Fatih Ö.
Google
Located at the northern end of the Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Square), the German Fountain is a stunning piece of neo-Byzantine architecture that you shouldn't miss while walking between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Here is the essential info for your visit:
• 🎫 Entrance Fee: FREE. Since it is a public monument located in the square, there is no ticket or entrance fee. You can admire it and take photos at any time.
• ⏰ Opening Hours: Open 24/7. As it is an open-air monument in a public square, you can visit it whenever you like. However, it is most beautiful during daylight when you can see the golden mosaics inside the dome.
• 📜 History: This gazebo-style fountain was a gift from German Emperor Wilhelm II to Sultan Abdulhamid II and the city of Istanbul to commemorate his second visit in 1898. It was manufactured in Germany and transported piece by piece to Istanbul, then assembled in its current location in 1900.
• ✨ Architecture: Look up inside the dome! You will see magnificent golden mosaics featuring the tughra (monogram) of Sultan Abdulhamid II and the symbol of Emperor Wilhelm II, symbolizing the alliance between the two empires.
• 🚋 How to Get There: It is very easy to find. Take the T1 Tram line to the Sultanahmet station. From there, it’s a 2-minute walk towards the Hippodrome area.
• 📍 Location: It stands right across from the Sultan Ahmed Tomb and very close to the Egyptian Obelisk.