The tower, which in the past served not only as a lighthouse but also as a customs house, a retirement home for naval officers, a quarantine station or an optical telegraph, is now equipped with a restaurant.
Leander Tower or Girl's Tower
Different legends are responsible for the name. According to an ancient story from the Dardanelles, Leander is said to have swum nightly through this strait to his lover named Hero. At one point his torch went out, which meant that he was no longer able to orientate himself sufficiently and consequently drowned. After finding her lover, Hero also drowned herself.
The lighthouse is also called the Maiden's Tower. According to a Turkish legend, a fortune teller announced a poisonous death to a princess, whereupon her father locked her in the tower. The princess died of a snake bite after the animal came to the girl via a fruit basket.
Historical function
Due to attacks on Constantinople , a chain was stretched across the Bosphorus. One end was attached to this lighthouse. The other end of the chain was secured to the tower of the Mangana Palace.
Tourist attraction
Whether visitors want to come for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a drink at the bar, they can enjoy a fascinating view of the city. Moreover, for lovers, a separate candlelight dinner can be arranged.
