixed channel and mobile spotlights
- HD projectors and backdrop curtains, LED screens, visual monitors, indoor-outdoor applications, wide-screen applications
- 12-language simultaneous translation system
- 300-pax digital delegation voting system
- HD camcorder with robotic boom
- Orchestra pit elevator and truss systems with the appropriate broadcasting infrastructure
- 35-mm film projector and screen

Sadabad Building
The Sadabad Building is comprised of a 1,744 m2 foyer and the center’s second-largest auditorium with seating for 1,138 guests. The auditorium offers another unique alternative for congresses, meetings, product launches, ceremonies, concerts and shows. 45 m2 of its 150 m2 stage is portable, thus offering direct access for loading / offloading. The auditorium has six simultaneous translation cabins, Dolby Digital audio, a Wenger acoustic shell system, high-definition projector and curtains, LED screens, display monitors, widescreen applications, a digital voting system for 175 delegates and a video recording system with robotic HD camera boom. With direct access to the Haliç Auditorium foyer via the Gallery 2 passageway, the spacious Sadabad Auditorium foyer can be used for exhibitions, coffee breaks and banquets.

Pera Building
Featuring Eyüp, Tophane and Fener auditoriums, as well as the multi-purpose Lale and Mimoza halls, the Pera Building can host a total of 1,200 pax. Overlooking the Golden Horn, Lale and Mimoza are ideal for hosting luncheons or banquets. Combining the foyer with Gallery 1, a total space of 2436 m2 is ideal for gala dinners, exhibitions, weddings, parties, etc. Each of the Pera auditoriums feature six simultaneous translation cabins, six backstage rooms, Dolby Digital audio, sliding curtains, digital delegation systems, in other words, all the technical amenities needed for a wide range of organizations.

Fener Auditorium
Situated within the Pera Building, the Fener Auditorium can seat up to 266 persons. Opening out into a wide 1100-person foyer area, the Fener Auditorium represents the ideal alternative for your middle-sized meetings.

Fener Auditorium Technical Equipments
- An 8 kW, 109 db multi-functional, Dolby Digital sound system
- A 48 fixed-channel digital control center
- A multi-functional visual system, screen and projector, visual monitor
- A simultaneous translation system equipped for six languages UIRIES
- 12-pax digital delegation voting system

Tophane Auditorium
Situated within the Pera Building, the Tophane Auditorium can seat up to 219 persons and was constructed with the most advanced technological equipment. The Tophane Auditorium has a wide foyer area which handles up to 1100 persons.

Tophane Auditorium Technical Equipments
- An 8 kW, 109 db multi-functional, Dolby Digital sound system
- A 48 fixed-channel digital control center
- A multi-functional visual system, screen and projector, visual monitor
- A simultaneous translation system equipped for six languages UIRIES
- 12-pax digital delegation voting system

Eyüp Auditorium
Situated within the Pera Building, the Eyüp Auditorium can seat up to 266 persons and has a wide foyer area for up to 1100 persons.

Eyüp Auditorium Technical Equipments
- An 8 kW, 109 db multi-functional, Dolby Digital sound system
- A 48 fixed-channel digital control center
- A multi-functional visual system, screen and projector, visual monitor
- A simultaneous translation system equipped for six languages UIRIES
- 12-pax digital delegation voting system

Kuleli Building
Constructed with neo-Classic architectural elements of the 1920’s, the two-storey Kuleli Building is an alternative venue featuring a total of 11 meeting rooms which can easily handle all your organizations from a few as 50 and up to 1,000 pax. While the seaside meeting rooms are comprised of Balat (110 pax) and Cibali (150 pax), the landside features the Hasköy (110 pax) and Kasımpaşa (300 pax) meeting rooms whereas the Cibali and Kasımpaşa halls have removable partitions. Kuleli Building’s ground level is the perfect place for exhibitions, banquets and cocktails. Offering a magnificent view of the Haliç, the ground level 1100 m2 terrace foyer is an exclusive and spacious area for outdoor functions.

Galata Ballroom
With some very pleasant color coordination and modern architecture used in the interior design, the Galata Ballroom comprises a unique alternative which you can utilize as a venue for special meetings, receptions, cocktail parties, weddings and exhibits. Offering an impressive 1,160 m2, the Galata Ballroom provides an exquisite setting for a wide range of events, from weddings and banquet to meetings, exhibitions, galas and product launches. Designed in a modern yet elegant fashion, Galata Ballroom can accommodate up to 1000 guests. The neutral décor and soft lighting will make a tasteful statement to your guests and turn your event into an unforgettable experience.

Special Events

Shows & Performances
Concerts, live shows, cinema galas, operas and fashion shows… The Haliç Congress Center is the perfect setting for prestigious performances. Featuring all types of technical amenities, optimal acoustics and elevated stage systems, the Haliç and Sadabad Auditoriums are ideal for holding concerts, film galas, fashion shows, culture-fine art events and theater shows. Besides these auditoriums, the Galata Ballroom, Lale Room, Gallery 1 & 2, the Kuleli ground level as well as the Haliç, Sadabad and Pera foyers all provide ideal settings for outdoor or indoor wedding receptions, banquets and cocktails for up to 10,000 pax at a time.

As the only shoreline congress center in İstanbul, the Haliç Congress Center’s 6,239 m2 of waterfront area overlooking the Golden Horn is a stunning backdrop for outdoor events. The Center offers a wide selection from Turkish cuisine, internationally renowned for its diversity and refinement. Besides fine examples of local food, the Haliç Congress Center can cater international cuisine prepared by the best chefs.

Technology
Outfitted with some of the most advanced technological set-up available, the Haliç Congress Center’s technical firm, PIA, Inc. is ready and fully rigged to make your organization a major success. With its thoroughly experienced professional staff and ‘win-win’ working style, the Haliç Congress Center features all the technical infrastructure your event requires, such as; built-in Line Array audio systems in the auditoriums and halls, computerized lighting and mechanical stage systems, full HD broadcast systems, Dolby Digital cinema systems, architectural- and electro-acoustic systems, stage theater and opera truss systems; simultaneous translation, delegation and video conferencing equipment, wireless internet, as well as video and audio transfer.

F&B Services
The Haliç Congress Center can cater special events for up to 10,000 pax with a wide selection of Turkish cuisine, internationally renowned for its diversity and refinement, as well as international cuisine prepared by master chefs.

Erguvan Restaurant
Erguvan Restaurant is a special spot where you can sample the distinct flavors and appetizers of Turkish cuisine, one of the finest in the world, while regarding the incredible view of the Golden Horn

Offering an exquisite selection of Turkish and international cuisines prepared by master chefs, the Haliç Congress Center’s a-la-carte Erguvan Restaurant is a wonderful setting for lunch and dinner. Open to event participants as well as visitors, Erguvan Restaurant can accommodate 210 guests (100 outdoors and 110 indoors) for banquets and cocktails. Pleasantly decorated in light tones and relaxing atmosphere, Erguvan Restaurant is the perfect place to forget about the day’s stressful activity and sample the distinct flavors and appetizers of Turkish cuisine, while taking in the picturesque view of the Golden Horn shoreline.

Lale Room
Overlooking the Golden Horn shoreline, the Lale Room is an indispeLocatiopnnsable venue for special meetings and receptions with its interior design and rustic wood decoration. The Lale Room represents a unique alternative to host up to 300 pax.

Parking
While the Haliç Congress Center outdoor car park has space for 1400 vehicles, the underground car park can handle 1000 vehicles, both of which are monitored 24 hours a day via CCTV cameras situated throughout the premises.

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

WEB SITE : Haliç Congress Center

MORE INFO & CONTACT
Phone : +90 212 311 1111
Fax : +90 212 311 1199

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RUMELİHİSARI MUSEUM

Rumelihisarı, Sarıyer - Istanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°05'05.6"N 29°03'24.3"E / 41.084886, 29.056750

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Rumelihisarı is a fortress located in the Sarıyer district of Istanbul, on a hill at the European side of the Bosphorus. It gives the name of the quarter around it. It was built by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II between 1451 and 1452, before he conquered Constantinople. The three great towers were named after three of Mehmed II's viziers, Sadrazam Çandarlı Halil Pasha, who built the big tower next to the gate, Zağanos Pasha, who built the south tower, and Sarıca Pasha, who built the north tower.

It consists of three large and one small towers, connected by a wall reinforced with 13 small watchtowers. With cannons mounted on its main towers, the fort gave the Ottomans complete control of the passage of ships through Bosporus, a role evoked clearly in its original name, Boğazkesen "cutter of the strait". After the conquest of Constantinople, it served as a customs checkpoint and a prison, notably for the embassies of states that were at war with the Empire. After suffering extensive damage in the 1509 earthquake, it was repaired, and was used continuously until the late 19th century.

It was built by Sultan Mehmed II in four months beginning in the spring of 1452 across the waters from the Anatolian Fortress (Anadoluhisari or Güzelce Hisar) built by his grandfather Sultan Bayezid I (1389-1402). The aim was to establish control of the waterway at this narrowest point of the strait (660 m) where ships would need to approach the shore to avoid the strong currents. A batallion of four hundred soldiers were stationed at the fortress (hisar) beginning in 1452, and prevented the passage of ships with canon fire during the siege of Constantinople. It is hence, also known as the Boğazkesen or the Controller of the Straits.

Rumelihisarı is situated at the narrowest point with 660 m of the Bosporus strait, just opposite of the Anadoluhisarı on the Anatolian side, another Ottoman fortress which was built between 1393 and 1394 by Sultan Bayezid I. The place was chosen to prevent aid from the Black Sea reaching Constantinople during the Turkish siege of the city in 1453, particularly from the Genoese colonies such as Caffa, Sinop and Amasra.

Sultan Murad II (1404-1451), who wanted to ferry his army across the Bosporus, encountered difficulties due to the blockade of the Byzantine fleet. The necessity of a fortress opposite of Anadoluhisarı was well known to the Ottomans. At this place, there was a Roman fortification in the past, which was used as a prison by the Byzantine and Genoese. Later on, a monastery was built here.

In preparation for the conquest of Constantinople, Sultan Mehmed II (1432-1481), son of Sultan Murad II, started to realize the construction of the fortress immediately following his second ascent to the throne in 1451. He refused the plea for peace of the Byzantine Emperor Constantine XI (1404-1453), who understood the intention of the Sultan.

The construction began on April 15, 1452. Each one of the three main towers were named after the Pashas who supervised their construction, which were later named after them. The sultan personally inspected the activities on the site. With the help of thousands of masons and workers, the fortress was completed in a record time of 4 months and 16 days on August 31, 1452.

Historical documents show that the site was vacant except for the remains of two cisterns and that Byzantine ruins in the vicinity were used to supply stone for the construction. The fortress lost its strategic importance after the fall of Constantinople in 1453 when a second pair of fortresses was built further up the Bosphorus where the strait meets the Black Sea. The Rumeli Fortress became a storage facility and a prison for local and foreign diplomats.

It was repaired immediately after the 1509 earthquake and survived a 17th century fire. It was last repaired by the Ottomans during the rule of Selim III (1789-1807). A large fishing village, inhabited largely by Ottoman Turks who were settled there during the construction of the fortress, developed along the waterfront with seaside mansions built beginning in late 18th century. A new neighborhood (Hisariçi) was formed inside the fortress after it was abandoned in the 19th century. The oldest Ottoman cemetery on European soil is found adjoining the fortress to the south.

The fortress is a walled-in enclosure 250 meters long and 130 meters wide at its longest. It has one small and three large towers (kule) and thirteen small watchtowers (burç). Its total area is 31,250 m2. The towers are named after their vizier donors, who are also believed to have supervised the construction. The walls begin at the Halil Paşa Tower at the water's edge, travel diagonally up the hill to the Saruca Paşa Tower at the northwest peak, continue southward across a valley to the Zaganos Paşa Tower at the southwest peak and descend vertically down to the waters edge to the small Zaganos Paşa tower a hundred meters south of the Halil Paşa Tower.

There are three entrances, one next to each large tower; a shallower outer wall (hisarpeçe) protects the seaside entrance. The peripheries of the Halil Paşa, Saruca Paşa and the Zaganos Paşa towers are 23.3 meters, 23.8 meters and 26.70 meters respectively and their heights are 35, 33.3 and 25.30 meters excluding the conical roofs that once crowned the towers. The last two are round while the first is twelve-sided on the exterior. Inscriptive plaques in Arabic, referring to Zaganos Paşa were found at the southwest tower that is named after him and also at a smaller tower located at the southeast corner, at the water's edge.

The space within each tower was divided up with wooden floors, each equipped with a furnace (ocak); only the Saruca Paşa Tower retains its wooden floors. All towers, watchtowers and walls are topped with crenellations.

The fortress had wooden houses for the soldiers and a small mosque, endowed by Mehmed II at the time of construction. Only the minaret shaft remains of the original mosque, while the small mescid added in the mid 16th century has not survived. Water was supplied to the fortress from a large cistern underneath the mosque and distributed through three wall-fountains, of which only one has remained.

A battalion of 400 Janissaries were stationed in the fortress, and large cannons were placed in the Halil Pasha Tower, the main tower on the waterfront. After a short while, a Venetian ship coming from the Black Sea, which ignored the order to halt by the commander of the fortress, Firuz Ağa, was bombarded and sunk. The cannons were later used until the second half of the 19th century to greet the sultan when he passed by by sea.

After the fall of Constantinople, the fortress served as a customs checkpoint. Rumelihisarı, which was designated to control the passage of ships through the strait, eventually lost its strategic importance when a second pair of fortresses was built further up the Bosphorus, where the strait meets the Black Sea. In the 17th century, it was used as a prison. Rumelihisarı was partly destroyed by an earthquake in 1509, but was repaired soon after. In 1746, a fire destroyed all the wooden parts in two of the main towers. The fortress was repaired by Sultan Selim III (1761-1807).

However, a new neighborhood was formed inside the fortress after it was abandoned in the 19th century. In 1953, the neighborhood was removed by the order of President Celal Bayar and an extensive restoration work began on May 16, 1955, which lasted until May 29, 1958. Older photographs show a series of seaside mansions along the fortress walls, none of which have come to our day. Their place is taken today by a two-lane coastal highway that was built immediately outside the fortress walls in the 1960s.

Since 1960 Rumelihisarı has been a museum and an open-air theater for various concerts at festivals during the summer months. The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge which spans the Bosporus is located close to the fortress, to the north. A museum was opened by the Ministry of Culture in the Saruca Paşa Tower following the restoration. An open-air auditorium was also built in the courtyard during this time. While this addition is often considered an innovative example of adaptive reuse, it is also criticized for having damaged the historic appearance of the fortress.

LOCATION SATELLITE MAP

WEB SITE : Rumelihisarı Museum

MORE INFO & CONTACT
E-Mail : hisarlarmuzesi@kultur.gov.tr
Phone : +90 212 263 5305
Fax : +90 212 265 0410

These scripts and photographs are registered under © Copyright 2017, respected writers and photographers from the internet. All Rights Reserved.

Sunday, January 22, 2017

GARİPÇE GENOESE CASTLE

Garipçe, Sarıyer - İstanbul - Turkey

GPS : 41°12'50.7"N 29°06'38.3"E / 41.214078, 29.110636

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Situated at the Black Sea entrance to the Bosphorus, Garipçe is one of Istanbul's quaintest villages. Boasting beautiful wooden Ottoman-era houses, a 500-year old Genoese castle and an old church, this small Sarıyer township lies just over 30 km from Taksim. Garipçe's name is derived from the Turkish word Garip, meaning "poor" or "miserable" due to the sense of isolation which used to be inherent in Istanbul's once near inaccessible furthest reaches.

Garipçe village comes from this isolated life the village had lived for a long time. However, today it is very easy to reach the village by your car or the bus that comes by every 35 minutes. These days, Garipçe can be easily reached by bus or car from Istanbul city centre, and is a popular day trip for locals who come here to enjoy a village style breakfast or sea-fresh fish dinner from one of the famous seafood restaurants in the area.

The center of the village, resembling a traditional village circle, stands right on the shore. Here Fish Restaurants. The place, in which businessmen, authors, many researchers from academia have become regulars, is a family restaurant that does not serve alcohol. They offer daily fish choices that they catch in their own boats. In the summer there are usually pilchards, scorpion fish, horse mackerel and striped red mullet. In the winter there is red mullet, turbot, bluefish, bonito, large bonito and anchovy.

Garipçe Village, with its residents almost entirely from the Black Sea region, has managed to preserve its nature and ambiance. One reason for this situation is that the village is a protected area. The town centre is home to interesting examples of Ottoman village architecture and has a scattering of tea houses and restaurants. The surroundings are dominated by beautiful forested areas, making Garipçe a popular place for cycling or hiking.

Immediately on the left, stands the 500 years old Genoese castle. The castle still survives with its arched walls, stepped cuttings and cellars, although it looks uncared for and messy due to treasure seekers. The castle has a seascape panorama, and it is planned to be converted to an underwater museum in the future. One of Garipçe's most popular attractions is its castle, which, although not in the best state, nevertheless survives largely intact and enjoys amazing views over the sea.

One of the most important features of the village is the soft spring, which is said to be good for kidney stones. The spring is known as the Pilgrims’ Water or Hacı Süleyman Spring. The Seaside restaurant is just behind the spring.

Garipçe (strange or curious), or, anciently, Gyropolis, Town of Vultures. This too has a fortress built in 1773 by the Baron de Tott. Here King Phineus lived and here he was plagued by the Harpies who seized his food and befouled his table until he wasted away to a wraith; at last the Argonauts arrived and the winged sons of Boreas, Zetes and Kalais, taking pity on the ancient king, their brother-in-law, chased away the noxious creatures.

In return Phineus, who was a prophet, advised them about the rest of their journey and especially about how to avoid the baleful Symplegades. These, indeed, were clearly visible from his very palace, two great rocks at the mouth of the Bosphorus, one on either side, which were supposed to clash together with great rapidity and violence, thus making it very dangerous if not impossible for ships to enter or leave the strait.

Phineus told the Argonauts to let loose a dove which would fly between them; if it was caught, they were to give up their journey, but if it got through safely, they were to wait till the rocks opened once more and then row their hardest. The Symplegades just shaved off the tailfeathers of the dove and slightly damaged the stern-works of the Argo. The Symplegades, the Clashing Rocks, were also called Cyanean, the Blue Rocks, or in Turkish Öreke Taşı, the Distaff Rock or Midwife’s Stool.

The European one is a striking feature at the very mouth of the Bosphorus, formerly some 100 metres offshore at Rumeli Feneri, the Rumelian Lighthouse. There is a tiny village here and the remains of a fort built in 1769 by a Greek engineer. The Rock, which is now joined to the shore by a concrete mole, is about 20 metres high and something less than 200 metres long, divided by deep fissures into several parts. On the highest plateau stands what is left of the socalled Pillar of Pompey. “The ascent to this peak,” says Gyllius, “is not open except by one approach, and this, extremely narrow, so that one must climb up on all fours.”

Nowadays there are two approaches, one slightly easier than the other, but both disagreeable enough for one who is terrified of heights. The reward of intrepidity is a fine view of the Black Sea and the Bosphorus, and the base of Pompey’s column. It is not really a column base but an ancient altar, decorated with a garlanded ram’s head and other reliefs now much worn; it once had a Latin inscription, no longer legible, the transcription and interpretation of which are matters of discussion.

Certainly neither altar nor column had anything to do with Pompey, and we do not know who first gave it this misleading name: it was after Gyllius’ time evidently, since he does not mention it. He thought the altar was probably a remnant of the shrine to Apollo which Dionysius of Byzantium says the Romans erected on one of the Cyanean Rocks. The column itself, with its Corinthian capital, toppled down in April 1680 and had utterly disappeared by 1800. There is now a simple fish restaurant on the Rock, with its tables set out on the breakwater at the very end of the Bosphorus.

the Karipçe and Poyraz forts were not left the way Baron de Tott had built them and were redesigned with the contributions of Toussaint in 1778, Lafitte-Clavé in 1785 and General Sébastiani (who later became the French ambassador) in 1807. The fort of Karipçe as we see it today presents itself as sort of demi-lune, which form was largely determined by the shape of the rocky plateau on which it was built. Its guns fired in three different directions. On group aimed north in the direction of the Black Sea.

Here an attack at close range was difficult because of reefs out in the sea in front of the work. Seven guns fired directly south and effectively covered the small cove where the village is situated, one of the few places where as small force could venture a landing with the help of small boats. The main function of the fort, however, was to close the Strait in collaboration with its twin on the Asian side, the Fort of Poyraz. For this purpose an impressive battery was built on the extreme southern end of the promontory, able to fire from three levels. There is an open upper platform with guns firing through massive battlements.

The middle level is an imposing heavily-vaulted casemate with guns firing through large embrasures. Due to the terrain this casemate is divided in three sections, each firing in a slightly different direction. At a much lower level is the third battery, where the guns could also fire in three different directions. At present it is not yet entirely clear which part of the fort was built after Baron de Tott’s plans and which was added later. The first impression is that the great casemate is of de Tott’s time and that the lower platform was added later.

It also appears that the open upper platform was added later, or at least modified from an embankment for rifle fire into a battery for guns. The bricks used for its battlements are rather different from those used in the casemate.

The latter are the typically thin tile-like bricks of the 18th century, those on the upper platform are much thicker and of different structure. In the casemate a change was made during the Cold War period, when a single large opening was made in reinforced concrete, allowing one very large and modern gun to fire from it, aiming directly at the entrance to the Bosphorus from the Black sea.

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